Access Control Permit Requirements in Macon, Georgia

Quick Answer: Macon-Bibb County does not typically require separate permits for standalone access control installations. However, systems with electromagnetic locks on egress doors must comply with Georgia Building Code requirements. Contractors must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVG or LVU). Submit permit applications through the Community Connect online portal when required.

When Are Permits Required?

Access control systems in Macon-Bibb County fall under different requirements based on complexity:

Permits Typically Required

• Systems with electromagnetic locks on means of egress doors
• Integration with fire alarm systems
• Commercial construction involving access control
• Projects exceeding $2,500 in value
• Systems requiring electrical work beyond low voltage

Permits Generally Not Required

• Standalone card readers and keypads
• Battery-powered electronic locks
• Low-voltage wiring for basic access control
• Intercom systems without electric strikes
• Residential smart locks and keypad deadbolts

Georgia Contractor Licensing

Any contractor installing access control for compensation must hold a valid license from the Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors.

License Types for Access Control

License	Code	Access Control Scope
Low Voltage General	LVG	Access control, intercoms, card readers, network cabling
Low Voltage Alarm	LVA	Access control integrated with alarm systems
Low Voltage Unrestricted	LVU	All low voltage work without limitations

License Requirements

• Minimum one year of installation experience
• Pass state licensing examination
• Three letters of reference
• Background check
• Submit through GOALS online portal

Electromagnetic Lock Code Requirements

Macon-Bibb County follows the Georgia Building Code based on the IBC. Electromagnetic locks on egress doors must meet specific safety requirements:

Permitted Occupancy Types

• Group A - Assembly
• Group B - Business
• Group E - Educational
• Group M - Mercantile
• Group R-1 - Hotels/Motels
• Group R-2 - Apartments

Required Safety Features

• Release hardware: Listed hardware with built-in switch to directly release the lock
• Operation: Readily operated with one hand under all lighting conditions
• Power failure: Loss of power must automatically unlock the door
• Fire alarm integration: Automatic unlock upon fire alarm activation
• Panic hardware: Where required, panic hardware must release electromagnetic lock

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Create Community Connect Account

Register with Community Connect to submit permit applications and schedule inspections online.

Step 2: Determine Requirements

Contact Macon-Bibb Building and Fire Safety at (478) 803-0466 to confirm requirements for your specific project.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

If permits are required, prepare:

• Current Georgia low voltage license
• System layout drawings
• Door schedule identifying hardware on egress doors
• Fire alarm integration details (if applicable)

Step 4: Submit Application

Submit through Community Connect or contact buildingpermits@maconbibb.us.

Step 5: Schedule Inspection

Request inspections online at maconbibbapps.com/inspectionscheduler or call (478) 803-0466. Submit by 4:00 PM for next business day service.

Fees and Timeline

Service	Typical Cost
Plan review submittal	$150
Low voltage permit (if required)	Based on valuation
Inspection	Included in permit

Timeline: Maximum plan review time is 5 business days for standard projects.

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• Most residential access control does not require permits
• Smart locks and keypad deadbolts typically exempt
• Licensed contractor recommended for hardwired systems

Commercial Projects

• Electromagnetic locks on egress doors require code compliance
• Fire alarm integration may require additional review
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Community Connect portal streamlines the process

Pro Tips for Macon Access Control Projects

Community Connect: Register with the online portal early. Electronic submittal and tracking streamlines permits and inspections.

Fire Alarm Coordination: When integrating access control with fire alarms, coordinate early as fire alarm systems are deferred submittals in Macon-Bibb County.

Inspection Scheduling: Submit inspection requests by 4:00 PM for next-day service.

ISO Class 1 Department: Macon-Bibb Fire Department holds ISO Class 1 rating. Expect thorough inspections for fire alarm integrations.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Guides

• Access Control Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Columbus, Georgia
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Macon, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Macon, Georgia
• Browse All Permit Guides

Contact Information

Macon-Bibb Building and Fire Safety Department
3661 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite MB105
Macon, GA 31206
Phone: (478) 803-0466
Email: buildingpermits@maconbibb.us
Building Permits

Online Inspection Scheduler
maconbibbapps.com/inspectionscheduler

Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 195
Macon, GA 31210
Phone: (404) 424-9966
sos.ga.gov