Security Camera Permit Requirements in Scott County, Iowa

Planning to install security cameras or video surveillance systems in unincorporated Scott County, Iowa? This guide covers permit requirements, contractor licensing, and the application process for CCTV, IP cameras, and video surveillance installations in the county's jurisdiction.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security cameras. Scott County Planning & Development does not typically require permits for low voltage security camera installations that don't involve structural modifications or new electrical circuits. However, permits may be required for associated electrical work or structural changes. Contact the Planning & Development office to confirm for your specific project.

What Is Considered Security Camera Work?

Security camera installations in Scott County include:

• CCTV analog camera systems
• IP network camera installations
• Video surveillance with NVR/DVR recording
• PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera systems
• Video doorbell and intercom systems
• License plate recognition (LPR) cameras
• Commercial video management systems

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Scott County Planning & Development handles permits for unincorporated areas and eight partner cities:

Permits Required

• New electrical circuits: Line voltage work for power supplies (requires electrical permit)
• Structural modifications: Pole installations or significant building modifications
• Commercial new construction: Part of overall building permit package
• Structures over 120 sq ft: Any accessory structures housing equipment

Typically Exempt

• Standalone camera systems: Low voltage installations without structural work
• PoE cameras: Powered over Ethernet on existing network
• Wireless cameras: Battery or solar powered
• Minor repairs: Replacement of existing equipment

Do You Need a State License for Security Cameras?

Iowa DIAL (Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing) regulates alarm system contractors under Iowa Code Chapter 100C. Security cameras have important exemptions:

Installation Type	State License Required?
Standalone CCTV/IP cameras	No - Video only, no monitoring
Cameras with local recording only	No - No external notifications
Cameras integrated with alarm system	Yes - Alarm Contractor License
Video verification alarm systems	Yes - Alarm Contractor License

For complete Iowa licensing requirements, see our Iowa Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Construction Contractor Registration

All contractors earning $2,000+ annually must register with DIAL:

• Registration fee: $50 annually
• Applies to: All construction work including security installations

How Do You Apply for Scott County Permits?

When permits are required, follow this process:

Step 1: Download Application

Scott County provides permit applications as PDF downloads from the Planning & Development website. An Electrical Construction Permit Application is available for electrical work.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Site plans showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Electrical plans if line voltage work required
• State electrical license (for electrical work)

Step 3: Submit and Pay Fees

Submit application to Planning & Development. Plan review typically takes 3-5 days for residential, 7-10 days for commercial.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections after installation completion.

What Are the Permit Fees?

Scott County permit fees:

Permit Type	Fee
Plan review (new construction)	$100 (credited toward permit)
Electrical permit	Based on job scope
Building permit	Based on valuation

Contact: Scott County Planning & Development
Phone: Contact via website
Address: Scott County Administrative Center
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
Staff available by phone: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Projects

• Doorbell cameras: No permit typically required
• Home surveillance: Low voltage exempt from electrical licensing
• Outdoor cameras: Verify mounting doesn't require structural permit
• DIY installation: Homeowner can do own work

Commercial Projects

• Retail surveillance: Document coverage for liability
• Parking lot cameras: Consider pole mounting permits
• Multi-tenant buildings: Coordinate with property management
• New construction: Include in overall permit package

Scott County Partner Cities

Scott County provides building permit services for these cities through 28E agreements:

• Dixon
• Donahue
• LeClaire
• Long Grove
• McCausland
• Panorama Park
• Princeton
• Riverdale

Note: Davenport and Bettendorf have their own building departments.

What Codes Apply in Scott County?

Scott County has adopted the following codes per Chapter 5 Construction Codes:

• 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) - Current standard
• 2023 NEC - For permits issued after July 1, 2025
• 2021 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2021 International Residential Code (IRC)
• 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC)

Iowa Recording Laws for Security Cameras

Important legal considerations:

• Video recording: Legal in public areas and private property you control
• Audio recording: Iowa is a one-party consent state
• Employee notification: Post notices in workplaces with surveillance
• Privacy areas: No cameras in restrooms, changing areas, or where privacy is expected

Pro Tips for Scott County Security Camera Projects

• Check jurisdiction: Davenport and Bettendorf have separate building departments
• Plan review time: Allow 3-5 days residential, 7-10 days commercial
• Office hours: Staff available by phone from 7 a.m., office opens at 8 a.m.
• NEC transition: Permits after July 1, 2025 follow 2023 NEC
• Document everything: Keep records even for exempt installations
• Network planning: Ensure adequate bandwidth for IP camera systems

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Scott County

• Security Camera Permits in Davenport
• Fire Alarm Permits in Davenport
• Access Control Permits in Davenport

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Permit for Security Cameras in Scott County?

Generally no for standalone low voltage security cameras. Permits are required for associated electrical work, structural modifications, or when cameras are part of new construction.

What License Do I Need to Install Security Cameras in Iowa?

For standalone video surveillance without alarm monitoring, no state license is required beyond construction contractor registration ($50/year). If cameras integrate with monitored alarm systems, you need an Iowa Alarm Contractor License.

Does Scott County Cover Davenport?

No. Davenport has its own building department. Scott County covers unincorporated areas and eight partner cities: Dixon, Donahue, LeClaire, Long Grove, McCausland, Panorama Park, Princeton, and Riverdale.