Access Control Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia

Quick Answer: Savannah, Georgia typically does not require separate permits for standalone access control installations. However, systems integrating with fire alarms, electromagnetic locks on egress doors, or requiring electrical work beyond low voltage may need permits. All contractors must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVG or LVU) issued by the State Board of Low Voltage Contractors.

When Are Permits Required?

Access control systems in Savannah fall under different permit requirements based on system complexity and integration:

Permits Typically Required

• Systems with electromagnetic locks on means of egress doors
• Integration with fire alarm systems (requires Fire Marshal approval)
• Automated gates in gated communities (Chapter 7 emergency access requirements)
• Systems requiring line voltage electrical work
• Commercial installations affecting building egress paths

Permits Generally Not Required

• Standalone card readers and keypads
• Battery-powered electronic locks
• Low-voltage wiring for basic access control
• Intercom systems without electric strikes
• Residential smart locks and keypad deadbolts

Georgia Contractor Licensing

The Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors requires licensing for all access control installation work performed for compensation.

Applicable License Types

License	Code	Access Control Scope
Low Voltage General	LVG	Access control, intercoms, card readers, network cabling
Low Voltage Alarm	LVA	Access control integrated with alarm systems
Low Voltage Unrestricted	LVU	All low voltage work without limitations

License Requirements

• Minimum one year of installation experience in the license category
• Complete at least three low-voltage jobs in the year prior to application
• Pass the state licensing examination
• Background check through local law enforcement
• Submit application through the GOALS online portal

Electromagnetic Lock Code Requirements

When access control systems include electromagnetic locks (maglocks) on doors in the means of egress, Georgia Building Code requirements apply. These are based on the International Building Code (IBC) as adopted by Georgia.

Permitted Occupancy Types

Electromagnetic locks on egress doors are permitted in:

• Group A - Assembly
• Group B - Business
• Group E - Educational
• Group M - Mercantile
• Group R-1 - Hotels/Motels
• Group R-2 - Apartments

Required Safety Features

• Manual release: Push-to-exit button within 5 feet of door, mounted 40-48 inches above floor
• Clear marking: Button must be labeled "PUSH TO EXIT"
• Unlock duration: Doors must remain unlocked for minimum 30 seconds after activation
• Fire alarm integration: Automatic unlock upon fire alarm activation
• Sprinkler integration: Automatic unlock upon sprinkler or fire detection activation
• Power failure: Doors must unlock upon loss of power

Panic Hardware Integration

Where panic or fire exit hardware is required by code, operating the panic hardware must release the electromagnetic lock independent of access control electronics.

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Determine Permit Requirements

Contact Savannah Development Services to confirm whether your specific installation requires permits. Projects involving fire alarm integration require Fire Marshal review.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

If permits are required, prepare:

• Current Georgia low voltage license
• System layout drawings showing device locations
• Door schedule identifying hardware on egress doors
• Wiring diagrams for electromagnetic lock circuits
• Fire alarm integration details (if applicable)

Step 3: Submit Through eTrac

Use the eTrac Savannah portal for permit applications. The system tracks all development permitting activities within the city.

Step 4: Inspection

Schedule inspections after installation. Inspectors verify:

• Egress door hardware compliance
• Fire alarm integration functionality
• Manual release operation
• Power failure failsafe operation

Gated Community Requirements

Savannah's Code of Ordinances Chapter 7 addresses emergency access requirements for gated communities. Access control systems at community gates must:

• Provide emergency vehicle access via Knox Box or similar system
• Allow emergency override by fire department
• Meet minimum gate opening dimensions for emergency vehicles
• Include backup power or manual override capability

Fees and Timeline

Service	Typical Cost
Low voltage permit (if required)	$50 - $150
Fire alarm integration review	$75 - $200
Inspection fee	Included in permit
Reinspection fee	$50 - $75

Timeline: Standard permit review takes 3-7 business days. Projects requiring Fire Marshal review may take longer.

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• Most residential access control does not require permits
• Smart locks and keypad deadbolts are typically permit-exempt
• Video intercoms with electric strikes may require review
• Licensed contractor recommended for hardwired systems

Commercial Projects

• Electromagnetic locks on egress doors require code compliance
• Fire alarm integration requires Fire Marshal approval
• Tenant spaces may have specific requirements
• ADA accessibility requirements apply to access control placement
• Historic district installations may need preservation review

Pro Tips for Savannah Access Control Projects

Historic District Considerations: Savannah's historic districts have strict preservation requirements. Surface-mounted card readers and wireless locks minimize impact on historic door frames and facades.

Coastal Climate: Savannah's humid climate affects outdoor access control hardware. Specify NEMA 4X rated enclosures for exterior readers and keypads. Use stainless steel hardware to resist corrosion.

Integration Planning: Plan fire alarm integration early. Adding maglocks to existing fire alarm systems requires coordination with the Fire Marshal and may trigger panel upgrades.

Network Infrastructure: IP-based access control requires reliable network connectivity. Many older Savannah buildings need network infrastructure upgrades to support modern access control systems.

Documentation: Maintain complete records of egress door hardware, including annual testing documentation for electromagnetic locks and fire alarm integration.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Georgia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Access Control Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia
• Browse All Permit Guides

Contact Information

City of Savannah Development Services
5515 Abercorn Street, Suite 44
Savannah, GA 31405
Phone: (912) 651-6520
Permit Guidelines

eTrac Permit Portal
eTRAC.savannahga.gov

Savannah Fire Marshal's Office
Phone: (912) 644-5960
For fire alarm integration questions

Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 195
Macon, GA 31210
Phone: (404) 424-9966
sos.ga.gov