Security Camera Permit Requirements in McKinney, Texas

Quick Answer: In McKinney, Texas, standalone security camera installations do not require a city permit. However, any alarm system (including integrated surveillance with monitoring) requires a permit from the McKinney Police Department. Annual fees are $50 for residential and $100 for commercial permits. Operating without a valid permit can result in fines up to $500 per day. All contractors installing security cameras must hold a Texas Class B Security Services Contractor license.

When Is a Permit Required?

McKinney City Ordinance requires permits for alarm systems that summon law enforcement:

Permit Required

• Monitored alarm systems: Any system that transmits a signal intended to summon law enforcement
• Audible alarms: Systems that emit audible signals indicating an alarm condition
• Visual alarms: Systems with visual indicators intended to alert authorities
• Electronic signals: Any remote electronic transmission to summon response

Generally Exempt

• Standalone cameras: Security cameras that only record locally
• Self-monitored systems: DIY systems with no automatic police dispatch

Texas Contractor Licensing Requirements

Texas law requires all professional security camera installers to be licensed by the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau.

Required License: Class B Security Services Contractor

• Covers video surveillance, alarm systems, and electronic access control
• Both company and individual technicians must be licensed
• Network video systems are classified as "alarm systems" under Texas law

For complete details on obtaining your Texas security contractor license, see our comprehensive guide: Low Voltage License Texas

McKinney Alarm Permit Application Process

Step 1: Apply Online or By Mail

Online:

Register through the official portal:
alarmpermit.mckinneytexas.org

By Mail:

City of McKinney Alarm Program
2200 Taylor Burk Dr
McKinney, TX

Step 2: Provide Required Information

• Property address
• Property owner/tenant contact information
• Keyholder/responder information (must be able to reach site within 45 minutes)
• Alarm company information
• Type of alarm system

Step 3: Submit Payment

• Residential: $50 annually
• Commercial: $100 annually

Contact Information

McKinney Police Department - Alarm Unit
2200 Taylor Burk Dr
McKinney, TX
Phone: (972) 547-2820
Website: mckinneytexas.org/474/Alarm-Permits

Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost
Residential Alarm Permit (Annual)	$50
Commercial Alarm Permit (Annual)	$100
Permit Validity	12 months
Violation Fine (per day)	Up to $500

Important Requirements

Keyholder Requirement

Each alarm permit must designate a keyholder/responder who:

• Can reach the alarm site within 45 minutes
• Has access to the alarm site
• Knows the alarm system code
• Has authority to approve repairs to the alarm system

Non-Transferable Permits

McKinney alarm permits are non-transferable. If you move, you must obtain a new permit for the new alarm location.

Permit Validity

Under City Ordinance 2018-03-024, operating an alarm system without a valid permit is an offense. Permits become invalid if they are denied, revoked, not renewed, or expired.

Pro Tips for McKinney Security Camera Projects

Based on contractor experience in the McKinney market:

• Growing suburb: McKinney is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, with strong demand for new construction security installations.
• 45-minute keyholder rule: Help clients identify appropriate keyholders who can respond within the required timeframe.
• Non-transferable: When clients relocate within McKinney, they need new permits - cannot transfer existing ones.
• Historic downtown: Projects in the historic district may have additional aesthetic considerations for camera placement.
• Collin County integration: McKinney's Collin County location means clients may have properties across multiple jurisdictions with different permit requirements.

McKinney Municipal Code Reference

Alarm system regulations are codified in Chapter 10 - ALARMS of the McKinney Code of Ordinances.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Plano, Texas
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Frisco, Texas
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Low Voltage License Texas

Last updated: January 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements may change—always verify current regulations with the City of McKinney and the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau before beginning work.