Security Camera Permit Requirements in Miami, Florida

Quick Answer: In Miami, Florida, standalone security camera installations do not require a city permit. However, any monitored alarm system (including integrated surveillance with monitoring) requires registration with the City of Miami Alarm Ordinance Unit. The registration fee is $82.50. Permits are valid from October 1st through September 30th, and late renewals face a $240 fine. All contractors installing security cameras must hold a Florida Certified Alarm Systems Contractor (CASC) license.

Important: City vs. County Requirements

Miami has separate city and county alarm registration requirements. Make sure you register with the correct jurisdiction based on your property location:

• City of Miami: $82.50 annual registration
• Miami-Dade County (unincorporated areas): $25 annual registration

When Is a Permit Required?

Permit Required

• Monitored alarm systems: Any system that summons police response
• Audible alarms: Systems with sirens that may trigger police response
• Visual alarms: Systems with flashing lights designed to attract attention
• Residential and commercial: Both require registration

Generally Exempt

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

Florida Contractor Licensing Requirements

Florida requires a Certified Alarm Systems Contractor (CASC) license for professional security camera installation. This involves complying with Florida state law, meeting safety standards, and fulfilling financial obligations.

Required License: CASC or EF License

• Certified Alarm Systems Contractor (CASC): For alarm and camera installation
• Electrical Contractor (EF): May perform some low-voltage work depending on scope
• Licensed contractors must meet continuing education requirements

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

City of Miami Alarm Registration Process

Step 1: Register Online or By Mail

Online:

Register through the City of Miami portal:
apps.miamigov.com/baguest/register.aspx

By Mail:

City of Miami Alarm Ordinance Unit
P.O. Box 016777
Miami, FL 33101

Step 2: Provide Required Information

• Property address
• Property owner/tenant contact information
• Emergency contact details
• Alarm company information
• Type of alarm system

Step 3: Pay Registration Fee

$82.50 registration fee after the Alarm Ordinance Unit reviews your information.

Contact Information

City of Miami - Alarm Ordinance Unit
P.O. Box 016777
Miami, FL 33101
Website: miami-police.org/permits_alarms.html

Miami-Dade County Registration (Unincorporated Areas)

For properties in unincorporated Miami-Dade County:

Item	Cost
Annual Registration	$25
Annual Renewal	$25
First False Alarm	Free
Second False Alarm	$50
Third False Alarm	$100
Fourth+ False Alarms	$200 each

Miami-Dade County False Alarm Enforcement Unit
Phone: (305) 669-7676

City of Miami Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost
Registration Fee	$82.50
Permit Period	October 1 - September 30
Late Renewal Fine	$240

Note: The initial $82.50 registration fee applies regardless of which day you register during the permit period.

Florida Video Surveillance Laws

Florida has specific requirements for video surveillance:

• Public areas: Video surveillance is permitted in business premises and public areas
• Signage: Conspicuous signage notification or visible camera placement required
• Audio recording: Florida is an all-party consent state—all parties must consent to audio recording
• Video voyeurism: Comprehensive statutes regulate visual surveillance and protect privacy

Pro Tips for Miami Security Camera Projects

Based on contractor experience in the Miami market:

• Hurricane-rated equipment: Miami-Dade County has strict wind load requirements. Specify cameras and mounting hardware rated for hurricane conditions.
• Salt air corrosion: Coastal installations require marine-grade or corrosion-resistant housings.
• City vs. County: Always verify whether the property is within City of Miami limits or unincorporated Miami-Dade County—registration requirements differ significantly.
• Fiscal year permits: City of Miami permits run October through September. Plan installations around the renewal cycle to maximize permit value.
• Audio consent: Florida's all-party consent law means audio recording requires consent from all parties. Configure cameras accordingly.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Low Voltage License Florida
• All Permit Guides

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 Miami, Miami-Dade County, and the Florida DBPR before beginning work.