Access Control Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, California

Quick Answer: Access control system installations in Los Angeles may require electrical permits through LADBS, depending on the scope and voltage. Contractors must hold an ACO (Alarm Company Operator) license from BSIS for burglar/security alarm work. Low-voltage systems under 25V may be exempt from permits, but commercial installations typically require proper permitting.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

In Los Angeles, installation or alteration of low-voltage systems like security alarms requires an electrical permit. However, exemptions may apply based on voltage and power levels.

Permits Generally Required For

• Commercial access control system installations
• New construction security system integration
• Systems requiring electrical work beyond low voltage thresholds
• Access control tied to fire alarm or life safety systems
• Large-scale enterprise access control deployments

Potential Exemptions

Per Section 82-3 of the Los Angeles County Electrical Code:

• Electrical wiring operating at less than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts
• Low-energy power, control, and signal circuits with rated output not more than 30 volts and 1,000 volt-amperes

Many access control systems operate within these low-voltage parameters and may qualify for exemptions. Contact LADBS to verify exemption eligibility for your specific project.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

California requires the ACO (Alarm Company Operator) license from BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Services) for burglar alarm and access control installation work.

License Types for Access Control

License Type	Issuing Agency	Scope
ACO (Alarm Company Operator)	BSIS	Burglar alarms, access control, monitoring
C-7 Low Voltage	CSLB	Low voltage systems (not fire detection)
C-10 Electrical	CSLB	All electrical including low voltage

ACO License Requirements

An Alarm Company Operator license is required for businesses that sell, install, monitor, maintain, service, or respond to alarm systems in California.

• Qualified Manager: Must have 4,000 hours (2 years) of paid experience in alarm company work
• Examination: Two-hour multiple-choice exam covering California law, Alarm Company Act, business management, and Power to Arrest
• Background Check: DOJ and FBI criminal history check via Live Scan fingerprinting
• Insurance: LLCs require $1 million general liability insurance
• License Duration: Valid for two years, renewable

Employee Certification (Alarm Agent)

Employees working under an ACO must be registered as Alarm Agents with BSIS. Requirements include:

• Background check
• Registration with BSIS
• Working under supervision of licensed ACO

For complete California licensing information, see our California Low Voltage License Guide.

How to Apply for an Access Control Permit

Step 1: Determine Permit Requirements

Review low-voltage exemptions. Many access control systems operate under 25V and may be exempt. For commercial work or systems integrated with other building systems, permits are typically required.

Step 2: Register for Angeleno Account

To use ePlanLA or PermitLA, register for an Angeleno account.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

For permitted work:

• Access control system plans and door schedules
• Wiring diagrams
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license information (ACO license number)

Step 4: Submit Permit Application

Express Permit: Simple projects meeting Express Permit Eligibility can use PermitLA without plan review.

Plan Check: Commercial projects typically require submission through ePlanLA.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive Permit

Fees are based on project valuation. Pay through the online system upon approval.

Step 6: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections before work completion or no later than 3 business days after. Penalties apply for failing to request inspections.

Contact Information

Department	Contact
LADBS	ladbs.org
Electrical Permits	LADBS Electrical
BSIS Licensing	bsis.ca.gov
BSIS Address	P.O. Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA 95798-9002

Permit Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost
Electrical Permit	Based on project valuation
ACO License Application	See BSIS fee schedule
ACO Renewal (biennial)	See BSIS fee schedule

Timeline Expectations

Stage	Typical Duration
Express Permit	Same day possible
Plan Check	2-4 weeks
ACO License (via BreEZe online)	Faster than mail
ACO License (by mail)	Add 2+ weeks

Local Registration Requirements

Local authorities in Los Angeles may require an alarm company operator to register locally and obtain a business permit in addition to the state ACO license. Check with the Los Angeles Office of Finance for business tax registration requirements.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Low-voltage systems often exempt from electrical permits
• Smart locks and basic keypads typically under 25V threshold
• ACO license still required for professional installation
• Retail stores selling alarm systems only do not need ACO license

Commercial Access Control

• Electrical permits typically required through LADBS
• Plans must comply with California Electrical Code
• LADBS verifies contractor licenses with CSLB/BSIS
• Inspections required—penalties for non-compliance
• ADA compliance required for access control at public entrances

Common Access Control Project Types

Typical access control work in Los Angeles includes:

• Card Reader Systems: Proximity, smart card, and mobile credentials
• Biometric Access: Fingerprint, facial recognition systems
• Video Intercom: Door stations with two-way communication
• Electric Locks: Maglocks, electric strikes, motorized locks
• Gate Access: Vehicle and pedestrian gate control
• Elevator Control: Floor access restriction systems
• Visitor Management: Lobby kiosks and credentialing

Pro Tips for Los Angeles Access Control Permits

Based on contractor experience in this jurisdiction:

• Know the voltage thresholds: Systems under 25V/50W may be exempt from permits
• ACO is required: You must have an Alarm Company Operator license from BSIS for access control work
• Apply via BreEZe: Online ACO applications through BreEZe are faster than mail
• Register locally: Check LA business permit requirements in addition to state licensing
• Request inspections timely: Penalties apply for late inspection requests
• Verify contractor credentials: LADBS checks licenses—ensure yours is current
• Plan for ADA: Commercial projects must address accessibility at controlled entrances

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Los Angeles before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across California and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Resources

• California Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• More Permit Guides