Security Camera Permit Requirements in Pima County, Arizona

Quick Answer: Pima County does not require a specific security camera permit for most installations. However, contractors must hold a valid Arizona ROC license (C-11 Electrical or C-67 Low Voltage), and installations in incorporated cities like Tucson require alarm system registration.

When Are Permits Required?

Security camera installations in Pima County fall under several regulatory categories:

• No permit typically required for standalone camera systems without alarm monitoring
• Electrical permit required when installing new dedicated circuits or significant electrical work
• Alarm registration required in City of Tucson for monitored systems that dispatch police/fire
• Building permit may be required for structural modifications (mounting poles, enclosures)

Incorporated vs. Unincorporated Areas

Pima County contains several incorporated cities with their own requirements:

Jurisdiction	Alarm Registration	Notes
City of Tucson	Required	Annual registration through Tucson Police Department
Oro Valley	Check locally	Contact Oro Valley Police Department
Marana	Check locally	Contact Marana Police Department
Sahuarita	Check locally	Contact Sahuarita Police Department
Unincorporated Pima County	Not required	County jurisdiction - verify before installation

Arizona Contractor Licensing Requirements

All security camera installations must be performed by properly licensed contractors. Arizona requires:

• ROC C-11 (Electrical) - For installations involving electrical work
• ROC C-67 (Low Voltage Communication Systems) - For low voltage security installations
• CR-67 (Residential) - For residential-only low voltage work

Additionally, if your company monitors alarm systems, you need:

• Arizona DPS Alarm Agent Certification - Required for individuals
• Alarm Business License - Required for companies providing monitoring services

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

Pima County Permit Application Process

When electrical permits are required, follow this process:

Step 1: Determine Permit Need

Contact Pima County Development Services to verify if your specific installation requires a permit:

• Phone: (520) 724-9000
• Website: pima.gov/Permits
• Address: 201 N. Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

If a permit is required, gather:

• Site plan showing camera locations
• Electrical load calculations (if new circuits)
• Equipment specifications
• Proof of contractor licensing (ROC number)

Step 3: Submit Application

Applications can be submitted:

• Online: Through the Pima County online permit portal
• In Person: At Development Services office
• By Mail: For simple permits

Step 4: Inspection

Schedule inspection after installation completion. Inspectors verify:

• Proper mounting and weatherproofing
• Electrical connections meet code
• Cable management and protection

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
Electrical Permit (minor)	$50-$100	Simple installations
Electrical Permit (commercial)	$100-$300+	Based on project value
Plan Review	Varies	Required for commercial projects
Tucson Alarm Registration	$25-$50	Annual fee for monitored systems
Processing Time	1-5 business days	Simple permits often same-day

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• Typically exempt from permits for camera-only systems
• Electrical permit needed only for new dedicated circuits
• Alarm registration required in Tucson if monitored
• HOA approval may be required in planned communities

Commercial Projects

• More likely to require electrical permits
• Plan review often required for larger systems
• Must comply with ADA accessibility requirements
• Fire code compliance for cable runs in commercial spaces
• May need coordination with building management

Arizona Privacy Considerations

Security camera installations must comply with Arizona privacy laws:

• No audio recording without consent (Arizona is a one-party consent state for audio)
• No cameras in private areas where reasonable expectation of privacy exists
• Signage recommended for commercial properties notifying of video surveillance
• Neighbor privacy - cameras should not primarily capture neighboring properties

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first - Unincorporated Pima County has different requirements than Tucson or other cities
• Document everything - Take photos before, during, and after installation for warranty and liability purposes
• Use UV-resistant cables - Arizona sun degrades standard cables quickly
• Plan for heat - Outdoor equipment must handle 115°F+ temperatures
• Consider monsoons - Proper weatherproofing essential for outdoor cameras
• Register alarms proactively - Avoid false alarm fines in Tucson

Common Installation Scenarios

Scenario 1: Basic Residential System

Installing 4-8 cameras on existing circuits with DVR/NVR - typically no permit required, but register with Tucson PD if monitored.

Scenario 2: New Construction Commercial

Installing comprehensive security system during build-out - coordinate with general contractor, include in electrical permit scope.

Scenario 3: Retrofit Commercial

Adding cameras to existing building - may need electrical permit if new circuits required, verify with Pima County Development Services.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Arizona Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• Browse All Permit Guides

Summary

Pima County security camera installations are relatively straightforward for contractors with proper ROC licensing. Key points to remember:

• Most camera-only installations do not require permits
• Electrical permits needed for new circuit work
• Alarm registration required in City of Tucson
• Always verify jurisdiction (incorporated city vs. unincorporated county)
• ROC C-67 or C-11 license required for all installations

When in doubt, contact Pima County Development Services at (520) 724-9000 to verify requirements for your specific project.