Access Control Permit Requirements in Prince George's County, Maryland
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Complete guide to access control permit requirements in Prince George's County, Maryland including contractor licensing, DPIE permits, and alarm registration.
Access Control Permit Requirements in Prince George's County, Maryland
Installing electronic access control systems in Prince George's County requires understanding both state licensing requirements and local permit processes. This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know about access control permits in PG County.
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?
Generally yes. Access control installations in Prince George's County typically require an electrical trade permit when the work involves connection to building electrical systems. Additionally, if the access control system includes alarm monitoring capabilities, you must register the system with the county's False Alarm Reduction Unit.
What Qualifies as Access Control Work?
Access control systems regulate entry to buildings and secured areas. Common installations include:
- Card readers and key fob systems
- Keypad entry systems
- Biometric scanners (fingerprint, facial recognition)
- Electric door strikes and magnetic locks
- Gate access systems
- Intercom and video intercom systems
- Turnstiles and mantraps
Do You Need an Electrical Permit for Access Control?
The Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) requires electrical trade permits for work involving electrical connections. Access control systems fall under this category when:
- Installing new electrical circuits to power door hardware
- Connecting to existing building electrical systems
- Running conduit or electrical wiring
- Installing power supplies that connect to building mains
Low-voltage wiring (under 50 volts) for data communication between readers and controllers may be exempt from electrical permits in some cases, but the power supply connections typically require permitting.
What Are the Contractor Licensing Requirements?
Maryland requires specific licensing for access control installation work:
Security Systems Agency License
The Maryland State Police Licensing Division requires a Security Systems Agency License for any individual or firm engaging in the business of providing security systems services. This includes electronic access control installation.
Requirements include:
- Fidelity bond or commercial general liability insurance of at least $50,000
- Color passport-style photograph submitted through the licensing portal
- Two signed recommendations from reputable citizens
- Criminal history background investigation
- Processing time of approximately 90 days
The license expires three years after issuance, with renewals staggered for January or July expiration dates.
County Restricted License Option
Prince George's County offers restricted licenses specifically for low voltage work, authorizing installation, maintenance, and repair of equipment operating at 50 volts or less. However, if access control work requires connection to building electrical systems over 50 volts, a state electrical license is required.
For complete details on Maryland licensing, see our Maryland Low Voltage License Guide.
How Do You Apply for an Access Control Permit?
As of July 15, 2024, all building and trade permits in Prince George's County must be obtained through the DPIE Momentum online permit system.
Application Process
- Create an account on the DPIE Momentum portal
- Select "Electrical Trade Permit" for your application type
- Provide contractor license information
- Submit project details and scope of work
- Upload required documentation (plans, specifications)
- Pay applicable fees
- Schedule inspection upon completion
Required Documentation
- Valid contractor license credentials
- Proof of insurance
- System drawings or plans
- Equipment specifications
- Property owner authorization
What Are the Fees and Timeline?
| Item | Cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Trade Permit | Varies by scope | 1-5 business days |
| Alarm System Registration | $20.00 | Initial + every 2 years |
| Inspection | Included with permit | Schedule upon completion |
| Security Systems Agency License | Contact MSP | Approximately 90 days |
Important: Penalties of $1,000 per day can be assessed for working without or outside the scope of a permit.
Is Alarm Registration Required for Access Control?
If your access control system includes alarm monitoring or intrusion detection capabilities, you must register with the Prince George's County False Alarm Reduction Unit. Under Section 9-211 of the County Code:
- Initial registration fee: $20.00
- Renewal every two years: $20.00
- False alarm fines begin at the 4th activation
False Alarm Fee Schedule
| False Alarms (12-month period) | Fine |
|---|---|
| 1st, 2nd, or 3rd | No fee |
| 4th, 5th, or 6th | $50.00 |
| 7th, 8th, or 9th | $100.00 |
| 10th, 11th, or 12th | $150.00 |
| 13th or greater | $200.00 |
After six or more false alarms in a 12-month period, the system must be recertified by a licensed contractor with a $25.00 recertification fee.
Contact the False Alarm Reduction Unit at 855-809-2056 or visit 1300 Mercantile Lane, Suite 108, Largo, Maryland 20774.
Residential vs. Commercial Access Control
Residential Installations
Homeowner access control projects (smart locks, doorbell cameras with access features, gate keypads) may have simplified requirements:
- Low-voltage wireless systems may not require electrical permits
- Alarm registration still required if monitoring is included
- Homeowner can perform some work without contractor license
Commercial Installations
Commercial access control projects have stricter requirements:
- Licensed contractor required for all installation work
- Electrical permits required for hardwired systems
- May require coordination with fire marshal for egress compliance
- ADA accessibility requirements may apply
- Multi-agency approvals may be needed for larger projects
Pro Tips from Contractors
- Verify license requirements early: The 90-day processing time for Security Systems Agency licenses means you need to plan ahead for new market entry
- Use the online system: All permits now go through Momentum - paper applications are no longer accepted
- Check municipality requirements: Prince George's County has 27 municipalities with potentially varying requirements
- Document everything: Keep copies of permits, inspection reports, and alarm registrations for your records
- Coordinate with other trades: Access control often requires coordination with electrical, fire alarm, and IT contractors
Key Contacts
Prince George's County DPIE
Website: princegeorgescountymd.gov/dpie
Online Permits: dpiepermits.princegeorgescountymd.gov
Maryland State Police Licensing Division
Security Systems Agency License: mdsp.maryland.gov
False Alarm Reduction Unit
Phone: 855-809-2056
Address: 1300 Mercantile Lane, Suite 108, Largo, MD 20774
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Prince George's County before they reach bid boards?
LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Maryland and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.
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