Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Scottsdale, Arizona

Quick Answer: Structured cabling installations in Scottsdale, Arizona typically do not require a separate permit for interior low voltage data and voice cabling work. However, permits are required when the project is part of larger construction, involves work in public rights-of-way, or includes line voltage electrical work. All contractors performing work over $1,000 must hold an Arizona ROC license (C-67 or CR-67 Low Voltage Communication Systems).

When Are Permits Required?

Permit requirements for structured cabling in Scottsdale depend on the scope and location of your project:

Permit Required

• Part of new construction or tenant improvement projects
• Work in public rights-of-way or utility easements
• Underground conduit or cabling installation in city property
• Work involving penetrations through fire-rated assemblies
• Installations requiring building permit for overall project
• Any work involving line voltage electrical modifications

Permit Typically Not Required

• Interior low voltage data cabling (CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A)
• Voice cabling within existing buildings
• Fiber optic cabling inside buildings
• Network rack installations using existing power
• Patch panel and equipment connections
• Cable management and organization work

Verify With Scottsdale

For projects in gray areas, contact Scottsdale Permit Services at (480) 312-2500 to confirm requirements before starting work.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Arizona requires contractors to hold proper licensing for structured cabling work.

Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC)

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors regulates all contracting work under Title 32, Chapter 10 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. A license is required when:

• Labor and materials exceed $1,000, OR
• A building permit is required (regardless of project value)

Relevant License Classifications

License	Type	Scope
C-67	Commercial	Low voltage communication systems for commercial projects
R-67	Residential	Low voltage communication systems for residential
CR-67	Dual	Both commercial and residential low voltage
K-11	Electrical/Low Voltage	Combined electrical and low voltage capability

C-67 Low Voltage License Scope

The C-67/CR-67 classification allows installation, service, and repair of:

• Telephone and data systems
• Network cabling infrastructure
• Sound and public addressing systems
• Intercommunication systems
• Television and video systems
• Low voltage signaling devices
• Systems not exceeding 91 volts

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

Scottsdale's Definition of Qualified Person

Per Scottsdale's NEC amendments, a "Qualified Person" is one familiar with the construction and operation of the equipment and the hazards involved, specifically a Licensed Electrical Engineer or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Application Process

Interior Projects (Part of Larger Permit)

For structured cabling as part of a permitted construction project:

Step 1: Include in Overall Plans

Low voltage cabling plans should be included as part of the overall building permit package.

Step 2: Submit Through SPUR Portal

Starting January 2026, use the new Scottsdale SPUR portal for all permit applications.

Plan requirements:

• PDF format (under 100 MB)
• Combined into single PDF file in index order
• Cabling pathways and room layouts
• Equipment specifications
• Firestopping details for penetrations

Step 3: Plan Review

Plans reviewed for code compliance as part of overall project.

Step 4: Inspection

Low voltage rough-in may be inspected as part of overall building inspection sequence.

Standalone Interior Projects

For interior data cabling not part of a larger project:

• Verify with Permit Services whether permit is required
• Many interior low voltage projects are permit-exempt
• Document firestopping for any fire-rated penetrations

Contact Information

Department	Contact	Purpose
Permit Services	(480) 312-2500	Permit questions
Planning & Development	(480) 312-7000	General inquiries
Office Address	7447 E. Indian School Rd, Suite 105, Scottsdale 85251	In-person visits
Online Portal	Scottsdale SPUR	Permit applications

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Cost	Notes
Building Permit (if required)	Varies by valuation	Part of overall project
Plan Review	Included	With permit fee
Standalone Low Voltage	Often exempt	Verify with Permit Services

Timeline Expectations

• Standalone Interior Projects: May not require permit
• Part of Building Permit: Follows overall project timeline
• Permit Validity: 180 days without action before abandonment
• Extension: One-time 180-day extension available

Code and Standards Compliance

Industry Standards

Structured cabling installations should comply with:

• TIA-568 – Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard
• TIA-569 – Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
• TIA-606 – Administration Standard for Telecommunications Infrastructure
• TIA-607 – Grounding and Bonding Requirements
• NFPA 70 (NEC) – National Electrical Code, Articles 725, 770, 800
• BICSI standards – Installation best practices

Scottsdale NEC Amendments

Scottsdale has adopted the 2020 National Electrical Code with local amendments. Review these for any variations from standard NEC requirements.

Fire-Rated Assembly Requirements

When cabling penetrates fire-rated walls or floors:

• Firestopping required per building code
• Use listed and labeled firestop systems
• Maintain documentation of firestop installations
• Inspection may be required for permitted projects

Plenum Requirements

For cabling in air handling spaces:

• CMP (Plenum) – Required in air handling spaces
• CMR (Riser) – Acceptable in vertical shafts not used for air
• CM (General) – Only in non-plenum, non-riser applications

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Structured Cabling

• Generally no permit required for interior data/voice cabling
• Licensed contractor required for projects over $1,000 (R-67 or CR-67)
• HOA approval may be required in Scottsdale communities
• Whole-home pre-wire typically included in new construction permit

Commercial Structured Cabling

• Licensed contractor required for projects over $1,000 (C-67 or CR-67)
• Permit typically required as part of tenant improvement
• Plan review may be needed for large installations
• Firestopping documentation required for penetrations
• Coordination with other trades on new construction

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

Based on real-world experience with structured cabling projects in Scottsdale:

• Verify permit requirements early – A quick call to Permit Services prevents surprises
• Use the SPUR portal – Starting January 2026, all permits go through the new online system
• Document firestopping – Keep photos and product documentation for fire-rated penetrations
• Use plenum cable where uncertain – Easier than determining exact air handling space boundaries
• Label everything per TIA-606 – Proper labeling makes inspections smoother
• Coordinate with GC on new construction – Ensure low voltage rough-in is on the schedule
• Review NEC amendments – Scottsdale has local modifications to standard code
• Keep ROC license current – Scottsdale is an affluent area where credentials are often verified
• Don't let permits expire – 180-day abandonment rule applies

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Guides

• Arizona Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Phoenix, Arizona Structured Cabling Permit Requirements
• Chandler, Arizona Structured Cabling Permit Requirements
• Mesa, Arizona Structured Cabling Permit Requirements

Last updated: January 2026. Permit requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements with the City of Scottsdale before beginning your project.