Security Camera Permit Requirements in Los Angeles County, California

Quick Answer: In unincorporated Los Angeles County, low voltage security camera installations require an electrical permit through LA County Public Works Building and Safety. Residential homeowners installing their own cameras typically don't need permits, but commercial projects and contractor-performed work over $500 require proper licensing and permits.

Understanding LA County vs. City Jurisdiction

Los Angeles County covers a vast area with over 80 incorporated cities, each with their own permit requirements. This guide covers the unincorporated areas of LA County—those governed directly by the County rather than a city.

Important: If your project is within city limits (like the City of Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, etc.), you'll need to follow that city's specific permit process. For the City of Los Angeles, see our Los Angeles City Security Camera Permit Guide.

When Do You Need a Permit?

According to Title 27 of the Los Angeles County Electrical Code (LACEC), permits apply to the installation, alteration, reconstruction, or repair of any electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment.

Permit Generally NOT Required

• Homeowner-installed wireless security cameras
• Battery-powered or solar camera systems
• Plug-and-play systems using existing outlets
• Minor repairs to existing systems

Permit Required

• Installation or alteration of low-voltage systems including security alarms and surveillance
• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Commercial surveillance system installations
• Hardwired camera systems requiring new wiring
• Systems integrated with fire or burglar alarms

LA County Electrical Permit Types

LA County offers different permit types based on project complexity:

Permit Type	Use Case	Plan Review
Express Electrical Permit	Simple residential projects	Not required
Simple Electrical Permit	Small projects, outlet replacement	Not required
Complex Electrical Permit	Major upgrades, new installations	Required

Most security camera installations fall under the Simple or Express permit category unless they're part of a larger commercial system.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

California requires proper licensing for security system installations performed by contractors.

CSLB License Requirements

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires licensing for projects over $500 in labor and materials:

• C-7 Low Voltage Systems: For security systems, CCTV, and communication wiring (91 volts or less)
• C-10 Electrical: For work requiring higher voltage or fire alarm integration

BSIS Alarm Company Operator License

If your security camera system connects to monitoring services, the installing company must hold a Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Alarm Company Operator license.

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

How to Apply for Permits

Online via EPIC-LA

EPIC-LA is Los Angeles County's online system for managing permits and inspections. Through this portal you can:

• Submit permit applications online
• Upload electronic plans and documentation
• Track permit status
• Schedule inspections
• Pay fees electronically

Contact Information

LA County Department of Public Works - Building and Safety Division

• Website: dpw.lacounty.gov/building-and-safety
• Permit Portal: permits.lacounty.gov
• Phone: Call your local Building and Safety office to confirm permit requirements

Required Documentation

For electrical permit applications, prepare:

• Completed Electrical Permit Application Form
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Electrical load calculations (for complex systems)
• Contractor license information
• Property owner authorization (if applicable)

Fees and Timeline

Item	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Express electrical permit	$75-$150	Same day
Simple electrical permit	$100-$250	1-3 business days
Complex electrical permit with plan check	$250-$600+	5-15 business days
Inspection fee	Included in permit	Schedule after installation

Note: Fees vary based on project scope. Contact LA County Building and Safety for current fee schedules.

Permit Expiration

Under LA County code, permits expire if:

• Work is not started within 12 months of permit issuance
• Work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days

Alarm Permit Requirements

If your security camera system is integrated with a monitored alarm that dispatches emergency response, you may need an alarm permit. Requirements vary by jurisdiction within LA County:

Unincorporated LA County

Contact the LA County Sheriff's Department for alarm registration requirements in unincorporated areas.

City of Los Angeles (for reference)

The City of Los Angeles requires alarm permits under Section 103.206 of the Municipal Code. Operating without a permit is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000.

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

Homeowners in unincorporated LA County can often install basic security cameras without permits if:

• No new electrical circuits are required
• The system uses existing power outlets
• Installation doesn't modify the building structure

However, you must still comply with California privacy laws:

• Two-party consent: Audio recording requires consent from all parties
• Visible placement: Cameras in public-facing areas should be visible with CCTV signage
• Neighbor privacy: Cameras cannot record private areas of neighboring properties

Commercial Projects

Commercial security camera installations in LA County typically require:

• Electrical permit for any hardwired installation
• Licensed C-7 or C-10 contractor
• BSIS-licensed company if connecting to monitoring
• Compliance with employee notification requirements (Labor Code Section 435)
• Proper signage indicating surveillance

Pro Tips for LA County Installations

1. Verify jurisdiction first: Use the LA County Address Locator to confirm whether your property is in an unincorporated area or within city limits.
2. Check HOA restrictions: Many LA County communities have HOA rules about exterior camera placement, wiring visibility, and equipment mounting.
3. Plan for coastal conditions: Coastal areas of LA County experience salt air corrosion. Specify marine-grade housings for outdoor cameras near the beach.
4. Consider earthquake bracing: Secure camera mounts properly—LA County's seismic activity can dislodge improperly installed equipment.
5. Document your system: Keep records of camera locations, wiring diagrams, and permit documentation for future reference and resale.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Los Angeles County before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related California Permit Guides

• California Low Voltage License Requirements
• Los Angeles City Security Camera Permit Requirements
• San Diego Security Camera Permit Requirements
• San Francisco Security Camera Permit Requirements

Summary

Security camera permit requirements in unincorporated Los Angeles County depend on installation complexity. Simple residential systems often don't need permits, while commercial projects and hardwired installations typically require an electrical permit through LA County Public Works. Always verify your property's jurisdiction and use licensed contractors for professional installations.

For specific questions about your project, contact LA County Building and Safety or visit permits.lacounty.gov.