Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Mobile, Alabama

Structured cabling and data network installations in Mobile, Alabama operate under one of the most complex licensing frameworks in the nation. Alabama requires different licenses depending on the specific type of low voltage work, making it essential for contractors to understand which boards oversee their scope of work.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no building permit for low voltage cabling. Standard structured cabling installations operating at 50 volts or less typically do not require a building permit in Mobile. However, contractors must hold appropriate state licensing through either the AECB (Alabama Electrical Contractors Board) or AESBL depending on the work scope, and projects requiring new electrical circuits or structural modifications may need permits.

When Is a Permit Required vs Exempt?

No Building Permit Required:

• Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a cable installations
• Fiber optic backbone and horizontal runs
• Network rack and patch panel installations
• Wireless access point mounting and cabling
• Low voltage cable pathway installation
• Telecommunications room buildouts (cabling only)

Permit May Be Required:

• New electrical circuits for equipment rooms
• HVAC modifications for cooling equipment
• Structural penetrations through fire-rated assemblies
• Outdoor aerial cable installations
• Underground conduit runs

What Are the State Licensing Requirements?

Alabama has a complex licensing system with different boards overseeing different types of low voltage work. For complete details, see our Alabama Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

AECB - Alabama Electrical Contractors Board:

The AECB oversees data cabling, telecommunications wiring, network infrastructure, and any electrical work ≥26 volts.

Low Voltage Special Systems License Requirements:

• Experience: 8,000 hours of documented experience
• Exams: Low Voltage Special Systems exam + Alabama General Contractor Business and Law exam
• Code reference: 2023 NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
• Exam fees: $165 (electrical contractors) / $115 (journeyman)

License Scope:

Covers interior and exterior special systems, cabling, and interconnections at commercial and residential locations operating at 50 volts or less, including:

• Telecommunications systems
• CATV systems
• Audio and visual systems
• Temperature control circuits
• Other low voltage specialty systems

AESBL - Alabama Electronic Security Board:

The AESBL oversees security-related low voltage work including CCTV cabling when part of a security system installation.

Multiple License Situations:

Some projects may require multiple licenses. For example, a security system with extensive data cabling may require both AESBL and AECB licenses. Always verify with both boards when work crosses boundaries.

What Does Mobile's Electrical Code Say?

According to City of Mobile Ordinance 19-005, a "Low Voltage Contractor" is defined as a person licensed by the Alabama Electronics Security Board to perform electrical work of 50 volts or less for installations of:

• Sound, radio, and television receiving equipment
• Smoke, fire, burglary, and other security alarm and recordation systems
• Banking, photographic, merchandising, dispensing, cleaning systems
• Other electrical and electronic systems

Important: These systems must not be attached to the electrical wiring system of the building or structure (i.e., must operate independently at low voltage).

How Do You Get Licensed?

AECB License Application Process:

1. Document 8,000 hours of relevant experience
2. Download application from AECB website
3. Schedule and pass Low Voltage Special Systems exam
4. Pass Alabama General Contractor Business and Law exam
5. Submit application with required documentation
6. Pay applicable fees

Reciprocity Options:

Alabama offers reciprocity with these states if you passed an equivalent exam:

• Mississippi State Board of Contractors
• Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
• North Carolina Electrical Board
• South Carolina Contractor's Board
• Virginia Contractor Licensing Board
• Georgia Electrical Contractors Board
• Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

Contact Information:

Agency	Contact	Purpose
AECB	(205) 945-7749	Low voltage/electrical licensing
AESBL	(334) 264-9388	Security system licensing
Mobile Permit Office	(251) 208-7525	Building permits (if required)
Build Mobile	buildmobile.org	Permitting & inspections

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Fee	Timeline
AECB electrical contractor exam	$165	Schedule with Prov
AECB journeyman exam	$115	Schedule with Prov
AECB license application	Varies	2-4 weeks processing
Building permit (if required)	Varies by scope	1-2 weeks review

What Are the Differences Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Structured Cabling:

• No permit typically required for data drops
• Simpler network closet requirements
• Standard Cat6 home runs common
• Same licensing requirements as commercial
• May combine with security or AV installations

Commercial Structured Cabling:

• Larger scale MDF/IDF room buildouts
• May require permits for equipment room electrical/HVAC
• TIA-568 standards compliance often specified
• Fiber backbone requirements common
• Coordination with general contractor and other trades
• Testing and certification documentation required

Pro Tips from Mobile Contractors

• Verify your license scope: Alabama's complex system means your license may not cover all low voltage work—confirm with both AECB and AESBL
• Consider reciprocity: If licensed in a reciprocal state, the application process is simplified
• Document experience carefully: The 8,000-hour requirement needs proper documentation
• Fire-rated penetrations: Even without a permit, follow proper firestopping requirements for rated assemblies
• Coordinate with security contractors: If the project includes CCTV or access control, ensure proper AESBL licensing is in place
• Keep NEC current: Exams reference 2023 NFPA 70—stay updated on code changes

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when structured cabling projects hit permits in Mobile before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Mobile

• Security Camera Permits in Mobile, Alabama
• Fire Alarm Permits in Mobile, Alabama
• Access Control Permits in Mobile, Alabama