Montana Intercom Permit Requirements: Complete Guide
Join Low Voltage Nation — Find project opportunities and showcase your company to thousands of industry professionals
Montana exempts electrical work involving 90 volts or less from state licensing requirements, covering most intercom installations. Local jurisdictions may have their own permit requirements. No specific low voltage license is required.
Intercom System Permit Requirements in Montana
Montana offers favorable conditions for low voltage contractors, as work involving 90 volts or less is exempt from state electrical licensing requirements. Here's what contractors need to know about licensing, permits, and requirements for intercom systems in Big Sky Country.
Quick Answer
Montana does not require an electrical license for work involving 90 volts or less of alternating or direct current. Most intercom installations fall under this exemption. Local jurisdictions may have their own permit requirements.
State Licensing Exemption
Under Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Section 37-68-103(9), Montana does not require an individual to hold a license to perform electrical work involving:
- 90 volts or less of alternating current (AC)
- 90 volts or less of direct current (DC)
This exemption covers most low voltage systems including intercoms, which typically operate well below this threshold.
What's Covered by the Exemption
- Intercom and door entry systems
- Access control systems
- Video surveillance (CCTV)
- Security systems
- Structured cabling
- Fire alarm systems (under 90V)
General Electrical Licensing
While low voltage work is exempt, the Montana State Electrical Board does regulate higher voltage electrical work:
License Types Available
- Residential Electrician
- Journeyman Electrician
- Master Electrician
- Limited Electrical Contractor
- Unlimited Electrical Contractor
Continuing Education
Licensed electricians must complete 16 hours of continuing education as outlined in ARM 24.225.2102. This applies to general electrical licenses, not the exempt low voltage category.
2025 Legislative Update
During the 2025 Legislative Session, Montana passed HB 276 requiring all licensees and applicants to provide current mailing addresses and report changes within 30 days. Electronic service of legal notices is available by providing a current email address.
Local Requirements
While state licensing is not required for low voltage work, local jurisdictions may have their own requirements:
Billings
Billings' Building Division handles permits for commercial electrical work. Contact the Building Division for specific requirements regarding low voltage installations. Most residential intercom work doesn't require permits.
Missoula
Missoula's Development Services handles building permits. Commercial projects may require permits regardless of voltage. Check with local authorities for specific low voltage requirements.
Great Falls
Great Falls follows Montana state guidelines. Commercial construction projects typically include low voltage systems in the overall permit scope.
Bozeman
Bozeman's Building Division may require permits for commercial work. The city follows state exemptions but may have additional requirements for commercial projects.
When Permits MAY Be Required
| Scenario | Permit Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential video doorbell | No | Under 90V exemption |
| Residential intercom | Usually No | Exempt from state licensing |
| Commercial intercom | Check Locally | May be part of building permit |
| New construction | Yes | Included in building permit |
| Fire alarm integration | Yes | Fire Marshal jurisdiction |
Commercial vs Residential
Residential Intercom
- No state license required (under 90V)
- Most installations don't require permits
- New construction includes intercom in building permit
- Must still comply with NEC requirements
Commercial Intercom
- No state license required for low voltage
- Local permits may be required
- Part of overall construction permit scope
- Professional installation recommended
Installation Best Practices
- Verify voltage: Ensure systems operate at 90V or less for exemption
- Check local requirements: Contact local building department
- Follow NEC: Comply with National Electrical Code Article 725
- Document work: Keep records for warranty and liability
- Carry insurance: Good business practice regardless of licensing
Related Permits You May Need
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to install intercoms in Montana?
No, Montana exempts electrical work involving 90 volts or less from licensing requirements. Most intercoms operate well below this threshold.
Do I need a permit to install a Ring doorbell in Montana?
No, wireless video doorbells don't require permits or licenses in Montana.
Can a homeowner install their own intercom system?
Yes, homeowners can install low voltage systems in their own residence without licensing or permits.
Does the exemption apply to commercial work?
Yes, the 90V exemption applies to both residential and commercial work. However, local jurisdictions may have permit requirements for commercial construction.
Find Intercom Projects in Montana
Looking for intercom installation opportunities in Montana? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across Montana, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.
Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Contact the Montana State Electrical Board at boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/electrical/ and local building departments for current requirements.
Join 35,000+ Low Voltage Pros
Get weekly permit updates, tool deals, job opportunities, and industry news. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.