Security Camera Permit Requirements in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania

Quick Answer: Philadelphia County (coterminous with the City of Philadelphia) typically exempts low voltage security camera wiring from electrical permits in one-and-two family dwellings. However, commercial installations may require permits, and all electrical work must be performed by licensed contractors. Register business cameras with SafeCam to assist Philadelphia Police.

When Do You Need a Security Camera Permit in Philadelphia County?

Philadelphia County follows the City of Philadelphia's permit requirements since the county and city boundaries are identical. Security camera permit requirements depend on the building type and installation scope.

Permit Exemptions

According to Philadelphia Administrative Code Title 4-A-301.2.3, the following work is exempt from electrical permits:

• Low voltage wiring in one-and-two family dwellings
• Low voltage wiring in Group U structures (utility buildings, garages, sheds)
• Minor repairs and maintenance

Projects That May Require Permits

• Commercial building security camera installations
• Multi-family residential buildings (3+ units)
• Systems requiring new electrical circuits
• Installations involving structural penetrations
• Integrated systems tied to fire alarm or access control

Even when permits are not required, all electrical work including low voltage wiring must be performed by a licensed electrical contractor in Philadelphia.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Philadelphia has specific licensing requirements that differ from many other Pennsylvania municipalities.

Electrical Contractor License Required

You need an electrical contractor license to do electrical work in Philadelphia, and this includes low-voltage wiring. Key requirements include:

• Active City of Philadelphia electrical contractor license
• Current on all City of Philadelphia taxes
• Current insurance on file with L&I (Department of Licenses and Inspections)
• Licensed electrical inspection agency for all inspections

Getting Licensed in Philadelphia

To obtain an electrical contractor license:

• Pass the required examination
• Meet experience requirements
• Provide proof of insurance
• Register with the City and pay applicable fees

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

Pennsylvania Two-Party Consent Law

Pennsylvania has some of the strictest surveillance laws in the United States. Understanding these laws is critical for security camera installers and users.

Audio Recording Restrictions

Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state for audio recording. This means:

• ALL parties must consent to be recorded
• Intercepting oral communication via video camera is a third-degree felony
• Even law enforcement requires court approval for many surveillance situations

Video Recording Guidelines

Video surveillance without audio is legal in locations where there is no "reasonable expectation of privacy." Permitted locations include:

• Public areas of commercial properties
• Parking lots and garages
• Building entrances and lobbies
• Retail floor areas
• Warehouses and loading docks

Prohibited Recording Locations

Never install cameras in areas with reasonable privacy expectations:

• Bathrooms and restrooms
• Locker rooms and changing areas
• Private break rooms
• Areas pointing into neighboring private property

Business Security Camera Program

Philadelphia offers the Business Security Camera Program to encourage external camera installations on commercial properties.

Program Benefits

• Citywide funding: Up to 75% of eligible costs, maximum $3,000 per property
• Targeted Commercial Corridor funding: Up to 100% of eligible costs in designated areas

Requirements

• Business must be registered and licensed with the City
• Current on all City taxes
• At least one estimate from a licensed contractor (two recommended)
• Targeted corridor applications require approved contractor estimates

SafeCam Registration

Businesses are encouraged to register cameras with the Philadelphia Police Department's SafeCam program. Registration:

• Takes only a few minutes
• Does not provide anyone direct access to cameras or video
• Allows police to contact the business to view footage during investigations
• Helps solve crimes and improve neighborhood safety

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Determine If Permit Required

Review exemptions under Title 4-A-301.2.3. When in doubt, contact L&I at (215) 686-8686.

Step 2: Hire a Licensed Contractor

Only licensed electrical contractors can perform electrical work in Philadelphia, including low voltage installations.

Step 3: Apply for Permit (If Required)

Submit applications through:

• Online: eCLIPSE system at eclipse.phila.gov
• Virtual appointment: Schedule if you need help with online filing
• Questions: Submit online request to 311 or call (215) 686-8686

Step 4: Inspection

The owner or owner's agent must hire a licensed electrical inspection agency to perform all required inspections.

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Amount
Electrical Permit (under 200 amps)	Contact L&I
Inspection Fees	Varies by agency
Contractor License	Contact L&I

Processing Timeline: Simple permits can be processed within days through eCLIPSE. Complex projects requiring plan review may take 2-4 weeks.

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Homeowners can install security cameras without obtaining consent from neighbors or passersby, provided cameras:

• Monitor only their own property
• Do not point into neighbors' private spaces
• Avoid recording areas with privacy expectations
• Comply with audio recording restrictions

Low voltage wiring in one-and-two family dwellings is typically permit-exempt, but work must still be performed by licensed contractors.

Commercial Installations

Commercial security camera systems require more consideration:

• May require electrical permits depending on scope
• Must use licensed contractors
• Should register with SafeCam program
• May qualify for Business Security Camera Program funding
• Must notify employees about camera use and placement

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Disable audio recording: Configure cameras to record video only to avoid two-party consent violations
• Document camera placement: Maintain records showing cameras do not capture private areas
• Post signage: Visible signs notify visitors of surveillance and can deter crime
• Register with SafeCam: Help customers register - it increases system value and community safety
• Check funding eligibility: Many businesses qualify for the Business Security Camera Program
• Coordinate with L&I: When unsure about permit requirements, contact the department before starting work

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Department of Licenses and Inspections	(215) 686-8686
311 (General Questions)	311 or online request
eCLIPSE Permit System	eclipse.phila.gov
SafeCam Registration	phila.gov/programs/business-security-camera-program

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Pennsylvania Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Philadelphia City, PA
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Pittsburgh, PA
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Allentown, PA
• Pennsylvania Low Voltage Contractor License Guide