Security Camera Permit Requirements in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina

Quick Answer: Security camera installations in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina require permits and inspections when running cable through building structures. Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement processes permits for the Charlotte metropolitan area. While some low voltage systems may be exempt from licensed contractor requirements, permits and inspections are still required per NC General Statute.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

In Mecklenburg County, permits and inspections are required for each contractor performing work within the scope of State Building codes. Security camera projects typically need permits when:

• Running cables through walls, ceilings, or building infrastructure
• Installing conduit or cable pathways
• Commercial installations with multiple cameras
• Integrated systems combining CCTV with access control or alarms
• Systems requiring electrical connections beyond plug-in adapters

Low-Voltage Exemptions from Licensed Contractor Requirement

Some low-voltage systems may be exempt from licensed contractor requirements if ALL conditions are met:

• System is not required by NC State Building Code
• Control circuit is Class II or Class III per NEC
• System operates at voltage not exceeding 50 volts
• No installation in hazardous areas per NEC
• System is protected by circuit breaker, fuse, or current limiting device
• Failure would not create shock or fire hazard

Important: Even when licensing exemption applies, permits and inspections are still required.

North Carolina Contractor Licensing

Security camera installers need proper licensing:

NC Alarm Systems License

The NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board licenses contractors installing video surveillance for security purposes.

Requirements:

• Two years of experience OR Certified Alarm Technician Level I course
• Background check and references
• Must hold NC electrical contractor license

SP-LV License

The NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors issues SP-LV licenses for low voltage installations.

For complete licensing information, see our North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

Mecklenburg County Permit Application Process

Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement issues building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits as required by NC General Statute 160D-1110:

Step 1: Determine License Requirements

Electrical contractors must be licensed through the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Verify if low-voltage exemption applies to your project.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Site plans showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Wiring diagrams
• Contractor license verification

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply through the Mecklenburg County WebPermit system:

• Online Portal: Mecklenburg County Permitting
• Low Voltage Info: Low-Voltage Wiring Requirements
• Phone: 980-314-CODE

Step 4: Inspections

Schedule inspections when work is complete. Inspectors verify proper installation and code compliance.

Fees and Contact Information

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Notes
Residential Low Voltage	$50 - $100	Per project scope
Commercial Low Voltage	$100 - $300+	Based on valuation
Inspection Fee	Included	With permit

Office Information

Location: LUESA
2145 Suttle Ave., Charlotte, NC 28208

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Customer Service: 980-314-CODE

North Carolina Surveillance Laws

All security camera installations must comply with NC surveillance laws:

Video Recording Guidelines

North Carolina allows security cameras where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy:

• Public areas (lobbies, parking lots, retail floors, warehouses)
• Exterior areas visible from public property
• Common areas with proper signage

Recording private spaces like bathrooms without consent violates NCGS §14-202 - Class I felony with up to 24 months imprisonment.

Audio Recording - Critical Consideration

North Carolina is a one-party consent state (NCGS §15A-287). For commercial surveillance:

• Recording conversations where your system is not a party may violate the NC Electronic Surveillance Act
• Unauthorized audio recording is a Class H felony with up to 25 months imprisonment
• Recommendation: Disable audio on cameras in public/common areas, or post clear signage

Employee Privacy

Businesses must balance security and employee privacy:

• Cameras permitted on retail floors and warehouses
• Not permitted in private areas like break rooms (NCGS §14-202)
• Employers should inform employees via signage or policies

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Homeowners in Mecklenburg County may do their own wiring if:

• Homeowner will personally reside in the home
• Not for rent or sale within one year
• Homeowner permit required (set up account and bond first)

Call 980-314-CODE for homeowner permit process.

Commercial Installations

Commercial systems require:

• Licensed contractor
• Full permit application
• Employee notification for workplace surveillance
• Compliance with NC Building Code

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify exemption applies: All 6 conditions must be met for low-voltage licensing exemption
• Permits still required: Even with licensing exemption, permits and inspections are mandatory
• Disable audio: Avoid Class H felony by disabling audio in public areas
• Post signage: Warning signs establish expectations about surveillance
• Avoid break rooms: Never install cameras in employee break rooms or restrooms
• Document routes: Photos of concealed cable runs help during inspections

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across North Carolina and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Charlotte, NC
• Security Camera Permits in Raleigh, NC
• Security Camera Permits in Greensboro, NC
• North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide