Security Camera Permit Requirements in Salt Lake City, Utah

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic installations. Salt Lake City does not require specific permits for security camera installations that use existing electrical infrastructure. However, if your installation requires new electrical circuits or significant modifications to the building, an electrical permit may be needed. Commercial alarm systems connected to police dispatch require registration through Salt Lake City Police Department.

When Is a Permit Required for Security Cameras?

Permit May Be Required:

• New electrical circuits for camera systems
• Installations requiring conduit through walls or structural elements
• Commercial systems integrated with burglar alarms (alarm permit)
• Large commercial deployments with significant electrical work
• Systems requiring building modifications

Typically Exempt:

• Residential plug-in security cameras
• Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras
• Wireless camera systems
• Video doorbells
• PoE cameras using existing network infrastructure
• Simple surface-mounted cameras

Salt Lake City Alarm Permit Requirements

If your security camera system is integrated with an alarm system that connects to police dispatch, you must register with Salt Lake City Police Department:

• Registration: Required through AlarmPermit.org
• Fee: No charge for permit registration
• Verification: Salt Lake City requires alarm verification before police dispatch

This is one of the only cities that requires verified response before dispatching officers.

What Contractor License Do You Need in Utah?

Utah regulates security system contractors through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL):

• Burglar Alarm Company Qualifier - Required for companies installing alarm systems
  • Minimum 3 years experience in alarm installation
  • 1 year in supervisory position
  • Must pass Burglar Alarm Company Qualifier Examination
  • Must pass Utah Burglar Alarm Law and Rule Examination
• Burglar Alarm Company Agent - Required for technicians
  • Must pass Certified Alarm Technician Level 1 exam (22-hour course)
  • Background check required
• Electrical Contractor License - Required if work involves electrical circuits

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

How Do You Apply for Permits When Required?

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 design and wiring diagrams (for electrical permits)
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license information
• Property owner authorization

What Are Typical Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Processing Time
Alarm Registration	Free	Immediate online
Minor Electrical Permit	$50-$100	1-3 business days
Commercial Electrical	$100-$300	3-7 business days

Most basic security camera installations do not require permits.

Utah Recording Laws to Know

Utah is a one-party consent state for audio recording, meaning:

• You can record conversations you are a party to
• Video recording on your own property is generally permitted
• Recording in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy is prohibited
• Notify employees of workplace surveillance

Position cameras to record only your property and public areas, not neighbors' private spaces.

What Is the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Requirements?

Residential Projects:

• Most DIY installations do not require permits
• Simple plug-and-play systems are permitted
• Alarm registration only needed if connected to dispatch
• Basic inspection if electrical permit pulled

Commercial Projects:

• May require electrical permits for complex installations
• Alarm permit required if connected to police monitoring
• Must comply with ADA for camera placement affecting accessibility
• Licensed contractor typically required
• Integration with existing systems may need additional review

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Register alarms early - Complete alarm permit registration before system goes live
• Understand verified response - Salt Lake City requires verification before dispatch
• Plan for altitude - Salt Lake City's elevation can affect some camera equipment
• Consider weather - Hot summers and cold winters require appropriate camera ratings
• Document installations - Keep records for warranty and service purposes
• Coordinate with building management - Commercial properties may have additional requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera 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 Resources

• Utah Low Voltage License Guide