Security Camera Permit Requirements in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Quick Answer: Pittsburgh does not require a specific permit for installing security cameras on private property. However, contractors must comply with Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (UCC), and audio recording is strictly regulated under state wiretap laws. Public-facing camera systems have additional requirements under Pittsburgh's Chapter 681 ordinance.

When Is a Permit Required?

For most residential and commercial security camera installations in Pittsburgh, no dedicated permit is required for the camera system itself. However, related work may trigger permit requirements:

Permit Typically NOT Required

• Standalone security camera installations (wireless or wired)
• Low voltage wiring that does not penetrate fire-rated assemblies
• Camera systems using existing electrical infrastructure
• Residential doorbell cameras and basic surveillance systems

Permit MAY Be Required

• Electrical work requiring new circuits or panel modifications
• Structural penetrations for conduit runs
• Installations in historic districts (requires additional review)
• Commercial projects involving significant electrical loads
• Camera poles or mounting structures requiring foundation work

When in doubt, contact Pittsburgh's Permits, Licenses and Inspections (PLI) department at (412) 255-2621 to confirm requirements for your specific project.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Pennsylvania does not have a statewide license specifically for low voltage or security camera installers. However, contractors working in Pittsburgh should be aware of these requirements:

Pennsylvania State Requirements

• No state low voltage license: Pennsylvania does not require a dedicated license for security camera installation
• Uniform Construction Code (UCC) compliance: All installations must meet UCC standards
• Business registration: Contractors must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State
• Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation insurance recommended

Pittsburgh Local Requirements

• Contractor registration: Verify current registration requirements with PLI
• Home improvement contractor registration: May apply for residential projects over certain thresholds

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

Pittsburgh Public Security Camera Ordinance

Pittsburgh has specific regulations under Chapter 681 of the Code of Ordinances governing public security camera systems. While this primarily applies to city-operated and neighborhood watch cameras, contractors should understand these rules:

Key Requirements

Requirement	Details
Camera Direction	Must be directed at public right-of-way only
Audio Recording	Prohibited on all public security cameras
Approval Process	Requires Chief of Police approval for public cameras
Purpose	Crime deterrence and law enforcement support only

Private vs. Public Cameras

Private security cameras on your own property are not subject to Chapter 681. However, they must still comply with Pennsylvania privacy laws and cannot record areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Pennsylvania Wiretap Law: Critical Audio Requirements

Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state. This has major implications for security camera installations:

• Audio recording requires consent: All parties must consent to audio recording
• Video-only is safer: Disable audio recording on cameras in most scenarios
• Penalties are severe: Violations are third-degree felonies with potential prison time
• Signs are not enough: Posted notices do not constitute consent for audio

Best Practice: Configure all security cameras with audio recording disabled unless you have a specific, documented consent process in place.

Application Process

If your project requires electrical or building permits, follow this process:

Step 1: Determine Permit Need

Contact PLI or use OneStopPGH to verify if your specific installation requires permits.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Site plan showing camera locations
• Electrical diagrams (if new circuits required)
• Product specifications
• Contractor registration documentation

Step 3: Submit Application

All permit applications are submitted electronically through OneStopPGH.

Step 4: Schedule Inspection

If electrical work is involved, schedule inspection through PLI after installation is complete.

Contact Information

Pittsburgh Permits, Licenses and Inspections
City-County Building
414 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Phone: (412) 255-2621
Online Portal: OneStopPGH

Fees and Timeline

Item	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Security camera installation (no permit)	$0	Immediate
Electrical permit (if required)	$50-150	3-5 business days
Building permit (structural work)	Varies by scope	5-10 business days
Electrical inspection	Included in permit fee	Schedule after completion

Fees are estimates and subject to change. Confirm current fees with PLI.

Residential vs. Commercial Considerations

Residential Installations

• Generally straightforward with minimal permit requirements
• Focus on proper placement to avoid recording neighbors' private areas
• Doorbell cameras and basic systems rarely need permits
• HOA rules may impose additional restrictions

Commercial Installations

• May require coordination with building management
• Larger systems may trigger electrical permit requirements
• Employee notification requirements under Pennsylvania law
• Consider integration with alarm monitoring systems
• Fire-rated assembly penetrations require permits

Pro Tips from the Field

Document Everything: Even when permits aren't required, maintain installation records including camera locations, wiring diagrams, and product specifications. This protects both you and your client.

Address Audio Upfront: Have a clear conversation with clients about Pennsylvania's wiretap laws before installation. Recommend disabling audio recording to avoid legal complications.

Check Historic District Status: Pittsburgh has several historic districts with additional review requirements. Verify the property's status before beginning work.

Coordinate with Alarm Companies: If the camera system integrates with monitored alarms, ensure the alarm company has proper registration with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for auto-dialing capabilities.

Get it in Writing: When PLI confirms no permit is needed, document the conversation including the date, representative name, and project details.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Pittsburgh before they reach bid boards?

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Related Guides

• Pennsylvania Low Voltage License Requirements
• Philadelphia Security Camera Permit Requirements

Last updated: January 2026. Information is provided for general guidance. Always verify current requirements with Pittsburgh PLI and Pennsylvania state agencies before beginning work.