Access Control Permit Requirements in Orlando, Florida

Quick Answer: Access control system installations in Orlando require a low voltage permit unless the system is wireless. Under Florida Statute 553.793, alarm system projects (including access controls) have streamlined permitting using uniform permit labels. Wireless systems are exempt from permits entirely. If the system includes burglar alarm monitoring, register with the City of Orlando Security Alarm program. Contractors must hold a Florida EF, EG, or ES license from DBPR.

Understanding Orlando Access Control Permitting

Access control permit requirements in the Orlando area depend on whether your project is in City of Orlando limits or unincorporated Orange County, and whether the system is hardwired or wireless.

Florida Streamlined Low-Voltage Permitting

Under Florida Statute 553.793, low voltage alarm system projects have special streamlined permitting provisions.

What Qualifies as a Low-Voltage Alarm System Project?

The statute covers installation, maintenance, inspection, replacement, or service of new or existing alarm systems that are hardwired and operating at low voltage, including:

• Burglar and intrusion alarms
• Video cameras and closed-circuit television systems
• Access controls
• Home-automation equipment
• Thermostats
• Low-voltage electric fences

Uniform Permit Labels

Local enforcement agencies must make uniform basic permit labels available for contractors to purchase for alarm system installations. This streamlines the permitting process compared to traditional permit applications.

Wireless System Exemption

A permit is NOT required to install, maintain, inspect, replace, or service a wireless alarm system, including any ancillary components or equipment attached to the system.

Orange County Electrical Permits

For hardwired access control systems in Orange County, apply through the Orange County Electrical Permit process.

Low Voltage Permit Requirements

A low voltage permit is required for:

• Security systems
• Burglar alarms
• Closed circuit TV (when hardwired)
• Data cabling
• Access control systems (when hardwired)

Application Requirements

When applying for a low voltage permit, specify:

• Type of work: New, Alteration, Addition, Repair, or Low Voltage
• System type (security systems, access control, etc.)
• Contractor license information

Contact Information

Orange County Division of Building Safety

• Email: permittingservices@ocfl.net
• Website: orangecountyfl.net/PermitsLicenses

Security Alarm Registration

If your access control system includes burglar alarm monitoring or features that could trigger police response, register with the City of Orlando Security Alarm program.

When Registration Is Required

• System connects to monitoring service
• System has audible alarms or sirens
• System could cause police dispatch

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Florida requires specific licensing for access control work through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Applicable License Types

License	Description	Access Control Scope
EF	Certified Alarm System Contractor I	All alarm systems including fire, plus electric locks
EG	Certified Alarm System Contractor II	All alarm systems except fire, plus electric locks
ES	Certified Limited Energy System Specialty	Low voltage up to 77V (but NOT alarm work)

Contractor Definition

Under Florida law, a "Contractor" means a person qualified to engage in the business of electrical or alarm system contracting pursuant to a certificate or registration issued by the department under Part II of Chapter 489, Florida Statutes.

EF/EG License Scope for Access Control

The alarm system contractor license scope specifically includes electric locks and access controls as ancillary components to alarm systems.

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

ADA Compliance for Access Control

Access control installations must comply with ADA requirements. Under the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design:

• 32 inches minimum: Clear opening width when door is open to 90 degrees
• 18 inches minimum: Clear space on latch side for front approach
• Power-operated doors: Systems requiring a "knowing act" (pushing button, using access control) must meet ANSI A156.19 standards

Permit Summary by System Type

System Type	Permit Required?	Notes
Wireless access control	No	Exempt under FL Statute 553.793
Hardwired card readers	Yes (streamlined)	Use uniform permit label
Electric locks/mag locks	Yes (streamlined)	May need fire alarm integration
Biometric systems	Yes if hardwired	Wireless exempt
Integrated with fire alarm	Yes	Additional fire permit may apply

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential

• Wireless systems: No permit required
• Hardwired systems: Streamlined permit label
• Alarm registration if monitored
• Licensed contractor still recommended

Commercial

• Permits required for hardwired systems
• Streamlined process for alarm-related work
• ADA compliance required for public access
• May require fire alarm integration for mag-locks
• Licensed EF, EG, or ES contractor required

Pro Tips for Orlando Access Control Projects

1. Consider wireless first: Wireless access control systems are completely exempt from permits under Florida law—this can significantly reduce project timeline and costs.
2. Use streamlined permitting: For hardwired systems, take advantage of Florida's uniform permit label system rather than full permit applications.
3. Plan for fire alarm integration: If installing mag-locks, they typically need to release on fire alarm—plan for this integration early.
4. Register monitored systems: If your system includes alarm monitoring, register with the City of Orlando to avoid response delays and false alarm issues.
5. Ensure ADA compliance: Commercial installations must meet accessibility requirements—factor this into your system design.
6. Verify contractor licensing: Ensure your contractor holds the appropriate Florida DBPR license (EF, EG, or ES) for the work scope.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Florida Permit Guides

• Florida Low Voltage License Requirements
• Orlando Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Orlando Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Miami Access Control Permit Requirements

Summary

Access control installations in Orlando have favorable permitting options. Wireless systems are completely exempt from permits under Florida Statute 553.793. Hardwired systems use a streamlined permit label process. If the system includes alarm monitoring features, register with the City of Orlando. All contractors must hold valid Florida DBPR licensing (EF, EG, or ES depending on scope).

Contact Orange County Permitting Services at permittingservices@ocfl.net or visit the Orange County Electrical Permit page for specific project guidance.