Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Mesa, Arizona

Quick Answer: Most structured cabling and data network installations in Mesa do not require permits when limited to low-voltage wiring. According to Arizona Building Officials, low-voltage wiring for CATV and similar systems using listed-type wire typically does not require permits. Contractors must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 license for work over $1,000.

When Are Permits Required in Mesa?

The City of Mesa Development Services follows the 2018 ICC codes and 2017 National Electrical Code (effective February 10, 2019).

Permit NOT Required

• Low-voltage data cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6A, Cat7)
• Fiber optic cable installations
• CATV wiring using listed-type wire
• Telephone and VoIP cabling
• Patch panel and rack installations
• Wireless access point cabling
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) systems

Permit May Be Required

• New electrical circuits for network equipment
• Penetrations through fire-rated assemblies
• Telecommunications room HVAC modifications
• Conduit installations requiring core drilling
• Installations integrated with fire alarm systems

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

Arizona Contractor Licensing Requirements

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC) requires licensing for structured cabling work.

Required License Classifications

License	Type	Scope
C-67	Commercial	Low Voltage Communication Systems including data cabling, telephone, sound systems
R-67	Residential	Low Voltage Communication Systems for residential
CR-67	Dual	Combined commercial and residential scope

The C-67 license covers installation, service, and repair of telephone systems, sound systems, intercommunication systems, public addressing systems, television or video systems, and low voltage signaling devices.

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.

Exemptions from Licensing

Per ARS §32-1121, cable television, satellite, and telecommunications providers (including contractors and subcontractors) are exempt if work is limited to installing low-voltage cable, telephone, internet, and data services. This exemption does not cover digging, trenching, grading, or horizontal boring.

When Is a License Required?

A license is required when:

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

Permit Application Process

When your structured cabling project requires a permit:

Step 1: Determine Permit Type

• Electrical Permit: For new circuits or dedicated power
• Building Permit: For fire-rated penetrations

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply through DIMES or:

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

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Fee	Timeline
Low-voltage cabling (exempt)	$0	No permit needed
Electrical Permit (if required)	$50 - $200+	1-5 business days
Building Permit (penetrations)	$75 - $200+	3-10 business days
Inspection	Included with permit	Schedule 24-48 hours

Code Requirements

NEC Article 800 - Communications Circuits

• Cables must be listed and labeled for intended use
• Proper separation from power conductors
• Grounding and bonding per NEC 800.100
• Support intervals per manufacturer specifications

NEC Article 770 - Optical Fiber Cables

• Cables installed in neat and workmanlike manner
• Exposed cables supported by building structure
• Protection from physical damage

Plenum Requirements

• Air handling spaces require plenum-rated (CMP) cable
• Riser-rated (CMR) cable for vertical shafts
• General-purpose (CM) cable for other areas

Firestopping

• Penetrations through fire-rated assemblies must be firestopped
• Use listed firestop systems rated for cable penetrations
• Documentation and labeling required

Industry Standards

Mesa commercial projects typically follow:

• ANSI/TIA-568: Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard
• ANSI/TIA-569: Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
• ANSI/TIA-606: Administration Standard for Telecommunications Infrastructure
• BICSI TDMM: Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Structured Cabling

• Low-voltage cabling exempt from permits
• Homeowners may perform own work (no license required for owner-occupied)
• R-67 license required for contractor work over $1,000
• HOA restrictions may apply

Commercial Structured Cabling

• Low-voltage cabling generally exempt from permits
• Permits required for electrical circuits and fire-rated penetrations
• C-67 license required for all work over $1,000
• BICSI standards recommended for design
• Fluke certification testing typically required

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Document the exemption — Keep specs showing low-voltage operation in project files
• Verify plenum vs. non-plenum spaces — Inspect above ceiling tiles before specifying cable type
• Coordinate with other trades — Cable pathways often conflict with HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
• Test and certify everything — Fluke certification provides documentation and identifies problems
• Firestop as you go — Document all penetrations with photos and product data sheets
• Plan for Arizona heat — Cable in attics and outdoor enclosures must handle extreme temperatures

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when structured cabling 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

• Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Mesa, Arizona
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Mesa, Arizona

Summary

Structured cabling installations in Mesa are generally exempt from permits as low-voltage systems. This includes Cat5e, Cat6, and fiber optic data cabling. Permits may be required for new electrical circuits or fire-rated penetrations. Contractors must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 license for commercial work over $1,000.

For questions, contact Mesa Development Services at (480) 644-2211.