Access Control Permit Requirements in San Diego, California

Quick Answer: Access control installations in San Diego may be exempt from electrical permits if operating under 25 volts and 50 watts. Systems exceeding these thresholds require electrical permits through DSD. Contractors must hold an ACO license from BSIS for alarm-related work. If the system includes monitored burglar alarm features, an alarm user permit from SDPD is required before service begins.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

The San Diego Development Services Department requires electrical permits for electrical work, but low-voltage systems may be exempt.

Permit Exemptions

Installation, alteration, or repair is exempt from permit requirements if:

• Voltage does not exceed 25 volts between conductors
• System is not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy
• Work does not include generating or transforming equipment

Many access control systems operate within these parameters and may qualify for exemptions.

Permits Required For

• Systems exceeding 25 volts or 50 watts
• Commercial access control installations integrated with building systems
• Systems requiring electrical plan review
• Monitored alarm systems (separate alarm user permit)

Contractor Licensing Requirements

California requires specific licensing for access control work depending on the system type.

License Options

License Type	Issuing Agency	Scope
ACO (Alarm Company Operator)	BSIS	Burglar alarms, security systems
C-7 Low Voltage	CSLB	Low voltage systems under 91 volts
C-10 Electrical	CSLB	All electrical work

For access control with alarm features, an ACO license from BSIS is typically required. For standalone access control without alarm monitoring, a C-7 or C-10 license may suffice.

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

Alarm User Permit Requirement

If your access control system includes monitored burglar alarm features, San Diego requires an alarm user permit from SDPD.

Key Requirements

• When to register: Before putting the alarm system into service
• Penalty for non-registration: $400 fine if police dispatched before registration
• Annual fee: $31
• False alarms allowed: 2 per calendar year without penalty

How to Register

Apply online at sdpdalarmpermits.sandiego.gov or download and mail the application.

How to Apply for Electrical Permits

Step 1: Determine Permit Requirements

Verify whether your system operates under 25V/50W (exempt) or requires a permit.

Step 2: Choose Permit Type

Simple (No-Plan) Permit: Minor installations by homeowners or licensed contractors can use online Simple Permit process.

Plan-Required Permit: Commercial buildings and complex installations require electrical plans and calculations.

Step 3: Submit Online

All new permits must be submitted online through the San Diego DSD portal.

Step 4: Pay Fees

Pay permit fees online or in person.

Step 5: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections as required for your permit type.

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Development Services (DSD)	sandiego.gov/development-services
Electrical Permits	Electrical Permit Page
Police Permits (Alarms)	(619) 531-2274
Alarm Permits Online	sdpdalarmpermits.sandiego.gov
BSIS Licensing	bsis.ca.gov

Permit Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost
Electrical Permit	Based on project scope
SDPD Alarm Permit (annual)	$31
Failure to Register Fine	$400

Timeline Expectations

Stage	Typical Duration
Simple (No-Plan) Permit	Online, same day
Plan-Required Permit	Varies by complexity
Alarm User Permit	Online processing

False Alarm Policy

San Diego has a False Alarm Reduction program managed by SDPD:

• Allowed: 2 false alarms per calendar year without penalty
• Exceeding limit: Escalating penalties plus cost recovery
• Revocation notice: Sent if false alarms exceed limit; must correct problem

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Low-voltage systems (under 25V/50W) often exempt from electrical permits
• Smart locks and basic keypads typically qualify for exemption
• Monitored systems require SDPD alarm user permit ($31/year)
• Simple Permit available online for minor installations

Commercial Access Control

• May require electrical permits through DSD
• Plans and calculations required for commercial buildings
• Must use licensed contractors (ACO, C-7, or C-10)
• Monitored systems require alarm user permit
• ADA compliance required at public entrances

Common Access Control Project Types

Typical access control work in San Diego includes:

• Card Reader Systems: Proximity, smart card, mobile credentials
• Biometric Access: Fingerprint, facial recognition
• Video Intercom: Door stations with two-way communication
• Electric Locks: Maglocks, electric strikes
• Gate Access: Vehicle and pedestrian gates
• Elevator Control: Floor restriction systems

Pro Tips for San Diego Access Control Permits

Based on contractor experience in this jurisdiction:

• Check the 25V/50W threshold: Many access control systems are exempt from electrical permits
• Register alarms BEFORE service: $400 fine for police dispatch to unregistered systems
• Use Simple Permit when eligible: Online process is fast for minor work
• Budget for annual alarm permit: $31/year for monitored systems
• Know your false alarm limit: Only 2 allowed per year without penalties
• ACO license for alarm features: If access control includes intrusion detection, ACO is required
• Submit online: All DSD permits must be submitted electronically

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Resources

• California Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• More Permit Guides