Access Control Permit Requirements in Lubbock, Texas

# Access Control Permit Requirements in Lubbock, Texas **Quick Answer:** Access control installations in Lubbock, Texas require a low-voltage electrical permit for commercial projects. Contractors must hold a Texas DPS Private Security Bureau Class B license to legally install and service electronic access control systems. ## Do I Need a Permit for Access Control in Lubbock? Lubbock requires electrical permits for access control installations that involve: - **Commercial building installations** - All business access control systems - **New construction projects** - Badge readers, card access, electronic locks - **Hardwired door hardware modifications** - Electric strikes, maglocks - **Integration with fire alarm systems** - Systems that unlock doors on alarm - **Network infrastructure additions** - POE readers and controllers Residential access control typically falls under low-voltage exemptions unless it involves modifications to the electrical panel or integration with life safety systems. ## Permit Application Process Lubbock uses the **CSS Portal** (Community Self-Service) for permit applications. The process involves: ### Step 1: Submit Application Online Access the CSS Portal through the City of Lubbock Development Services website. Create an account and select "Electrical Permit" for access control work. ### Step 2: Required Documents - **Site plans** showing reader and controller locations - **Electrical drawings** with wire runs and power requirements - **Door schedule** identifying access-controlled openings - **Equipment specifications** and cut sheets - **Contractor license verification** (DPS Class B) ### Step 3: Plan Review Commercial access control plans undergo review by the electrical inspector. Expect 3-5 business days for standard reviews. Complex projects may require additional time. ### Step 4: Permit Issuance and Fees Permit fees in Lubbock are based on project valuation: - **Minimum fee:** $50 - **Standard commercial:** Based on percentage of project cost - **Additional inspections:** $50 per re-inspection if needed ## Texas State Licensing Requirements ### DPS Private Security Bureau License All access control contractors in Texas must register with the **Texas Department of Public Safety Private Security Bureau**: - **Class B License** - Required for companies installing access control - **Individual Registration** - Each technician needs PSB registration - **Background Check** - Required for all registered employees - **Insurance Requirements** - General liability and workers comp ### License Exemptions The following may be exempt from PSB licensing: - In-house maintenance staff working for their employer - Licensed electricians installing basic electric strikes (without monitoring) - IT staff installing badge readers on existing network infrastructure However, any system with monitoring or alarm capabilities requires PSB licensing regardless of other credentials. ## Common Access Control Permit Requirements ### Door Hardware Modifications When access control requires modifying existing doors: - Electric strike installations need electrical permit - Magnetic lock installations require fire code review - Exit devices must maintain egress compliance per IBC - ADA accessibility requirements must be maintained ### Fire Alarm Integration Access control systems that interact with fire alarms need additional review: - Door holders releasing on alarm require fire marshal approval - Stairwell doors with access control need pressurization compliance - Elevator recall integration requires separate permit ### Network Requirements POE-based access control systems may require: - Low-voltage permit for cable installation - IT infrastructure coordination with building management - UPS and backup power provisions ## Inspection Requirements Lubbock inspectors verify: - **Electrical connections** - Proper wiring and grounding - **Door hardware function** - Secure locking and egress compliance - **System programming** - Lockout modes and fire alarm integration - **Code compliance** - IBC egress requirements met ## Pro Tips for Lubbock Access Control Projects 1. **Use CSS Portal Early** - Create your account and upload documents before submitting to speed approval 2. **Coordinate with Fire Marshal** - Any doors in fire-rated assemblies need early review 3. **Schedule Inspections Strategically** - Request inspection after door hardware is installed but before concealing wiring 4. **Keep DPS Registration Current** - Expired registrations can delay permit approval ## Fees Summary | Permit Type | Fee | |------------|-----| | Minimum Electrical | $50 | | Commercial (valuation-based) | Varies | | Re-inspection | $50 | | Plan Review (complex) | Additional | ## Processing Timeline - **Standard Review:** 3-5 business days - **Complex Commercial:** 5-10 business days - **Inspection Scheduling:** Usually within 24-48 hours ## Contact Information **City of Lubbock Development Services** - CSS Portal: Available through City website - Phone: (806) 775-2087 - Address: 1625 13th Street, Lubbock, TX 79401 **Texas DPS Private Security Bureau** - Website: www.dps.texas.gov/psb - Phone: (512) 424-7293 ## Stay Ahead of Permit Activity Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Lubbock before they reach bid boards? [LVN Signal](https://www.lowvoltagenation.com/signal) monitors permit activity across Texas and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed. → [Explore Signal](https://www.lowvoltagenation.com/signal) --- *Last verified: January 2026. Requirements may change. Contact the City of Lubbock Development Services for current requirements.*