Access Control Permit Requirements in Provo, Utah

Installing an access control system in Provo? Whether you're upgrading a commercial facility with card readers, installing biometric systems, or adding electronic locks to a multi-tenant building, understanding the local permit and licensing requirements is essential for a compliant installation.

This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know about access control permits in Provo, Utah—including when permits are required, contractor licensing, and the application process.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone access control. Standalone access control installations using low-voltage wiring (under 50 volts) typically do not require separate electrical permits in Provo. However, permits may be required if the installation involves electrical modifications, door hardware changes affecting fire egress, or integration with fire alarm systems.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Here's when you'll likely need permits for access control installations in Provo:

• New construction - Access control installed as part of new building construction must be included in the overall building permit
• Fire alarm integration - Systems that unlock doors on fire alarm activation require fire alarm permits and inspections
• Door hardware modifications - Replacing doors or hardware that affects fire egress may require building permits
• Electrical modifications - Installing dedicated circuits for electric strikes, mag locks, or access control panels
• Structural penetrations - Routing cables through fire-rated assemblies requires proper firestopping
• ADA compliance changes - Modifying doors or adding automatic operators for accessibility

What Work Is Typically Exempt?

Under Utah Code Section 58-55-305, the following low-voltage access control installations are generally exempt from electrical permits:

• Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits under 50 volts
• Card reader installations using existing door hardware
• Keypad and biometric reader installations
• PoE-powered access control devices
• Wireless access control components
• Communication wiring for access control panels

Important: Even when electrical permits aren't required, always verify with Provo Community Development whether your specific project scope needs permits, especially for door hardware or fire integration.

Does Provo Require Alarm Registration?

Access control systems that dispatch police or integrate with alarm monitoring may be subject to Provo's alarm ordinance:

• Alarm permit may be required - If your access control system is connected to a monitored alarm that dispatches emergency services
• False alarm ordinance - Provo enforces escalating fines for excessive false alarms, typically $50 for the third false alarm within a calendar year
• Registration fee - Approximately $25 annual permit fee for businesses with monitored systems

Note: Standalone access control systems that only control door access (without alarm monitoring that dispatches police) typically do not require alarm registration. Contact Provo City at (801) 852-6000 to confirm.

Do You Need a Contractor License?

Yes. Utah requires contractors performing access control work to hold proper licensing through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL):

• Low Voltage Technician License - For systems operating at 95 volts or less
• Burglar Alarm Company License - If installing systems that connect to alarm monitoring
• Minimum 4 years experience - Required for low voltage license
• Pass DOPL written exam - Covers access control, fire alarms, security systems, and structured cabling

For complete licensing requirements, see our Utah Low Voltage License Guide.

Verify Contractor Licenses

Building owners and property managers should verify contractors hold valid Utah licenses through the Utah DOPL License Search.

How Do You Apply for a Permit?

If your access control project requires permits, here's the process:

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Gather required documents:

• Building permit application (if door modifications)
• Floor plans showing reader and panel locations
• Door schedule identifying hardware changes
• Single-line diagrams for power and communication
• Fire alarm integration drawings (if applicable)
• ADA compliance documentation for automatic operators

Step 2: Submit Application

Submit through Provo's online portal or in person:

• Online: Provo Online Permit Portal
• In Person: Provo Community Development, 351 W Center Street, Provo, UT 84601
• Building Division Phone: (801) 852-6428

Step 3: Plan Review

Plans are reviewed for code compliance including:

• Fire egress requirements
• ADA accessibility standards
• Fire alarm integration compliance
• Electrical code requirements

Step 4: Inspections

Schedule required inspections:

• Rough-in inspection - Before walls are closed
• Fire alarm inspection - If integrated with fire system
• Final inspection - Upon project completion

What About Fire Alarm Integration?

Access control systems often integrate with fire alarm systems for emergency egress. This integration has specific requirements:

Free Egress Requirements

• Fail-safe operation - Doors on egress paths must unlock on fire alarm activation
• Power failure unlock - Egress doors typically must fail unlocked
• Manual release - Request-to-exit devices must allow immediate egress

Permit Requirements

• Fire alarm permits required for integration modifications
• State Fire Marshal certified technicians must perform fire alarm work
• Testing and documentation requirements per NFPA 72

What About Residential vs Commercial Projects?

Residential Access Control

For single-family homes in Provo, access control installations typically do not require permits when:

• Using low-voltage powered devices
• Not modifying existing door hardware structurally
• Not affecting fire egress from the home
• Installing smart locks, video doorbells, or gate access

Commercial Access Control

Commercial projects have additional considerations:

• ADA compliance - Automatic door operators must meet accessibility standards
• Fire egress - Cannot impede emergency evacuation
• Industry requirements - Healthcare (HIPAA), financial (PCI DSS), and other regulated industries may have specific security requirements
• Insurance requirements - Many policies require specific security measures for coverage

Common Access Control Technologies

Modern access control systems in Provo installations include:

Technology	Common Applications	Permit Considerations
Card Readers (Proximity/Smart Card)	Commercial offices, multi-tenant	Typically exempt
Biometric (Fingerprint/Face)	High-security facilities	Typically exempt
Keypads/PIN Entry	Gates, secondary doors	Typically exempt
Electric Strikes/Mag Locks	Controlled entry points	May need permit if affecting egress
Automatic Door Operators	ADA compliance, high-traffic	Building permit often required
Telephone Entry Systems	Multi-tenant, gated communities	Typically exempt

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify fire egress requirements first - Always confirm door hardware doesn't impede emergency egress before installation
• Coordinate with fire alarm contractor - If integrating with fire systems, involve qualified fire alarm technicians early
• Document door schedules - Create detailed records of all hardware changes for building management
• Consider power failure scenarios - Plan for fail-safe vs fail-secure based on door function and egress requirements
• Use UL-listed equipment - Ensure all access control hardware meets applicable standards
• Plan network infrastructure - IP-based systems need proper network segmentation for security
• Get it in writing - When the building department confirms no permit is required, document the conversation

Contact Provo Community Development

For questions about permit requirements for your specific access control project:

• Address: 351 W Center Street, Provo, UT 84601
• Building Division: (801) 852-6428
• General City Line: (801) 852-6000 or 311
• Website: Provo Licensing and Permits

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Provo before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Utah and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Provo

• Security Camera Permits in Provo
• Fire Alarm Permits in Provo