Security Camera Permit Requirements in Multnomah County, Oregon

Installing security cameras in Multnomah County requires understanding Oregon's contractor licensing requirements and local permit jurisdictions. While most of Portland falls under the City's Bureau of Development Services, unincorporated areas of Multnomah County have their own permit processes. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits and compliance in Oregon's most populous county.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the installation scope and location. Many low-voltage security camera installations may be exempt from permits under Oregon state guidelines. Phone outlets and coaxial cable installations using properly listed wire types are exempt. However, commercial surveillance systems and installations integrated with fire alarm or access control typically require electrical permits.

Understanding Permit Jurisdictions in Multnomah County

Multnomah County contains multiple jurisdictions:

• City of Portland - Bureau of Development Services handles permits
• City of Gresham - Gresham Building Services
• Unincorporated Multnomah County - County Land Use Planning
• Other cities - Fairview, Troutdale, Wood Village have their own processes

For unincorporated areas, contact Multnomah County directly. For incorporated cities, contact that city's building department.

What Counts as a Security Camera Installation?

Security camera systems include:

• IP camera networks with PoE switches
• Analog CCTV systems with DVR recording
• Wireless camera systems with wired power
• Video intercom and doorbell cameras
• License plate recognition (LPR) systems
• Integration with access control or alarm systems

When Are Permits Required?

Oregon state guidelines and local jurisdictions require electrical permits for installing or altering low-voltage systems including security alarms and cameras.

May Be Exempt

• Low-voltage wiring similar to phone/CATV installations
• Using properly listed and insulated wire types
• Simple residential camera additions
• Battery-powered wireless cameras
• Plug-in doorbell cameras

Permit Likely Required

• Commercial surveillance system installations
• Systems requiring conduit installation
• Integration with fire alarm systems
• New construction projects
• Multi-family residential buildings

Oregon Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing work anywhere in Multnomah County, contractors must hold proper Oregon credentials.

Required Licenses

• CCB License - Oregon Construction Contractors Board registration
• Limited Energy (LE) Endorsement - Required for low-voltage installations
• Electrical License - Supervising electrician license on file with Oregon BCD
• Insurance - Liability and workers' compensation as required

For complete licensing details, see our Oregon Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How to Apply for Security Camera Permits

For Unincorporated Multnomah County

Multnomah County Land Use Planning
1600 SE 190th Avenue
Portland, OR 97233
Phone: (503) 988-3043
Online: multco.us/land-use-planning

For Portland (Most of Multnomah County)

Bureau of Development Services
1900 SW Fourth Avenue
Portland, OR 97201
Phone: (503) 823-7300
Online: portland.gov/bds

Application Process

1. Determine which jurisdiction covers your project location
2. Gather required documentation (CCB license, scope of work)
3. Submit application to appropriate building department
4. Pay permit fees
5. Schedule and pass required inspections

What Are the Fees for Security Camera Permits?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Notes
Electrical Permit (Low Voltage)	$85-$175	Varies by jurisdiction
Plan Review	Varies	If required for commercial
Re-inspection Fee	$75+	Per failed inspection

Fees vary by jurisdiction. Contact the appropriate building department for current schedules.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Phase	Timeline
Application submission	Same day
Trade permit review	1-5 business days
Permit issuance	Same day after approval
Inspection scheduling	24-48 hours notice

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Home security cameras in Multnomah County:

• Many low-voltage installations may be exempt
• Must use properly listed wire types
• Plug-in and battery cameras generally exempt
• Homeowners can pull permits for their own property

Commercial Installations

Business surveillance projects typically require:

• Electrical permits for new installations
• Licensed contractor must perform and obtain permit
• Integration with other systems may require additional review
• Commercial electrical permits in Portland require licensed contractor

Special Considerations for Multnomah County

Portland Metro Area

Multnomah County is the core of the Portland metro area:

• Multiple jurisdictions with different processes
• Oregon state licensing applies throughout
• Verify jurisdiction before starting any project

Oregon Privacy Laws

Oregon law affects camera placement:

• Recording in private areas without consent is prohibited
• Audio recording requires all-party consent
• Public areas can generally be recorded
• Workplace monitoring has notification requirements

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first - Different cities have different processes
• Use listed wire - Exempt installations still require properly listed wire types
• Licensed contractor required for commercial - Portland requires licensed contractors for commercial permits
• Keep licenses current - All jurisdictions verify CCB and electrical licenses
• Document installation - Photos help resolve inspection questions

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Additional Resources

• Multnomah County Land Use Planning
• Portland Bureau of Development Services
• Oregon Building Codes Division
• Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Oregon Low Voltage License Requirements