Security Camera Permit Requirements in Nashville, Tennessee

Installing security cameras in Nashville requires understanding both Metro Codes permitting and Tennessee's state-level alarm contractor licensing. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits, licensing, alarm registration, and compliance requirements in Davidson County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on scope and monitoring. Security camera installations involving new electrical circuits require electrical permits through Metro Codes. If your CCTV system is monitored or integrated with an alarm system, you'll need Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractor licensing and the end user must register with Metro Nashville's Alarm Registration Division.

When Permits Are Required vs. Exempt

Permits Required

• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Conduit installation through walls or ceilings
• Hardwired systems requiring panel modifications
• Commercial installations as part of building permit scope
• Projects integrated with fire or burglar alarm systems

Potentially Exempt Work

• Plug-in wireless cameras using existing outlets
• Battery-powered security cameras
• Low-voltage work not involving new circuits (varies by scope)
• Private building security cameras (not in public right-of-way)

Important: Even exempt installations require proper contractor licensing if performed for compensation.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Tennessee has specific licensing requirements for security camera and alarm work:

Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractor License

The Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractors Board (under the Detection Services Licensing Program) regulates CCTV contractors. License types include:

• CCTV License: For camera systems used for security detection
• Burglar Alarm License: For intrusion detection systems
• Fire Alarm License: For fire detection systems
• Alarm Monitoring License: For central station monitoring

Qualifying Agent Requirements

Each alarm contractor company must have a Qualifying Agent (QA) who:

• Meets experience, education, and examination requirements
• Holds approved post-high-school education or equivalent experience
• Passes PSI exam for relevant classifications
• Completes Level 1 Training
• Submits fingerprints through IdentoGo

Licensing Fees

Fee Type	Amount
Company Certification Application	$500
Employee Registration	$100
Renewal Period	Every 2 years
Continuing Education (QA)	16 hours per renewal

For detailed licensing information, see our Tennessee Low Voltage License Guide.

Electrical Contractor License

If work involves electrical circuits:

• CE (Electrical Contractor): Projects over $25,000
• LLE (Limited Licensed Electrician): Projects under $25,000

Nashville Business Requirements

• Metro Nashville business license
• Davidson County business license
• Proof of insurance as required by state board
• Permanent fixed business location

Metro Nashville Alarm Registration

If your security camera system includes monitoring or is integrated with an alarm system, the end user must register with Metro Nashville.

Registration Requirements

• Administered by: Metro Codes Alarm Registration Division
• Required for: All monitored burglar and fire alarm systems
• Renewal: Annually, due at end of month when initially issued
• Display: Permit must be visible from outside front of building
• Transferability: Permits are NOT transferable between locations

How to Register

Apply through Metro's ePermits system at Nashville Alarm Registration. A 2.3% convenience fee applies to credit/debit card transactions (charged by third-party processor).

Contact Information

Alarm Registration Division
800 President Ronald Reagan Way
Metro Office Building, 1st Floor
Nashville, TN 37210

Metro Codes Electrical Permit Process

Step 1: Register as Contractor

Licensed contractors must register for the E-Permits system by emailing codes.registration@nashville.gov to obtain username and password.

Step 2: Apply for Permits

Use Metro's E-Permits System to apply for electrical permits. Trade permits can be self-issued by registered contractors 24/7.

Step 3: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections through the E-Permits system after work is complete.

Note: Only licensed contractors can use the E-Permits system. Homeowners must apply in person at the Metro Office Building.

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
Electrical Permit	Varies	Based on scope
Alarm Registration (user)	Annual fee	Varies by type
State Contractor License	$500	Plus employee fees
E-Permit Processing	Same day	Self-issued for contractors
Card Transaction Fee	2.3%	Third-party processor

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

• State alarm contractor license required if CCTV for security
• Electrical permit if new circuits added
• Alarm registration required if monitored
• Homeowner cannot pull permits online (must visit office)

Commercial Installations

• State alarm contractor license required
• Electrical permit typically required
• May be part of larger building permit
• Alarm registration mandatory for monitored systems
• Employee registration required for all technicians

Tennessee Privacy Laws

Tennessee is a one-party consent state for audio recording, meaning:

• Only one party to a conversation needs to consent to recording
• Video recording in public/common areas is generally permitted
• Audio recording is less restrictive than two-party consent states
• Still cannot record in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy

Placement Considerations

• No cameras in restrooms, changing areas, or private spaces
• Workplace monitoring should have employee notification
• Public right-of-way surveillance requires Metro Council approval
• Private building security cameras exempt from public ROW rules

Out-of-State Contractors

If you're based outside Tennessee but working in Nashville:

• Tennessee alarm contractor license still required
• Must register employees working in Tennessee
• Local business license may be required
• Advertising or soliciting to Tennessee residents triggers licensing

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Get licensed first: Tennessee actively enforces alarm contractor licensing - don't risk it
• Register employees within 30 days: State requires employee registration promptly
• Use E-Permits: 24/7 access and instant permit issuance for registered contractors
• Educate customers on alarm registration: They'll get fined for false alarms without it
• Track CE credits: 16 hours every 2 years for QA renewal
• PSI exams are open book: But still study - the Tennessee exams are comprehensive

Contact Information

Metro Nashville Codes and Building Safety

• Address: 800 President Ronald Reagan Way, 1st Floor, Nashville, TN 37210
• E-Permits Registration: codes.registration@nashville.gov
• Website: nashville.gov/departments/codes

Metro Alarm Registration Division

• Website: Alarm Registration

Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractors Board

• Phone: 615-741-9771
• Website: tn.gov/commerce/regboards/alarm

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Tennessee Low Voltage License Requirements
• Browse All Permit Guides