Access Control Permit Requirements in Montgomery County, Maryland

Planning to install access control systems—electronic door locks, card readers, or biometric systems—in Montgomery County, Maryland? This guide covers the permit requirements, licensing, and regulations through the Department of Permitting Services (DPS). Montgomery County has streamlined its low voltage permit process, making access control installations straightforward for licensed contractors.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the installation scope. Simple plug-and-play electronic locks typically don't require permits. However, access control systems involving new low voltage wiring, integration with fire alarm systems, or penetration of fire-rated assemblies will require permits. Contractors providing security system services commercially must also have both Maryland State Police and Montgomery County Alarm Business licenses.

When Is a Permit Required for Access Control?

Permit Typically NOT Required:

• Battery-powered smart locks (no wiring)
• Standalone keypad locks replacing existing hardware
• Wireless access control using existing power outlets
• Low voltage control wiring under 30 volts that doesn't penetrate fire-rated assemblies or plenums

Permit IS Required:

• Low voltage wiring that penetrates fire-rated assemblies
• Wiring installed in air plenums
• Access control integrated with fire alarm systems
• Electric strikes or magnetic locks on fire-rated doors
• Gate operators and barrier arm systems
• Commercial installations with significant infrastructure

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

For Low Voltage Permits

Good news: Montgomery County does not require a license to apply for a low voltage permit. This streamlines the process for simple access control installations. However, if the work involves fire alarm integration, a Master Limited or Master Electrician license from DPS is required.

Montgomery County Alarm Business License

Security contractors providing access control services commercially must obtain a Montgomery County Alarm Business License:

• Annual non-refundable processing fee: $200
• Must also have Maryland State Police Security Systems Agency License
• Applies to companies that sell, install, or monitor security systems
• License renewal required annually

Maryland Security Systems Agency License

Required from the Maryland State Police:

• Background check required
• Proof of insurance ($50,000 minimum)
• Application fee: $100-$130
• Processing time: up to 90 days

For comprehensive information on Maryland's licensing requirements, see our Maryland Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for a Low Voltage Permit?

Montgomery County has a streamlined online permit process:

Step 1: Determine If Permit Is Needed

• Low voltage control wiring under 30V typically exempt unless penetrating fire-rated assemblies or plenums
• If integrating with fire alarm system, fire alarm permit is also required
• When in doubt, contact DPS at 240-777-0311

Step 2: Apply Online via DPS ePermits

• Visit DPS ePermits portal
• Complete the low voltage electrical permit application
• For low voltage only work, leave "Application # of the Parent Permit" blank
• No violations may be present on the property

Step 3: Pay and Receive Permit

• Pay required fees electronically
• Permit is automatically issued upon payment for simple LV work
• No waiting period for standard low voltage permits

Step 4: Complete Installation

• Post permit conspicuously at job site
• Keep approved plans immediately available for review
• Install per approved plans and applicable codes

Step 5: Schedule Inspection

• Request inspection via DPS eServices
• Or call Montgomery County 311 at 240-777-0311
• Have system operational for inspector review

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Fee Type	Cost
Low Voltage Electrical Permit	Varies by scope (see fee schedule)
Filing Fee	Non-refundable at application
Alarm Business License	$200/year
MSP Security License	$100-$130

Timeline	Duration
LV Permit Issuance	Immediate (automatic upon payment)
Inspection Scheduling	Typically 1-3 business days
MSP License Processing	Up to 90 days

What Codes Apply to Access Control Systems?

Access control installations must comply with codes enforced by DPS:

• National Electrical Code (NEC) - For all wiring requirements
• NFPA 80 - Fire door assemblies (for electric hardware on fire doors)
• NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code (egress requirements)
• International Building Code (IBC) - Door and egress requirements
• ADA Requirements - Accessible hardware and operation

What Are the Requirements for Residential vs Commercial?

Residential Access Control

• No contractor license required for simple installations
• Homeowner can install battery-powered smart locks without permit
• Low voltage permits may be needed for hardwired systems
• No security systems license needed for personal use

Commercial Access Control

• Maryland Security Systems Agency License required for contractors
• Montgomery County Alarm Business License required ($200/year)
• Low voltage permits for wiring installations
• Fire alarm permit if integrating with fire system
• ADA compliance for accessible hardware
• Fire door coordination critical—locked doors must release on fire alarm

What About Fire Door and Egress Requirements?

Access control on fire-rated and egress doors requires special attention:

Fire-Rated Doors

• Electric hardware must not compromise fire rating
• Use only listed and labeled hardware for fire doors
• Magnetic locks must release on fire alarm activation
• May require fire alarm permit if integrating with fire system

Emergency Egress

• All egress doors must unlock upon fire alarm signal
• Delayed egress locks limited per NFPA 101 requirements
• Request-to-exit devices required on secured egress doors
• Manual override or break-glass must be provided

Pro Tips from Experienced Access Control Installers

• No license for LV permits: Take advantage of Montgomery County's streamlined process—no license required for simple low voltage permits
• 30V threshold: Under 30V and not penetrating fire assemblies or plenums? Permit may not be required
• Get both business licenses: Commercial work requires BOTH MSP state license AND Montgomery County Alarm Business License
• Fire integration = more permits: If access control ties into fire alarm, expect fire alarm permit requirements too
• Automatic issuance: Low voltage permits issue immediately upon payment—great for project scheduling
• Jurisdiction check: Rockville and Gaithersburg have separate permit processes—verify property location first
• Email for questions: Contact MC311Electrical@montgomerycountymd.gov for permit questions

Contact Information

Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services
Address: 2425 Reedie Drive, 7th Floor, Wheaton, MD
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (no appointment needed)
Phone: 240-777-0311
Email: MC311Electrical@montgomerycountymd.gov
Website: Low Voltage Permit Information

Online Services
ePermits Portal: permittingservices.montgomerycountymd.gov
eServices: Inspection Scheduling

Police False Alarm Reduction Section (FARS)
For Alarm Business Licenses
Website: Alarm Company License Requirements

Maryland State Police Licensing Division
Phone: 410-799-0191 ext. 300
Website: Security Systems Agency License

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