Access Control Permit Requirements in Orange County, Florida

Installing access control systems in Orange County requires understanding local permit requirements and Florida contractor licensing. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits for card readers, biometric systems, and electronic door hardware in Orange County and the Orlando metro area.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, for most installations. Per Orange County Code of Ordinances Section 9-86(a), an electrical permit is required to install any electrical wiring, apparatus, or equipment. A low-voltage permit is specifically required for security systems and related access control work unless exempted by statutory requirements.

When Permits Are Required

• Commercial access control systems - Card readers, biometric systems, electric strikes, mag locks
• Security systems - Burglar alarms and related access control
• Systems integrated with fire alarm - Door release mechanisms tied to fire life safety
• New construction projects - All access control work in new buildings
• Tenant improvements - Adding access control to existing commercial spaces

Low Voltage Permit Categories

On the Orange County electrical permit application, low voltage work is designated as category "017-New" and includes:

• Security systems
• Burglar alarms
• Thermostats
• Garage door openers
• Doorbells and chimes
• Other systems under 50 volts

Florida Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing access control work in Orange County, contractors must hold appropriate state licensure through the Florida DBPR.

Required License Types

License Type	Code	Scope
Electrical Contractor	EC	Full electrical including access control
Alarm System Contractor I	EF	All alarm systems including access control
Alarm System Contractor II	EG	Alarm systems excluding fire (includes access control)
Low Voltage Specialty	ES	Systems not exceeding 77 volts including electronic locks

Orange County Local License

Orange County also issues local Low Voltage, Communication, and Sound licenses. This county-specific license (ET-069) allows work on electrical systems under 50V within Orange County only. State-certified contractors can work throughout Florida.

For complete licensing requirements, see our Florida Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Orange County Permit Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Use the Orange County Electrical Permit Application:

• Select "Low Voltage (017-New)" as work type
• Specify type of work (security systems, etc.)
• Valid Florida contractor license number
• Building Permit Number (if associated with construction)
• Project scope and specifications

Step 2: Submit Application

Submit through the Orange County Fast Track online permit system or in person at the Division of Building Safety.

Step 3: Record Notice of Commencement

A Notice of Commencement must be recorded and posted on the job site before the first inspection.

Step 4: Pay Fees and Schedule Inspection

Pay permit fees through Fast Track and schedule inspection upon completion.

Permit Fees and Timeline

Item	Details
Low Voltage Permit Fee	$40 maximum (state cap)
Notice of Commencement	Required before first inspection
Online System	Fast Track at fasttrack.ocfl.net

Code Requirements

Orange County enforces:

• Florida Building Code - Current edition
• Orange County Code of Ordinances - Chapter 9, Article III Electrical Code
• National Electrical Code (NEC)
• ADA requirements - For accessible entrances and egress

City of Orlando vs. Orange County

If your project is within the City of Orlando specifically:

• Security alarm registration: Required through City of Orlando
• Registration portal: orlando.gov security alarm registration

For unincorporated Orange County, use the county permit process.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Single-family homes may have statutory exemptions for certain work
• Low-voltage security systems typically require permits
• Multi-family buildings follow commercial requirements

Commercial Access Control

• Permits required for all security system installations
• Fire door integration requires fire marshal approval
• Notice of Commencement required before first inspection
• ADA compliance considerations for accessible entrances

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Use Fast Track: Online system allows permit submission and payment
• Notice of Commencement: Must be recorded and posted before first inspection
• Specify work type: Select correct category on application (security systems, etc.)
• Check jurisdiction: City of Orlando has separate registration requirements
• Building permit link: Include building permit number if associated with construction

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Division of Building Safety	(407) 836-5550
Address	201 Rosalind Avenue, 1st Floor, Orlando, FL 32801
Email	PermittingServices@ocfl.net
Online Permits	fasttrack.ocfl.net
Florida DBPR (Licensing)	(850) 487-1395

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Orange County before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Florida and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Florida Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Orange County Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Orlando Access Control Permit Requirements
• Tampa Access Control Permit Requirements