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Access Control Permit Requirements in Salt Lake City, Utah

January 20, 2026
04:00 PM

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Access control permit guide for Salt Lake City, UT. Learn permit requirements, contractor licensing, and ADA compliance for access control systems.

Access Control Permit Requirements in Salt Lake City, Utah

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the scope of work. Salt Lake City may require electrical permits for access control installations involving new wiring, electrical connections, or modifications to doors and building systems. Low-voltage card readers and standalone keypads often do not require permits, but electric strikes and magnetic locks with electrical connections typically do.

When Is a Permit Required for Access Control?

Permit Typically Required:

  • Electric door strikes and magnetic locks with electrical connections
  • New electrical circuits for access control panels
  • Hardwired access control systems
  • Door modifications affecting fire-rated assemblies
  • Integration with fire alarm systems
  • Commercial installations with multiple controlled doors

Typically Exempt:

  • Battery-powered standalone keypad locks
  • Wireless access control devices
  • Simple key fob systems with plug-in power
  • Residential smart locks (battery-powered)

What Contractor License Do You Need in Utah?

Access control contractors in Utah must be licensed through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL):

  • Burglar Alarm Company Qualifier - For companies installing access control with alarm integration
  • Burglar Alarm Company Agent - For technicians
  • Electrical Contractor License - Required if work involves electrical circuits

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

How Do You Apply for Permits?

Salt Lake City Building Services:

  • Address: 349 South 200 East, Suite 100, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
  • Phone: (801) 535-6000
  • Online: slc.gov/buildingservices

Required Documentation:

  • Permit application form
  • System drawings showing door locations and wiring paths
  • Equipment specifications for locks, readers, and panels
  • Contractor license information
  • Property owner authorization

What Are Typical Fees and Processing Times?

Project Type Estimated Fee Processing Time
Residential (1-2 doors) $50-$100 1-3 business days
Small Commercial (3-10 doors) $100-$250 3-7 business days
Large Commercial (10+ doors) $250-$500 7-14 business days
Fire Door Modifications Additional $75-$150 Additional fire review

Fees based on project scope. Contact Building Services for current rates.

What Is the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Requirements?

Residential Projects:

  • Simpler permit process for single-family homes
  • Battery-powered smart locks often exempt
  • Lower fees and faster processing
  • Basic inspection of electrical connections

Commercial Projects:

  • ADA compliance required for door operators and timing
  • Fire code requirements for egress doors
  • Integration with fire alarm for fail-safe operation
  • May require fire marshal review
  • Central management system documentation
  • Multiple inspections may be required

Fire Code Considerations

Access control on fire-rated doors and egress paths requires special attention:

  • Fail-safe operation - Doors must unlock on fire alarm activation
  • Emergency egress - Exit devices must allow free egress at all times
  • Fire-rated hardware - Electric hardware must maintain door fire rating
  • Fire marshal approval - Required for doors on egress paths

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

  • Check door fire ratings - Modifications to fire-rated doors require approved hardware
  • Plan for ADA compliance - Commercial doors need proper timing and force settings
  • Coordinate with fire marshal - Get approval before installing on egress doors
  • Document fail-safe connections - Show how doors unlock on fire alarm
  • Consider power backup - UPS systems keep access control functional during outages
  • Plan for altitude and climate - Salt Lake City's conditions can affect equipment

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City

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#permits
#utah
#access-control
#licensing

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