Security Camera Permit Requirements in Little Rock, Arkansas

Planning to install security cameras or video surveillance systems in Little Rock, Arkansas? This guide covers permit requirements, contractor licensing, and the application process for CCTV, IP cameras, and video surveillance installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security cameras. Little Rock does not typically require permits for low voltage security camera installations that don't involve structural modifications or new electrical circuits. However, commercial installations with significant electrical work may require permits from the Planning and Development Office.

What Is Considered Security Camera Work?

Security camera installations in Little Rock include:

• CCTV analog camera systems
• IP network camera installations
• Video surveillance with NVR/DVR recording
• PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera systems
• Video doorbell and intercom systems
• License plate recognition (LPR) cameras
• Commercial video management systems

Little Rock Camera Registration Program

Little Rock offers a voluntary Camera Registration Program through Connect Little Rock:

• Purpose: Creates an interactive map of security cameras accessible only to Little Rock Police Department
• What it does: Enables investigators to know a camera is present and easily request video evidence
• What it doesn't do: Does NOT allow police access to your live video stream
• Cost: Free to register
• Benefit: Helps law enforcement investigate crimes in your area

This is a voluntary program, not a permit requirement.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Contact the Little Rock Planning and Development Office:

Permits Likely Required

• New electrical circuits: Line voltage work for power supplies
• Structural modifications: Pole installations or significant building modifications
• Commercial new construction: Part of overall building permit package
• Historic districts: Exterior modifications may need additional review

Typically Exempt

• Standalone camera systems: Low voltage installations without structural work
• PoE cameras: Powered over Ethernet on existing network
• Wireless cameras: Battery or solar powered
• Minor repairs: Replacement of existing equipment

Do You Need a State License for Security Cameras?

Arkansas has important exemptions for low voltage work under Ark. Code § 17-28-102(a)(3):

Installation Type	State License Required?
Standalone CCTV/IP cameras	No - Low voltage exempt
Cameras with local recording only	No - No monitoring services
Cameras integrated with alarm system	Yes - Class E Alarm License
Video verification alarm systems	Yes - Class E Alarm License

Arkansas Low Voltage Exemption

Low-voltage work for communication, including fire alarm systems, security systems, and environmental control is exempt from standard electrical licensing when performed exclusively for communication of data, voice, or other signaling purposes.

Class E Alarm License Requirements

If providing alarm monitoring services, you need a Class E license from Arkansas State Police:

• Manager requirement: NBFAA Level 2 or NICET Level 3 certification
• Exam required: Arkansas code, rules, and regulations
• Contact: (501) 618-8600

For complete Arkansas licensing requirements, see our Arkansas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Little Rock Permits?

Step 1: Contact Planning and Development

Visit the Little Rock Planning and Development Office to determine if permits are required for your specific project.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Site plans showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Electrical plans if line voltage work required
• Historic review application (if applicable)

Step 3: Submit Application

Submit permit application with required documents and fees.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections after installation completion for permitted work.

What Are the Permit Fees?

Permit Type	Fee
Electrical permit	Based on job value
Building permit	Based on valuation
Plan review	Additional for commercial

Contact: Little Rock Planning and Development
Website: littlerock.gov

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Projects

• Doorbell cameras: No permit typically required
• Home surveillance: Low voltage exempt from electrical licensing
• Historic homes: May need exterior modification review
• Consider camera registration program

Commercial Projects

• Retail surveillance: Document coverage for liability
• Parking lot cameras: Consider pole mounting permits
• New construction: Include in overall permit package
• Alarm integration: Requires Class E license

Arkansas Recording Laws for Security Cameras

• Video recording: Legal in public areas and property you control
• Audio recording: Arkansas is a one-party consent state
• Employee notification: Post notices in workplaces with surveillance
• Privacy areas: No cameras where privacy is expected

Pro Tips for Little Rock Security Camera Projects

• Register your cameras: The voluntary camera registration helps police investigations
• Check historic districts: Additional review may be required for exterior modifications
• Low voltage exempt: Most camera work doesn't require electrical licensing
• Document everything: Keep records even for exempt installations
• Alarm integration: If connecting to monitoring, get Class E license

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Little Rock before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Arkansas

• Arkansas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Permit for Security Cameras in Little Rock?

Generally no for standalone low voltage security cameras. Permits may be required for electrical work, structural modifications, or in historic districts. Contact Planning and Development to confirm.

What License Do I Need to Install Security Cameras in Arkansas?

For standalone video surveillance without alarm monitoring, no state license is required under the low voltage exemption (Ark. Code § 17-28-102). If integrating with alarm monitoring, you need a Class E Alarm License.

Should I Register My Cameras with Little Rock Police?

The Camera Registration Program is voluntary but recommended. It helps police locate cameras during investigations without giving them access to your live video feed.