North Dakota Intercom Permit Requirements: Complete Guide
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North Dakota requires a Power Limited Electrician license for intercom installation. The license requires 2.5 years (6,000 hours) of supervised experience and passing a trade exam with 70% score. Contracting licensees need $500K liability insurance.
Intercom System Permit Requirements in North Dakota
North Dakota regulates low voltage work through the Power Limited Electrician license administered by the State Electrical Board. Here's what contractors need to know about licensing, permits, and requirements for intercom systems in North Dakota.
Quick Answer
North Dakota requires a Power Limited Electrician license to install intercom systems commercially. This license requires 2.5 years (6,000 hours) of supervised experience and passing a state trade exam with 70% score. The license covers systems under 100 volts.
State Licensing Requirements
The North Dakota State Electrical Board administers the Power Limited Electrician license:
License Types Available
- Contracting Power Limited Electrician: Can pull permits and operate as contractor
- Power Limited Electrician of Record: Serves as qualified person for contracting entity
- Noncontracting Power Limited Electrician: Works as employee only
Systems Covered
Power Limited Electricians can install, maintain, and repair low-voltage systems under 100 volts including:
- Intercom and door entry systems
- Security systems
- Fire alarms
- Data/communications infrastructure
- Control applications
Experience Requirements
- Register as Apprentice: Must register as apprentice power limited electrician first
- Supervised Work: Work under a contracting master, master of record, contracting power limited, or power limited electrician of record
- Duration: Minimum 2.5 years with 6,000 hours of qualifying work experience
Examination
- Format: State trade exam
- Time: 4.5 hours
- Passing Score: 70% or higher
Contractor Requirements
- Register business with North Dakota Secretary of State (701-328-2900)
- File proper paperwork for business registration AND contractor licensure
- Public liability insurance with minimum $500,000 policy limits
Contact Information
North Dakota State Electrical Board
1929 N. Washington Street, Suite A-1
Bismarck, ND 58507
Phone: (701) 328-9522
Website: ndseb.com
Major Cities in North Dakota
Fargo
Fargo requires permits for commercial low voltage work through the Inspections Department. Licensed Power Limited Electricians must pull permits for covered installations.
Bismarck
As the state capital, Bismarck follows state licensing requirements. Commercial projects require permits through the Building Inspections Division.
Grand Forks
Grand Forks requires permits for commercial electrical work. The city enforces state licensing requirements.
Minot
Minot follows state guidelines. Contact the Building Department for permit requirements.
When Permits ARE Required
| Scenario | Permit Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential video doorbell | Usually No | Minimal installation |
| Residential intercom | Check Locally | License required for contractor work |
| Commercial intercom | Yes | Permit and license required |
| New construction | Yes | Part of building permit |
Commercial vs Residential
Residential Intercom
- Power Limited Electrician license required for contractor work
- Local permits may be required
- Homeowner exemption for own residence
- Comply with NEC Article 725
Commercial Intercom
- Contracting Power Limited Electrician pulls permits
- Permits required through local jurisdiction
- $500K liability insurance required
- Inspection before activation
Installation Best Practices
- Obtain proper license: Complete apprenticeship and pass exam
- Register business: File with Secretary of State
- Maintain insurance: $500K minimum liability
- Pull permits: Obtain required permits
- Follow NEC: Comply with Article 725
Related Permits You May Need
- Access Control Permits in North Dakota
- Security Camera Permits in North Dakota
- Fire Alarm Permits in North Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to install intercoms in North Dakota?
Yes, you need a Power Limited Electrician license from the State Electrical Board.
How long does it take to get licensed?
Minimum 2.5 years (6,000 hours) of apprentice experience, then pass the trade exam.
Can a homeowner install their own intercom?
Yes, homeowners can install systems in their own residence without licensing.
What insurance is required?
Contracting licensees must have public liability insurance with minimum $500,000 policy limits.
Find Intercom Projects in North Dakota
Looking for intercom installation opportunities in North Dakota? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across North Dakota, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.
Last updated: February 2026. Contact the North Dakota State Electrical Board at (701) 328-9522 for current requirements.
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