Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona

Quick Answer: Most structured cabling and data network installations in Phoenix do not require permits when the work is limited to low voltage wiring (under 50 volts) and uses existing pathways. However, permits may be required when new electrical circuits are added, penetrations through fire-rated assemblies occur, or work involves plenum spaces. All contractors must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 or R-67 Low Voltage Communication Systems license for projects over $1,000.

When Are Permits Required?

Phoenix follows the International Building Code (IBC), National Electrical Code (NEC), and local amendments. Structured cabling is classified as low voltage communication systems and has different permit thresholds than standard electrical work.

Permit Required

• New electrical circuits for network equipment (PoE switches, server rooms)
• Penetrations through fire-rated walls, floors, or ceilings
• Cable installations in plenum spaces requiring plenum-rated cable
• New conduit runs requiring core drilling
• Telecommunications rooms requiring HVAC modifications
• Installations integrated with fire alarm or life safety systems
• Fiber optic backbone installations in new construction

Permit Typically NOT Required

• Low voltage cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6A) in existing pathways
• Adding drops to existing cable tray or J-hooks
• Patch panel installations in existing telecom rooms
• Wireless access point installations using existing cable infrastructure
• Equipment connections using cord-and-plug to existing receptacles
• Cable replacements and upgrades in existing pathways

According to Phoenix's Work Exempt from Permit guidelines, installation or replacement of equipment manufactured and approved for cord-and-plug-connection to existing receptacles is exempt from permit requirements.

Arizona Contractor Licensing Requirements

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC) requires licensing for structured cabling work.

Required License Classifications

License	Type	Scope
C-67	Commercial	Low Voltage Communication Systems including data cabling, telephone systems, sound systems
R-67	Residential	Low Voltage Communication Systems for residential properties
CR-67	Dual	Combined commercial and residential low voltage scope

The C-67 classification authorizes installation, service, and repair of telephone systems, sound systems, intercommunication systems, public addressing systems, television or video systems, and low voltage signaling devices—all components of modern structured cabling systems.

License Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 2 years in the low voltage trade
• Examinations: Arizona Statutes and Rules Exam (SRE) plus C-67 trade exam (60 questions, 70% passing score)
• Bond: $15,000 for commercial (C-67), $9,000 for residential (R-67)
• Background check: Required for all applicants

For comprehensive licensing information, see our Arizona Low Voltage License Guide.

When Is a License Required?

Arizona law requires a contractor license when:

• Labor and materials exceed $1,000, OR
• A permit is required (regardless of project cost)

Permit Application Process

When your structured cabling project requires a permit, follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine Permit Type

Structured cabling permits typically fall under:

• Low Voltage Permit: For cable-only installations requiring inspection
• Electrical Permit: When new circuits or electrical work is included
• Building Permit: When structural penetrations or modifications occur

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Floor plans showing cable pathways and drop locations
• Riser diagrams for multi-floor installations
• Equipment specifications for active components
• Firestopping details for rated assemblies
• Contractor license number (AZ ROC)

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply through the Phoenix PDD Online Portal or in person:

City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department
200 W. Washington Street, 2nd Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: (602) 262-7811

Step 4: Inspection

Schedule inspection after installation. Inspectors verify:

• Cable installation per NEC Article 800 (Communications Circuits)
• Proper support and pathway compliance
• Firestopping of penetrations
• Plenum-rated cable in air handling spaces

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Fee	Timeline
Low Voltage Permit	$75 - $200	1-3 business days
Electrical Permit (with circuits)	$100 - $400+	3-10 business days
Plan Review (large projects)	$150 - $500+	5-15 business days
Inspection	Included with permit	Schedule within 24-48 hours

Note: Fees vary based on project scope. Contact PDD for exact pricing.

Code Requirements for Structured Cabling

NEC Article 800 - Communications Circuits

• Cables must be listed and labeled for intended use
• Proper separation from power conductors required
• Grounding and bonding per NEC 800.100
• Support intervals per manufacturer specifications

NEC Article 770 - Optical Fiber Cables

• Cables installed in neat and workmanlike manner per NEC 770.24
• Exposed cables on ceilings and walls must be supported by building structure
• Protection from physical damage required

Plenum Requirements

• Spaces used for air handling require plenum-rated (CMP) cable
• Riser-rated (CMR) cable acceptable in vertical shafts
• General-purpose (CM) cable for other areas

Firestopping

• All penetrations through fire-rated assemblies must be firestopped
• Use listed firestop systems rated for cable penetrations
• Documentation and labeling required

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Structured Cabling

• Generally does not require permits for low voltage wiring
• R-67 license required for work over $1,000
• Homeowners may perform their own work (no license required for owner-occupied residential)
• New construction typically includes rough-in inspection

Commercial Structured Cabling

• Permits may be required depending on scope
• C-67 license required for all commercial work over $1,000
• Compliance with commercial building codes mandatory
• BICSI standards recommended for design and installation
• Fluke or equivalent certification testing typically required

Industry Standards

While not code requirements, Phoenix commercial projects typically follow these standards:

• ANSI/TIA-568: Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard
• ANSI/TIA-569: Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
• ANSI/TIA-606: Administration Standard for Telecommunications Infrastructure
• BICSI TDMM: Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Document everything — Provide labeled pathways, as-builts, and certification results for every project
• Plan for growth — Install conduit and pathway capacity beyond current requirements
• Verify plenum vs. non-plenum spaces — Inspect above ceiling tiles before specifying cable type
• Coordinate with other trades — Cable pathways often conflict with HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
• Test and certify — Fluke certification provides documentation and identifies problems before handoff
• Firestop as you go — Document all penetrations with photos and firestop product data sheets

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when structured cabling projects hit permits in Phoenix before they reach bid boards?

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Related Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Phoenix, Arizona

Summary

Most structured cabling installations in Phoenix are exempt from permits when limited to low voltage wiring in existing pathways. Permits are required when electrical circuits are added or fire-rated assemblies are penetrated. All contractors performing work over $1,000 must hold an Arizona ROC C-67 (commercial) or R-67 (residential) license.

For questions about specific permit requirements, contact Phoenix Planning and Development at (602) 262-7811.