Security Camera Permit Requirements in San Bernardino County, California

Quick Answer: Most residential security camera installations in unincorporated San Bernardino County don't require permits. However, installations involving electrical work may need permits through the County's Land Use Services Building and Safety Division. Commercial properties and monitored alarm systems have additional requirements. Check the EZ Online Permitting (EZOP) portal for specific project guidance.

Understanding San Bernardino County Jurisdiction

San Bernardino County is the largest county in the United States by area, covering over 20,000 square miles. It includes 24 incorporated cities and vast unincorporated areas. This guide covers the unincorporated areas governed by San Bernardino County agencies.

If your property is within city limits (such as the City of San Bernardino, Ontario, or Fontana), contact that city's building department and police department for specific requirements.

Building Permits for Security Camera Installations

San Bernardino County Land Use Services - Building and Safety Division enforces building standards adopted by California and the County, including the California Electrical Code.

When Permits Are NOT Required

• Wireless security camera installations
• Battery-powered or solar cameras
• Plug-in cameras using existing outlets
• Minor repairs to existing systems

When Permits ARE Required

Electrical system installations or modifications require a separate permit. This includes:

• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Hardwired camera systems with new wiring runs
• Commercial surveillance system installations
• Fire alarm system installations or modifications
• Low voltage work requiring new electrical infrastructure

Permit Fee Structure

Electrical permit fees in San Bernardino County include:

• Base permit fee according to current schedule
• Two inspections included with each permit
• Re-inspection fee for additional inspections
• Intake processing fee applied to each electrical permit

How to Apply for Permits

Online Portal

Use the EZ Online Permitting (EZOP) website to find project information, handouts, and descriptions of development and construction-related permits.

Submit applications through the Accela Citizen Access Portal.

In-Person

San Bernardino County Land Use Services - Building and Safety

• Address: 385 N. Arrowhead Avenue, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Website: lus.sbcounty.gov
• EZOP Portal: wp.sbcounty.gov/ezop

Fire Alarm Permits

If your security camera system integrates with fire alarm components, separate fire alarm permits are required through the County Fire Department.

Fire alarm permits cover:

• New fire alarm system installations
• Modifications to existing fire alarm systems
• Integration of surveillance with fire safety systems

Alarm System Requirements

Requirements for monitored alarm systems vary between unincorporated County areas and incorporated cities within San Bernardino County.

Unincorporated Areas

Contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department for specific alarm registration requirements in unincorporated areas. Requirements may include:

• Alarm user registration
• Emergency contact information on file
• False alarm reduction compliance

City of San Bernardino (For Reference)

If within city limits, the City of San Bernardino requires alarm permits under Municipal Code Chapter 8.81:

• Residential: $25 per year
• Commercial: $50 per year
• Contact: (888) 865-9770 (Alarm Program Systems)

Contractor Licensing Requirements

California requires proper licensing for professional security system installations.

CSLB License Types

• C-7 Low Voltage Systems: For CCTV, security systems, and communication wiring
• C-10 Electrical: For fire alarm integration and higher voltage work

Projects over $500 in labor and materials require a licensed contractor. California requires a State Contractors License to install surveillance equipment on commercial and public properties.

BSIS Requirements

Companies installing monitored security systems must hold a Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Alarm Company Operator license.

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

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Simple electrical permit	$75-$200	Same day to 3 days
Plan review permit	$200-$500+	5-15 business days
Fire alarm permit	Varies by scope	Contact Fire Department
Re-inspection fee	Per current schedule	As needed

Note: Fees subject to change. Contact Land Use Services for current fee schedules.

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Installations

Most residential CCTV installations in unincorporated San Bernardino County don't require permits if:

• No new electrical circuits are required
• Using wireless or plug-in cameras
• No structural modifications needed

California privacy laws still apply:

• Two-party consent: Audio recording requires consent from all parties
• Visible placement: Cameras should be visible in public-facing areas
• Neighbor privacy: Cameras cannot record private areas of neighboring properties
• No hidden cameras: Recording where privacy is expected is prohibited under California Penal Code Section 647(j)(3)

Commercial Installations

Commercial properties may need approval from San Bernardino County building departments. Requirements include:

• Licensed contractor for projects over $500
• BSIS-licensed company for monitored systems
• Electrical permits for hardwired installations
• Fire alarm permits if integrating with life safety systems
• Employee notification compliance (Labor Code Section 435)
• Proper signage notifying customers of surveillance

Pro Tips for San Bernardino County Installations

1. Use EZOP first: The EZ Online Permitting portal centralizes permit information and helps you determine what's needed for your specific project.
2. Plan for extreme conditions: San Bernardino County includes desert areas with extreme heat and mountain areas with snow. Choose cameras rated for your specific location's climate.
3. Account for elevation changes: From desert floors to mountain peaks, the County has dramatic elevation differences. Network connectivity and power availability vary significantly by location.
4. Verify jurisdiction: With 24 cities and vast unincorporated areas, confirm whether your property falls under County or city jurisdiction before applying for permits.
5. Professional installers handle compliance: Licensed installers familiar with San Bernardino County regulations can navigate permit requirements and ensure code compliance.
6. Check with the Sheriff: For alarm registration in unincorporated areas, contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department directly.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related California Permit Guides

• California Low Voltage License Requirements
• Riverside County Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Orange County Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Los Angeles County Security Camera Permit Requirements

Summary

Security camera installations in unincorporated San Bernardino County generally don't require permits for basic residential setups. Electrical work requires permits through Land Use Services Building and Safety, and fire alarm integration requires separate permits. Commercial installations need licensed contractors and may require additional approvals. Use the EZOP portal to determine specific requirements for your project.

For permit questions, contact Land Use Services Building and Safety or visit the EZOP portal at wp.sbcounty.gov/ezop.