Security Camera Permit Requirements in Sedgwick County, Kansas

Installing security cameras and CCTV systems in Sedgwick County, Kansas—including the City of Wichita—requires understanding local alarm licensing requirements and building codes. The Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) oversees building permits for the county, while the City of Wichita has specific alarm business and technician licensing requirements. This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security cameras. Most security camera installations in Sedgwick County do not require building permits when the work involves only low-voltage wiring and does not modify electrical systems. However, if your security camera system includes alarm monitoring features and you're working in the City of Wichita, you must be licensed by the City's Business License Department. Electrical permits are required when work involves new 120V circuits.

Understanding Sedgwick County's Jurisdiction

The Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) enforces construction regulations in both Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita under the unified building code.

• City of Wichita: Has specific alarm licensing requirements through the Business License Department
• Unincorporated Sedgwick County: No specific alarm company regulations—check permit requirements with MABCD
• Other incorporated towns: May have their own regulations or have adopted Wichita's regulations

When Is a Permit Required for Security Cameras?

According to MABCD, permits are required when work involves:

• New electrical circuits: Running 120V power for DVR/NVR equipment, monitors, or power supplies
• Electrical system modifications: Any alteration to existing electrical systems
• Complex systems: Installation of security systems that require monitoring from a remote site may require a licensed electrician
• Commercial construction: Security cameras as part of larger buildout projects

What Security Camera Work Is Typically Exempt?

Based on the 2023 NEC (effective January 1, 2025) adopted by Sedgwick County, these installations typically do not require electrical permits:

• IP cameras powered by PoE (Power over Ethernet)
• Low-voltage camera systems using Class 2 wiring
• Wireless and battery-powered security cameras
• Network cabling (Cat5e/Cat6) for IP camera systems
• NVR/DVR systems plugged into existing electrical outlets
• Video doorbell installations

Alarm Business and Technician Licensing (City of Wichita)

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring features and you're working in the City of Wichita, you must be licensed through the City of Wichita Business License Department.

Alarm Business License Requirements

• Must have a business alarm license issued by the City of Wichita
• Application must list each certified technician
• Annual fee: $100

Alarm Technician Certification

Technicians installing or servicing alarm systems must:

• Be certified and have an alarm certificate from the City of Wichita
• Pass at least a "Level One" test for security alarm installation
• Be certified by Kansas Electronic Security Alliance, Electronic Security Association, or other recognized national testing agency

Unincorporated Sedgwick County

If you live in the unincorporated part of Sedgwick County, there are no specific regulations governing alarm companies, technicians, or system installation. However, standard building codes still apply.

For more details on Kansas licensing requirements, see our Kansas Low Voltage License Guide.

Alarm User Registration (City of Wichita)

The Alarm Administration manages alarm permits and registration:

• Registration required: Alarm systems connected to police/fire dispatch must be registered
• Medical emergency exemption: Systems designed only for medical emergencies don't require registration
• Renewal: Administrator notifies users 30 days before expiration
• False alarm fees: Graduated fees based on number of false alarms (no fee for first false alarm)

How Do You Apply for a Security Camera Permit?

If your installation requires an electrical permit:

1. Access the portal: Visit the MABCD Portal
2. Submit application: Complete the electrical permit application
3. Provide documentation: Include system specifications and installation details
4. Pay permit fees: Fees based on project scope
5. Schedule inspection: Request inspection upon completion

Contact: MABCD at 316-660-1840 for permit questions.

What Codes Apply to Security Cameras in Sedgwick County?

Sedgwick County has adopted the Wichita-Sedgwick County Unified Building and Trade Code:

• Electrical: 2023 NEC (effective January 1, 2025)
• Building: 2024 IBC
• Residential: 2018 IRC
• Fire: 2018 IFC

Residential vs Commercial Security Camera Requirements

Residential Installations

Most residential security camera installations do not require permits:

• Smart doorbell cameras (Ring, Nest, etc.)
• Wireless home security cameras
• PoE camera systems with NVR
• DIY security camera kits

Homeowner electrical work: Homeowners can take a 3-hour open-book exam ($50) to do their own electrical work. The test uses the 2023 NEC and requires 75% to pass.

Commercial Installations

Commercial projects have additional considerations:

• Alarm licensing: Required in City of Wichita if system includes monitoring
• Technician certification: ESA or KESA certification required
• Business license: $100 annual fee for alarm companies

Pro Tips for Security Camera Contractors in Sedgwick County

Based on experience working in the Wichita area, here are practical recommendations:

• Check location first: Determine if the project is in City of Wichita, unincorporated Sedgwick County, or another town—alarm licensing only applies within Wichita city limits.
• Get ESA/KESA certified: Technician certification is mandatory in Wichita for alarm work.
• Register monitored systems: Help customers register their alarm systems to avoid false alarm fines.
• 2023 NEC is current: As of January 1, 2025, the 2023 NEC is in effect—verify code compliance.
• Contact MABCD: Call 316-660-1840 for permit questions or use the online portal.
• Business License Dept: Contact 316-268-4553 for Wichita alarm business licensing.

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Contact Information

For permit and licensing questions:

• MABCD (Permits): sedgwickcounty.org/mabcd | 316-660-1840
• MABCD Portal: mabcdportal.sedgwickcounty.org
• Wichita Business License: wichita.gov | 316-268-4553
• Wichita Alarm Administration: wichita.gov/993/Alarm-Administration
• Adopted Codes: Current Codes

Last updated: January 2026. Permit and licensing requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements with MABCD or the City of Wichita before beginning work.