Security Camera Permit Requirements in Salt Lake County, Utah

Installing security cameras in unincorporated Salt Lake County? Whether you're a contractor working on a commercial surveillance project or a business owner upgrading your property's security, understanding the local permit and registration requirements is essential for a compliant installation.

This guide covers everything you need to know about security camera permits in Salt Lake County, Utah—including when permits are required, alarm registration, contractor licensing, and the application process for unincorporated areas served by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD).

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone cameras. In Utah, you don't need a permit to install security cameras as a standalone system. However, if your camera system connects to a monitored alarm that dispatches police, alarm registration is required. Building permits may be required if the installation involves electrical modifications or is part of a larger construction project in unincorporated Salt Lake County areas.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Here's when you'll likely need permits for security camera installations in Salt Lake County:

• New construction - Camera systems installed as part of new building construction must be included in the overall building permit
• Commercial tenant improvements - Build-outs involving wall modifications or ceiling work typically need permits
• Electrical modifications - Any structure adding or modifying electrical requires a permit from MSD
• Structural penetrations - Penetrating fire-rated assemblies requires proper firestopping and inspection
• Monitored alarm integration - Systems connected to alarm monitoring require alarm permit registration

Does Salt Lake County Require Alarm Registration?

For unincorporated areas, alarm registration requirements may vary. Many residents and businesses in Salt Lake County areas are served by the Unified Police Department or local municipal police. Check with your local law enforcement agency for specific alarm permit requirements.

For Salt Lake City proper (not county), the Salt Lake City Police Department has specific requirements:

• Alarm permit required - Prior to operation of any alarm system
• No charge for permit - Free, does not expire until change in ownership
• Online registration - Available at SLCPD Alarm Permit Entry
• Verification required - Private guard responder shall confirm alarm event before police dispatch
• $150 penalty - For police response requests without valid alarm user permit

Do You Need a Contractor License?

Yes. Utah requires contractors performing security system installations to hold proper licensing through the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL):

• Burglar Alarm Company License - Required for installing alarm and security systems
• Burglar Alarm Company Agent - Must pass Certified Alarm Technician Level 1 exam (22-hour course)
• Low Voltage Technician License - For systems operating at 95 volts or less
• State registration required - Alarm companies must register name, address, and license number with local law enforcement

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

How Do You Apply for a Building Permit?

For unincorporated Salt Lake County areas (Magna, Kearns, Emigration Canyon, White City, Copperton, Brighton), permits are handled by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD):

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Gather required documents:

• Building permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Floor plans with cable pathways and equipment placement
• Specifications for cameras, NVR/DVR, and power requirements
• Single-line electrical diagram if running dedicated circuits

Step 2: Submit Application

Submit to the Greater Salt Lake MSD:

• Address: 860 W Levoy Drive, Suite 300, Taylorsville, UT 84123
• Website: MSD Building Services
• Inspection Hotline: (385) 910-5830
• Email: inspections@msd.utah.gov

Step 3: Plan Review

MSD reviews building, fire, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings to ensure compliance with existing building codes.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

Call the Building Inspection Hotline or email before 3:00 PM to schedule inspection for the following business day:

• Rough-in inspection - Before walls are closed
• Electrical inspection - If dedicated circuits are installed
• Final inspection - Upon project completion

What Are the Privacy Requirements?

Security camera installations in Salt Lake County must comply with Utah privacy laws:

Utah Privacy Laws

• No consent needed for public areas - You can install cameras in public spaces
• Private areas prohibited - Cameras cannot be placed where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Hidden cameras restricted - Post signs indicating surveillance is present

Audio Recording

Utah is a one-party consent state for audio recording. Consider using video-only cameras or posting clear notices about audio recording.

What About Residential vs Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

For single-family homes in Salt Lake County, security camera installations typically do not require permits when:

• Using PoE or low-voltage powered cameras
• No modifications to electrical service or panels
• No structural changes to the building
• Structure is under 200 sq ft (MSD threshold for accessory structures)

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial projects often have additional requirements:

• Tenant improvement permits for build-outs
• Fire alarm integration may trigger additional permits
• Access control integration requirements
• Any structure over 120 sq ft (commercial threshold) with electrical requires permit

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Determine jurisdiction first - Confirm whether the location is in unincorporated county (MSD) or an incorporated city
• Use PoE cameras when possible - Eliminates need for dedicated power circuits and simplifies installation
• Register alarms before monitoring - Ensure client has valid alarm permit before connecting to central monitoring
• Document camera placement - Take photos and create as-built drawings for future reference
• Consider cybersecurity - Segment camera networks from production networks for commercial installations
• Use outdoor-rated equipment - IP66 or higher ratings for exterior cameras in Utah's climate
• Schedule inspections early - Call MSD before 3 PM for next-day inspection

Contact Information

Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD)

• Address: 860 W Levoy Drive, Suite 300, Taylorsville, UT 84123
• Inspection Hotline: (385) 910-5830
• Email: inspections@msd.utah.gov
• Planning/Zoning: (385) 468-6700
• Website: MSD Building Services

Salt Lake County Zoning

• Website: Salt Lake County Zoning, Construction & Permits

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Related Permit Guides for Salt Lake County

Looking for other low-voltage permit guides in Salt Lake County? Check back soon as we expand our coverage of Utah jurisdictions.