🟡 STATE EXEMPTS, CITIES OVERRIDE: Texas state exempts low voltage work, but cities can override with local requirements.

Texas Occupations Code Section 1305.003(a)(12) Exemption

The Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act does NOT apply to the design, installation, erection, repair, or alteration of Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 remote control, signaling, or power-limited circuits, fire alarm circuits, optical fiber cables, or communications circuits, including raceways, as defined by the National Electrical Code.

State Exemption Covers:

• Class 1 Circuits: Remote control and signaling circuits per NEC
• Class 2 Circuits: Power-limited circuits ≤100VA
• Class 3 Circuits: Power-limited circuits ≤100W
• Fire Alarm Circuits: Detection and notification systems
• Communications Circuits: Telephone, data, video systems
• Optical Fiber Cables: Fiber optic installations
• Associated Raceways: Conduits and cable management

Section 1305.201 - Municipal Authority

Municipal and regional regulations may override state exemptions and impose additional licensing, permitting, or registration requirements for low voltage work. This authority allows cities to require licensing even for work exempt at the state level.

• Austin: Electrical permit required for low voltage installations
• Dallas: Low voltage contractor registration required
• Houston: Building permits required for certain low voltage work
• San Antonio: Municipal electrical licensing may apply
• Fort Worth: Local permitting requirements for low voltage systems
• El Paso: Municipal contractor licensing requirements

State-Exempt Low Voltage Systems:

• Security Systems: Burglar alarms, access control
• Fire Alarms: Detection and notification systems
• Communications: Telephone, intercom, public address
• Data/Network: Computer networks, structured cabling
• Audio/Visual: Sound systems, CCTV, video distribution
• Control Systems: Building automation, HVAC controls
• Signaling Circuits: Remote control and indication

Municipal Requirements May Apply To:

• Commercial Installations: Business and office buildings
• Multi-Family Housing: Apartments and condominiums
• Public Buildings: Schools, hospitals, government facilities
• Large Residential: Custom homes and estates
• Industrial Applications: Manufacturing and warehouses

• Registration Fee Protection: Cities cannot charge fees to "register" state electrical licenses
• Examination Protection: No municipal electrical exams required for state license holders
• Statewide Authority: State electrical license valid throughout Texas
• Building Permits: Still required regardless of license status

Recent Updates:

• NEC Adoption: Texas adopts revised National Electrical Code every three years after NFPA publication
• Municipal Enforcement: Increased enforcement of local low voltage requirements
• Permit Tracking: Enhanced digital permitting systems in major cities
• Compliance Monitoring: Regular updates to local requirements and enforcement
• Industry Standards: Updated references to NEC classifications and definitions

• Apprentice Electrician: Entry-level classification
• Journeyman Electrician: 4 years experience or equivalent
• Master Electrician: 2 years as journeyman plus additional requirements
• Electrical Contractor: Business licensing for electrical contracting
• Electrical Sign Contractor: Specialized sign installation
• Maintenance Electrician: Limited scope maintenance work

State and Local Costs:

• State License Fees: Varies by classification (if pursuing electrical license)
• Municipal Registration: $50-$500 depending on city
• Building Permits: $25-$200+ per project
• Inspection Fees: Additional fees for required inspections
• Business Registration: Local business license requirements
• Insurance: General liability often required by clients and cities

• Research Local Requirements: Check each city/county before starting work
• Maintain Documentation: Keep records of all permits and approvals
• Stay Current: Monitor changes in local ordinances and enforcement
• Consider State License: Provides protection from duplicate municipal licensing
• Professional Associations: Join local trade organizations for updates

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
920 Colorado Street
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 463-6599
Toll-Free: 1-800-803-9202
Website: tdlr.texas.gov

Contact your local building department for specific requirements:
• Building permit requirements
• Contractor registration
• Inspection procedures
• Local code amendments
• Fee schedules

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Texas low voltage work involves complex state exemptions and municipal override authority that vary significantly by jurisdiction. Requirements may change, and specific situations may require additional licensing or permits. Always consult with TDLR and local building departments for current requirements and compliance guidance. Last updated: January 2025.