Access Control Permit Requirements in San Francisco, California

Installing access control systems in San Francisco requires understanding both local building permit requirements and state licensing regulations. This guide covers electrical permits, BSIS licensing, and the application process for access control installations in San Francisco.

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

Yes, in most cases. Access control systems typically require an electrical permit from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) because they involve low-voltage wiring. Additionally, the company performing the installation must hold a California BSIS Alarm Company Operator license.

When Permits Are Required

Electrical permits are required for:

• New access control system installations
• Card reader and credential reader installations
• Electric strike and magnetic lock wiring
• Biometric access devices
• Door controller installations
• Alterations, extensions, or additions to existing systems
• Integration with fire alarm or security systems

Permit Exemptions

Some work may be exempt per San Francisco Electrical Code Section 89.121:

• Minor repairs that don't alter the system
• Battery replacements
• Like-for-like device replacements (same voltage, same location)

When in doubt, contact DBI to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

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 companies in California. Key requirements include:

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

Note: Companies located outside California that install or monitor systems in California must also possess a BSIS license.

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

San Francisco Electrical Permit Process

Step 1: Determine Permit Type

Access control systems fall under low-voltage wiring systems. Simple installations may qualify for over-the-counter (OTC) permits using Form 3/8 (the "pink form").

Step 2: Contractor Registration

Licensed contractors must be registered with the City of San Francisco to apply for permits online through the DBI Electrical Permitting and Inspection Scheduling system.

Step 3: Submit Application

For Licensed Contractors:

• Log into the DBI Electrical Permitting portal
• Itemize proposed scope of work
• Select appropriate category and fee amount
• Online permits subject to up to 2.5% additional fee

For Property Owners:

• Complete the Homeowner's Electrical Permit Application
• Bring application to DBI 4th floor Inspection Services counter
• Show ID proving property ownership
• For LLCs, Trusts, or Corporations: show proof of authorized signatory

Step 4: Inspection

Before covering any wiring, you must have it inspected. Separate permits are required for each structure, condominium unit, or commercial tenant space.

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Amount
Low-Voltage Systems (1-10 floors)	$446.40 (includes 3 inspections)
Each Additional Floor	$46.50
Online Processing Fee	Up to 2.5% additional
Permit Timeline	2-12 months (varies by project)

OTC permits for simple projects can often be obtained same-day if documentation is complete.

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Access Control

• Homeowners can pull their own permits for personal property
• Multi-family buildings require standard contractor permits
• Simpler systems may qualify for OTC permits
• Single-family home projects typically have faster approval

Commercial Access Control

• Must use licensed, registered contractors
• More complex plan review may be required
• Separate permits required for each tenant space
• May require coordination with fire alarm systems
• Accessibility compliance may be triggered for commercial alterations

Accessibility Considerations

When installing access control as part of commercial alterations in San Francisco, accessibility upgrades may be required:

• Power door operators may need accessibility compliance
• Card reader heights must meet ADA requirements
• Consider hiring a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) for assessment
• Small businesses may qualify for the Accessible Barrier Removal Grant (up to $10,000)

Contact Information

San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI)

• Address: 49 South Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94103
• Permit Center: 2nd Floor
• Electrical Inspections: 4th Floor
• Website: sfdbi.org
• Electrical Portal: DBI Electrical Permitting

California BSIS

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

Pro Tips from the Field

• Register with the city first: Contractors must register with San Francisco before using the online permit system.
• Use OTC when possible: Simple access control projects can often get same-day permits through the over-the-counter process.
• Plan for long timelines: San Francisco permit processing can take 2-12 months for complex projects.
• Verify BSIS licensing: Both your company and any subcontractors need proper BSIS credentials for access control work.
• Check ADA requirements: Commercial installations often trigger accessibility compliance reviews.
• Coordinate with fire systems: If access control integrates with fire alarm, coordinate with SFFD permit requirements.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Los Angeles Access Control Permit Requirements
• San Diego Access Control Permit Requirements
• San Jose Access Control Permit Requirements
• California Low Voltage License Guide