Access Control Permit Requirements in San Diego County, California

Installing access control systems in unincorporated San Diego County typically does not require electrical permits for low-voltage work under 25 volts. However, alarm system permits are required for monitored systems. This guide covers permit requirements, exemptions, and licensing for access control installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Access Control in San Diego County?

Generally no for low-voltage wiring. San Diego County exempts wiring operating at 25 volts or less from electrical permits. However, if the access control system is monitored, you'll need an alarm system permit from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

Electrical Permit Exemptions

San Diego County exempts the following from electrical permits:

• Wiring, devices, appliances, or equipment operating at 25 volts or less between conductors
• Systems not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy
• Signal and intelligence transmission wiring (not including lighting/appliance control)

Most access control systems (card readers, keypads, electric strikes, magnetic locks) operate within these parameters.

When Permits ARE Required

Electrical permits are required for:

• Power supply equipment serving access control systems
• Tower installations
• Generating or transforming equipment
• Systems operating above 25 volts
• Work involving structural modifications

Alarm System Permit (Required for Monitored Systems)

If your access control system includes monitoring, an alarm permit is required:

Jurisdiction	Fee	Duration
Unincorporated San Diego County	$176 (one-time)	Valid while owner of property

The permit is not transferable between persons or addresses. Apply through the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

Licensing Requirements

Access control installations in California require proper state licensing:

License Type	Issuing Agency	Requirement
Alarm Company Operator (ACO)	California BSIS	Required for access control systems
C-7 Low Voltage	California CSLB	For low voltage electrical work

BSIS Alarm Company Operator License

The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) regulates alarm and access control companies. Requirements include:

• Criminal background check through DOJ and FBI
• Qualified Manager designation
• $1,000,000 general liability insurance (for LLCs)
• Live Scan fingerprinting
• Renewal every two years

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

San Diego County Permit Process (When Required)

Step 1: Determine If Electrical Permit Needed

Most low-voltage access control work is exempt. Contact San Diego County Planning & Development Services Building Division if unsure.

Step 2: Submit Online (If Required)

All new permits must be submitted online through the County's Citizen Access portal.

Step 3: Obtain Alarm Permit (For Monitored Systems)

Apply for alarm permit through San Diego County Sheriff's Department:

• Complete alarm permit application
• Pay $176 one-time fee
• Permit remains valid while you own the property

Important Compliance Notes

Even when electrical permits aren't required:

• Work must comply with Electrical Regulations
• Must follow all applicable state and local codes
• BSIS licensing required for installing company
• C-7 contractor license required for work over $500

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Access Control

• Low-voltage wiring typically exempt from permits
• $176 alarm permit required if monitored
• Must use BSIS-licensed installers
• Homeowners can do some work themselves

Commercial Access Control

• Same low-voltage exemptions apply
• Power supplies may require permits
• Must use licensed BSIS and CSLB contractors
• Integration with fire systems has additional requirements

Contact Information

San Diego County Planning & Development Services - Building Division

• Phone: (619) 446-5000
• Hours: Mon-Thu 7am-4pm, Fri 10am-4pm (closed 11:30am-12:30pm)
• Website: San Diego County Building Division
• Online Permits: Citizen Access Portal

San Diego County Sheriff - Alarm Permits

• Website: Alarm System Permit

California BSIS

• Phone: (916) 322-4000
• Website: bsis.ca.gov

Pro Tips from the Field

• Low-voltage = usually exempt: Most access control operates under 25V, making electrical permits unnecessary for the wiring.
• Don't forget alarm permit: Monitored systems require the $176 alarm permit from the Sheriff's Department.
• One-time permit advantage: Unlike some jurisdictions, the San Diego County alarm permit is one-time and lasts as long as you own the property.
• Power supply separate: While access control wiring may be exempt, dedicated power supply equipment may need its own permit.
• BSIS required: Even without electrical permits, only BSIS-licensed companies can install access control systems.
• Walk-ins end early: If visiting county offices, arrive before 3pm and note the lunch closure.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• San Diego (City) Access Control Permit Requirements
• Los Angeles County Access Control Permit Requirements
• San Francisco Access Control Permit Requirements
• California Low Voltage License Guide