Security Camera Permit Requirements in Lexington, Kentucky

Installing security cameras in Lexington-Fayette County involves understanding both camera installation requirements and the city's comprehensive alarm system registration program. While cameras alone don't require permits, monitored systems connected to police dispatch fall under Lexington's alarm ordinance. Here's what contractors need to know.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

For cameras alone, generally no. Stand-alone security camera systems in Lexington typically don't require permits. However, if cameras are part of a monitored alarm system that can alert emergency services, the alarm system must be registered with the Lexington Police Department. All businesses and residences with monitored alarm systems need an Alarm User Permit.

When Are Permits Required for Security Camera Systems?

Lexington-Fayette County requires permits or registration when:

• Camera system is part of a monitored alarm that dispatches police
• System includes audible alarm components
• Installation requires electrical permits (line voltage work)
• Cameras are part of new construction or major renovation
• Installation involves building permit-required modifications

Generally No Permit Required

• Stand-alone surveillance camera systems
• Self-monitored camera systems (app-based viewing only)
• Low-voltage camera installations
• NVR/DVR equipment installation
• Residential camera systems without alarm monitoring

What Are Lexington's Alarm Registration Requirements?

If your security camera system connects to a monitored alarm, the Lexington Police Department requires registration:

Alarm User Permit

Under City Ordinance 13-72.4:

• Requirement: All residences and businesses with alarm systems must register
• Fee: $15 annual administrative fee
• Validity: 12 months from issue date
• Separate permits: Each alarm site requires its own permit

False Alarm Penalties

• Unregistered systems: $100 fine per false alarm response
• Registered systems: Progressive fine structure for excessive false alarms

2024 Update: New Billing System

Effective August 2024, Lexington Police uses CryWolf Services for alarm permitting:

• Existing permit holders: No action required, billing transitions automatically
• New registrations: Apply through CryWolf portal
• Phone: (833) 566-7734
• Email: lexingtonky@alarm-billing.com

What Contractor Licensing Does Lexington Require?

Lexington-Fayette County has specific alarm business licensing requirements:

Alarm Business License

Under Ordinance 13-71:

• Required for anyone conducting an alarm business in Lexington
• Application fee: $15 (nonrefundable)
• Review period: 30 days for approval/denial
• License number assigned and must appear in all advertisements
• Not transferable between businesses
• Must be posted in conspicuous place at business location

Contractor Registration

Lexington requires general contractor registration for work in the city. This is simpler than Louisville's licensing—primarily a registration process.

For comprehensive state requirements, see our Kentucky Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits and Registration?

Alarm Business License Application

1. Obtain application from Alarm Administrator
2. Submit completed form with $15 fee
3. Await 30-day review period
4. Upon approval, present notification to Division of Revenue
5. Receive license with permanent license number

Alarm User Permit (for customers)

1. Register online through CryWolf Services or by phone
2. Pay $15 annual fee
3. Receive permit valid for 12 months
4. Renew annually

Contact Information:

• False Alarm Reduction Unit: (859) 258-3577
• Email: alarms@lexingtonpolice.ky.gov
• CryWolf Billing: (833) 566-7734
• Mailing Address: Lexington Police Department, FARU, 150 E. Main Street, Lexington, KY 40507

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Service	Fee	Timeline
Alarm Business License	$15	Up to 30 days
Alarm User Permit (annual)	$15	Immediate upon payment
Contractor Registration	Varies	5-10 business days
False Alarm (unregistered)	$100 per incident	N/A

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

Home installations in Lexington typically:

• Require no permit for cameras only
• Need alarm user permit if connected to monitoring
• Must respect neighbor privacy (no pointing at adjacent properties)
• Follow Kentucky video surveillance laws

Commercial Security Cameras

Business installations may require:

• Alarm business license for the installer
• Alarm user permit for monitored systems
• Coordination with building management
• Compliance with any landlord or HOA requirements
• Privacy policy considerations for employee monitoring

Multi-Family and HOA Properties

Additional considerations:

• Common area cameras may need property management approval
• Individual unit monitoring follows residential rules
• Centralized systems need proper alarm registration

Pro Tips for Lexington Security Camera Contractors

• Get your alarm business license first: $15 and 30 days—don't skip this step if doing monitored systems
• Educate customers on registration: Help clients register their alarm permits to avoid $100 false alarm fines
• Lexington = Fayette County: It's a merged city-county government—same rules throughout
• License number in ads: Required by ordinance—include it on business cards, vehicles, and marketing
• CryWolf transition: The new 2024 system streamlines registration—leverage this for customer service
• False alarm reduction: Quality installation and customer training reduce callbacks and fines

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security projects hit permits in Lexington before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Kentucky and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Lexington

• Fire Alarm Permits in Lexington
• Access Control Permits in Lexington
• Structured Cabling Permits in Lexington

Last updated: January 2025. Verify current requirements with Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government before bidding projects.