Security Camera Permit Requirements in Macon, Georgia

Quick Answer: Macon-Bibb County, Georgia does not require permits for standard security camera installations on private property. However, businesses with alcohol licenses must comply with mandatory security camera requirements under Ordinance No. O-21-0019. All contractors must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license. The Bibb County Sheriff's Office operates Operation Safer Together, a voluntary camera registration program.

When Are Permits Required?

Most security camera installations in Macon-Bibb County do not require permits. Standard CCTV systems fall under low-voltage work and are typically exempt from building permit requirements.

Situations That May Require Permits

• Installations requiring electrical work beyond low-voltage circuits
• Construction projects exceeding $2,500 total value
• Commercial projects involving conduit through fire-rated assemblies
• Systems integrated with monitored alarm panels

Typically Exempt From Permits

• Standard residential camera systems
• Commercial IP camera installations
• Wireless camera systems
• Camera upgrades and replacements

Alcohol Business Security Camera Requirements

Effective July 1, 2021, Macon-Bibb County Ordinance No. O-21-0019 mandates security cameras for certain alcohol-licensed businesses.

Businesses Required to Have Security Cameras

• Package stores (businesses selling alcoholic beverages to go)
• Bars (businesses deriving 75%+ of revenue from on-premises alcohol sales)
• Nightclubs

Inspection Requirements

To schedule a security camera system inspection for alcohol license compliance, contact Code Enforcement at (478) 803-0470.

Operation Safer Together

The Bibb County Sheriff's Office operates Operation Safer Together, a voluntary camera registration program modeled after Atlanta's Operation Shield.

How It Works

• Register exterior monitoring devices with the Sheriff's Office
• Registration takes less than one minute online
• Police do not have live access to your camera feed
• You choose what footage to share during investigations
• If a crime occurs nearby, investigators know who to contact for evidence

Privacy Protections

• No live stream monitoring of registered devices
• Information only accessible by Bibb County Sheriff's Office
• Registered device information is not disseminated publicly
• Unlike Atlanta's program, Macon does not allow real-time camera access

Georgia Contractor Licensing

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

License Types for Security Camera Work

License	Code	Scope
Low Voltage Unrestricted	LVU	All low voltage work including cameras, alarms, telecom
Low Voltage General	LVG	Security cameras, intercoms, sound systems, network cabling
Low Voltage Alarm	LVA	Alarm systems (cameras when integrated with alarms)

License Requirements

• Minimum one year of experience in low-voltage work
• Pass state licensing examination
• Three letters of reference
• Background check
• Submit through GOALS online portal

Georgia Privacy Laws

Security camera installations must comply with Georgia Code §16-11-62:

• Cameras must be in plain sight in public and private settings
• Cannot record in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy
• Bathrooms, locker rooms, and changing areas are prohibited
• Georgia is a one-party consent state for audio recordings
• Businesses must post surveillance notices for employees and customers

Installation Process

Step 1: Verify Contractor Licensing

Confirm your installer holds a valid Georgia LVU or LVG license.

Step 2: Site Assessment

Professional installers evaluate camera placement, coverage areas, and infrastructure requirements.

Step 3: Installation

Complete installation, configure recording systems, and test all camera views.

Step 4: Alcohol Business Inspection (If Applicable)

For alcohol-licensed businesses, schedule inspection with Code Enforcement at (478) 803-0470.

Step 5: Register with Operation Safer Together

Consider registering cameras to support community safety through the Bibb County Safe portal.

Estimated Costs

Service	Typical Cost
Residential system (4-8 cameras)	$1,200 - $3,500
Commercial system (8-16 cameras)	$3,500 - $10,000
Camera registration	Free
Code Enforcement inspection	Contact for fees

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• No permits typically required
• Focus on entry points, driveways, and yards
• Consider Operation Safer Together registration
• Wireless systems popular for easier installation

Commercial Projects

• Alcohol-licensed businesses must comply with Ordinance O-21-0019
• Must post surveillance notices for employees and customers
• Inspection required for alcohol license compliance
• Consider enterprise-grade equipment for reliability

Pro Tips for Macon Installations

Alcohol Business Compliance: If you operate a package store, bar, or nightclub, ensure your security camera system meets ordinance requirements before your alcohol license inspection.

Operation Safer Together: Registering with the Bibb County Sheriff's Office demonstrates community engagement and helps investigators solve crimes near your property without compromising your privacy.

Climate Considerations: Macon's humid summers require outdoor cameras rated IP66 or higher. Use weatherproof junction boxes for exterior installations.

Documentation: Maintain records of camera locations and retention policies. This documentation helps when responding to police requests for footage.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Georgia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

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Related Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Columbus, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Augusta, Georgia
• Browse All Permit Guides

Contact Information

Macon-Bibb Building and Fire Safety Department
Phone: (478) 803-0466
Email: buildingpermits@maconbibb.us
Permit Process

Macon-Bibb Code Enforcement
Phone: (478) 803-0470
For alcohol business camera inspections

Operation Safer Together Registration
Bibb County Safe

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