Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Los Angeles County, California

Installing structured cabling systems in unincorporated Los Angeles County requires understanding local electrical code exemptions and state licensing requirements. This guide covers permit requirements, exemptions, and the application process for data and network cabling installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Structured Cabling in LA County?

Generally no for low-voltage systems. Per LA County Electrical Code Section 82-3, private communication systems and low-voltage wiring under 25 volts are typically exempt from electrical permits. However, power supplies for these systems and commercial installations may require permits.

Permit Exemptions

LA County Electrical Code provides exemptions for:

• Private telephone, intercom, sound, and communication systems
• Electrical wiring operating at less than 25 volts
• Systems not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy
• Low-energy power, control, and signal circuits with output not exceeding 30 volts and 1,000 volt-amperes

Important: While the cabling itself may be exempt, a permit is required for the power supplies serving these systems.

When Permits ARE Required

Electrical permits are required for:

• Power supplies for communication and data systems
• Cable tray installations
• Projects involving structural modifications
• Work exceeding $200 in value (contractor licensing required)
• Installations penetrating fire-rated assemblies
• Integration with fire alarm or life safety systems

Contractor Licensing Requirements

California requires proper licensing for structured cabling work:

License Type	Issuing Agency	Scope
C-7 Low Voltage Systems	California CSLB	Systems under 91 volts
C-10 Electrical	California CSLB	All electrical including power supplies

For work exceeding $200 in value, the applicant must be a licensed contractor, registered maintenance electrician, homeowner, or authorized government representative.

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

LA County Permit Process (When Required)

Step 1: Determine If Permit Is Needed

Contact your local LA County Building and Safety office to confirm whether your project requires a permit based on scope and components.

Step 2: Access EPIC-LA

EPIC-LA is Los Angeles County's online permit management system. Create an account to:

• Apply for permits
• Submit plans for review
• Track permit status
• Schedule inspections

Step 3: Submit Application

Complete the electrical permit application describing:

• Work to be performed
• Location (street address, lot/block/tract)
• Equipment specifications

Permit Types:

• Electrical Permit (Simple): Small projects not requiring plan review
• Electrical Permit (Complex): Major projects requiring detailed plan review

Step 4: Inspections

Schedule inspections through EPIC-LA as work progresses.

Fees

Fee Type	Amount
Cable trays (per 100 ft or fraction)	$34.20
Other fees	Based on project scope

Contact the local Building and Safety office for complete fee schedules.

Permit Validity and Expiration

Timeframe	Requirement
12 months	Work must start or permit expires
180 days	Work cannot lapse this long
180 days	Extensions available upon written request

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Structured Cabling

• Most home network installations exempt from permits
• Low-voltage data cabling typically doesn't require permits
• Power supply for systems may need permit
• Homeowners can do their own work in many cases

Commercial Structured Cabling

• Cable tray installations require permits ($34.20 per 100 ft)
• Must use C-7 or C-10 licensed contractors
• Power supplies always require permits
• Plan check may be required for complex installations
• Data center builds need full permit review

Code Compliance

All structured cabling must comply with:

• LA County Electrical Code (Title 27)
• California Electrical Code
• NEC Chapter 8 (Communication Circuits)
• Title 24 California Building Standards
• TIA/EIA cabling standards

Service Areas

LA County Building and Safety serves:

• Unincorporated Los Angeles County areas
• Contract cities using county services

For incorporated cities, contact the specific city's building department.

Contact Information

LA County Building and Safety

• Website: dpw.lacounty.gov/building-and-safety
• Online Permits: EPIC-LA Portal
• Electrical Permits: LA County Electrical Permits

California CSLB

• Phone: (800) 321-2752
• Website: cslb.ca.gov

Pro Tips from the Field

• Verify jurisdiction: Confirm whether you're in unincorporated LA County or a city with its own building department.
• Separate power supply permits: Even when cabling is exempt, the power supply may need its own permit.
• Document exemptions: Keep equipment specs showing systems operate under 25V for exemption verification.
• Cable tray budgeting: Factor in $34.20 per 100 ft for cable tray permit fees on commercial jobs.
• Start permits early: Don't let permits expire—they're invalid if work doesn't start within 12 months.
• Use EPIC-LA: The online system streamlines applications and inspection scheduling.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when structured cabling 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 Permit Guides

• Los Angeles (City) Structured Cabling Permit Requirements
• San Diego Structured Cabling Permit Requirements
• San Francisco Structured Cabling Permit Requirements
• California Low Voltage License Guide