Security Camera Permit Requirements in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City, the state capital and largest city in Oklahoma, has a growing commercial and residential market for security camera installations. Understanding local permit requirements and state licensing keeps your projects compliant and protects your business.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standard security camera installations. Oklahoma City does not require specific permits for typical security camera installations on private property. However, installations involving significant electrical work may require electrical permits, and the state requires alarm/security installer licensing for anyone selling, installing, or monitoring security systems including CCTV.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Most security camera installations in Oklahoma City are permit-exempt at the local level, but certain situations trigger requirements:

Permit May Be Required:

• Conduit installation for camera wiring (electrical permit)
• Installations in historical districts (architectural review)
• Camera systems as part of tenant improvement or new construction
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring structural foundations
• Installations requiring inspection for certificate of occupancy

Typically Permit-Exempt:

• Surface-mounted camera installations
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems
• Wireless security cameras
• Adding cameras to existing infrastructure
• NVR/DVR equipment installation
• Low-voltage cabling without conduit

What Contractor License Do You Need in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma has specific licensing requirements for security system installers:

Oklahoma Department of Labor - Alarm License

A statewide license is required for anyone who sells, installs, alters, or repairs alarm systems, including:

• Burglar/Fire Alarm Systems
• CCTV/Security Cameras
• Access Control
• Nurse Call Systems

License Types

• Manager/Qualifying Agent - Requires 4 years experience (including 2 years as licensed technician), technical exam, and background check. Every alarm company must employ at least one Manager.
• Technician - Requires technical exam and background check
• Trainee - Must work under direct supervision of a technician or manager (max 3 trainees per supervisor per job site)

Exemption

An electrical contractor or electrician licensed by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board is NOT required to have an additional alarm license.

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

How Do You Apply for Permits in Oklahoma City?

When electrical permits are required for your security camera installation:

Oklahoma City Development Services

Permits Office
420 W. Main Street, 9th Floor
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone: (405) 297-2525

Visit OKC Permits for online applications and information.

Required Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Oklahoma alarm license number or CIB electrical license
• Equipment specifications
• Wiring diagrams for complex installations

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Processing Time
Electrical (with conduit)	$75-$175+	1-3 business days
No Plan Review Required	Base fees apply	Same day possible
With Plan Review	Additional fees	1-2 weeks

What About Residential vs. Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Oklahoma City typically don't require permits unless:

• Installing conduit runs through walls
• Part of new construction or major remodel
• Located in a historical district
• Requiring electrical panel modifications

Note: Rental properties require landlord authorization; HOA communities may require association approval.

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial installations may require permits when:

• Part of tenant improvement scope
• Requiring structural modifications for camera mounts
• Integrated with fire alarm or access control systems
• City inspection needed for occupancy certificate

Oklahoma Privacy Laws

Security camera installations must comply with Oklahoma privacy laws:

• Public areas - Video surveillance is legal in areas without privacy expectation
• Private areas prohibited - No cameras where privacy is reasonably expected (restrooms, changing areas)
• Audio recording - Oklahoma is a one-party consent state for audio recording
• Workplace notice - Employers should inform employees of video surveillance

State Licensing Contact Information

Oklahoma Department of Labor (Alarm Licensing)

Hours: Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM; Thursday: 8 AM - 12 PM
Oklahoma Alarm Licensing

Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (Electrical)

2401 NW 23rd Street, Suite 2F
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Phone: (405) 521-6550
Website: cib.ok.gov

Company License Display Requirements

Oklahoma requires the state-issued company license number to be displayed on:

• Letterhead stationery
• Business cards
• Invoices and statements
• Contracts, bids, and estimates
• Plans and printed advertisements
• Electronic media advertisements

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Get licensed first - Oklahoma requires alarm/CCTV licenses before you can legally install
• Check historical districts - Parts of OKC require architectural review board approval
• Display license numbers - Required on all business materials and advertisements
• Understand exemptions - CIB electrical license exempts you from alarm license
• Study for exams - Oklahoma publishes study guides for all low voltage exams

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Oklahoma City

More Oklahoma City permit guides coming soon for fire alarm, access control, and structured cabling installations.