Security Camera Permit Requirements in Mesa, Arizona

Quick Answer: Most security camera installations in Mesa do not require permits. Low-voltage wiring for CCTV and surveillance systems is generally exempt from permit requirements under Arizona building codes. However, installations requiring new electrical circuits may need an electrical permit. All contractors performing security camera work over $1,000 must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 or R-67 Low Voltage Communication Systems license.

When Are Permits Required in Mesa?

The City of Mesa Development Services follows the 2018 International Code Council (ICC) codes and 2017 National Electrical Code. Low-voltage work has specific exemptions.

Permit NOT Required

• Low-voltage security camera systems (under 50 volts)
• Wireless camera systems (Ring, Nest, Arlo)
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera installations
• CCTV using listed-type low-voltage wire
• Plug-and-play systems using existing outlets
• Camera replacements and upgrades in existing locations

Permit May Be Required

• New electrical circuits for camera equipment (NVR, large PoE switches)
• Installations requiring structural modifications
• Systems integrated with fire alarm or life safety systems
• Work in historic districts requiring design review
• Large commercial installations with dedicated electrical panels

According to Arizona Building Officials (AZBO), low-voltage wiring for CATV and similar systems using listed-type wire typically does not require permits.

Arizona Contractor Licensing Requirements

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC) requires specific licensing for security camera installation work.

Required License Classifications

License	Type	Scope
C-67	Commercial	Low Voltage Communication Systems including security cameras, alarms, CCTV
R-67	Residential	Low Voltage Communication Systems for residential properties
CR-67	Dual	Combined commercial and residential scope

License Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 2 years in the low voltage trade
• Examinations: Arizona SRE plus C-67 trade exam (70% passing score)
• Bond: $15,000 for commercial (C-67), $9,000 for residential (R-67)
• Background check: Required for all applicants

For comprehensive licensing information, see our Arizona Low Voltage License Guide.

When Is a License Required?

Arizona law requires a contractor license when:

• Labor and materials exceed $1,000, OR
• A permit is required (regardless of project cost)

Alarm Permits in Mesa

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring features, Mesa has specific alarm permit requirements:

• Alarm companies must be certified by AZ ROC or Arizona Board of Technical Registration (BTR)
• Per Arizona Revised Statute 32-113, Mesa no longer issues Alarm Company or Agent Licenses directly
• Alarm system users may need to register with the Mesa Police Department

Permit Application Process

When your security camera project requires an electrical permit:

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

• Site plan showing camera locations
• Electrical load calculations (for systems requiring new circuits)
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license number (AZ ROC)

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply through the City of Mesa Development Services:

City of Mesa Development Services
55 N. Center Street
Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 644-2211

Step 3: Inspection

Schedule inspection after installation for permitted work.

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Fee	Timeline
Low-voltage cameras (exempt)	$0	No permit needed
Electrical Permit (if required)	$50 - $200+	1-5 business days
Plan Review (commercial)	$100 - $300+	5-15 business days
Inspection	Included with permit	Schedule within 24-48 hours

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

• Low-voltage cameras typically do not require permits
• Homeowners can install their own systems (no license required for owner-occupied)
• R-67 license required for contractor work over $1,000
• HOA approval may be required in master-planned communities
• Cameras must not capture neighbors' private areas

Commercial Installations

• Low-voltage systems generally exempt from permits
• Electrical permits may be required for new circuits
• Visible signage required notifying of surveillance
• Cannot record areas with reasonable privacy expectation
• C-67 license required for all commercial work over $1,000

Arizona Privacy and Recording Laws

Mesa security camera installations must comply with Arizona state privacy laws:

Video Recording Rules

• Permitted: Public areas, parking lots, building entrances, common areas
• Prohibited: Restrooms, locker rooms, bedrooms, changing areas
• Filming in private areas without consent is illegal under Arizona law

Audio Recording

Arizona is a one-party consent state. You may record audio if at least one party to the conversation consents.

Signage Requirements

• Businesses must post visible surveillance notices
• Signs must be clear and easily visible to customers and employees
• Proper signage provides legal protection

Mesa Building Code

Mesa has adopted the following codes that affect security camera installations:

• 2018 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• 2018 International Fire Code (IFC)

Code amendments and local requirements are available through the Mesa Building Code page.

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify voltage before assuming exemption — Most IP cameras are low-voltage, but always confirm specifications
• Use PoE for simplicity — Power over Ethernet keeps everything low-voltage and permit-exempt
• Check HOA rules in Mesa communities — Many neighborhoods have exterior modification restrictions
• Document everything — Keep equipment specs showing low-voltage operation in your project file
• Post signage proactively — Even residential installations benefit from visible surveillance notices
• Plan for Arizona heat — Outdoor cameras need IP66+ ratings; shade structures help in direct sun

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona

Summary

Most security camera installations in Mesa are exempt from permits as low-voltage systems. Permits may be required when new electrical circuits are needed. All contractors performing work over $1,000 must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 (commercial) or R-67 (residential) license. Installations must comply with Arizona privacy laws, including proper signage for commercial properties.

For questions about specific permit requirements, contact Mesa Development Services at (480) 644-2211.