Access Control Permit Requirements in Spartanburg County, South Carolina

Installing an access control system in Spartanburg County? Whether you're adding card readers to a commercial building, installing keypad entry for an office, or setting up a comprehensive door access system, understanding the permit and licensing landscape will help you stay compliant and avoid project delays.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone access control installations. Spartanburg County does not typically require permits for basic access control systems like card readers, keypads, and electronic door locks. However, if your project involves electrical work, fire alarm integration, or structural modifications, those components may trigger permit requirements.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Spartanburg County Building Codes evaluates access control projects based on scope and integration:

Permits Typically NOT Required:

• Standalone card reader installations
• Keypad entry systems
• Electronic door locks replacing mechanical locks
• Wireless access control systems
• PoE-powered readers using existing network infrastructure
• Fob and credential-based entry systems

Permits May Be Required:

• Electric strike or magnetic lock installations requiring new electrical circuits
• Access control integrated with fire alarm systems (requires fire alarm permit)
• Door modifications for access control hardware
• Systems requiring fire marshal approval for egress compliance
• Work as part of new construction or major renovation

What License Do You Need in South Carolina?

South Carolina has a notable exemption for access control systems:

Access Control License Exemption

According to South Carolina Code Title 40, Chapter 79, the Alarm System Business Act does not apply to "camera, card access, or walk-through alarm systems." This means standalone access control installations don't require an alarm contractor license.

What You Still Need:

• Business License: Required from Spartanburg County and/or City of Spartanburg
• Electrical License: Required if installing new electrical circuits for mag locks or electric strikes
• Alarm License: Required only if access control is integrated with monitored burglar alarm system
• Fire Alarm License: Required if integrating with fire alarm for door release

For complete licensing details, see our South Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for a Permit in Spartanburg County?

If your access control project requires a permit (typically due to electrical or fire alarm integration):

Spartanburg County Building Codes

• Online Portal: EnerGov Citizen Self Service
• Address: 366 N Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303
• Phone: (864) 596-2691
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM
• Website: Spartanburg County Building Codes

City of Spartanburg (within city limits)

• Alarm Registration: If integrated with burglar alarm, registration required - $10 annual fee
• Website: City of Spartanburg Alarm Registration

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Details
Electrical Permit (if needed)	Based on project value, minimum ~$50
Fire Alarm Permit (if integrated)	$75-$200 based on scope
City Alarm Registration	$10 annually (if alarm-integrated)
Plan Review	3-5 business days for simple projects

What Are the Fire Code Considerations?

Access control systems must comply with fire and life safety codes:

Egress Requirements

• Doors in the means of egress must allow free exit without special knowledge
• Electric locks must release upon fire alarm activation
• Emergency push-to-exit buttons required at controlled egress doors
• Fail-safe locks recommended for most applications

Fire Marshal Approval

Commercial access control systems affecting egress typically need fire marshal review. Coordinate with Spartanburg County Fire Marshal for approval on:

• Delayed egress systems (require specific signage and timing)
• Controlled egress in healthcare or detention occupancies
• Stairwell reentry systems

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Access Control

Home access control installations rarely require permits:

• Smart locks, keypads, and video doorbells - no permit needed
• Gate access systems - may need electrical permit for new circuits
• Focus on proper installation without fire code concerns

Commercial Access Control

Commercial installations have additional considerations:

• ADA Compliance: Readers and hardware must be accessible (48 inches max height)
• Fire Code: Integration with fire alarm for door release
• Egress: Must not impede emergency exit
• Documentation: System drawings for tenant and property management

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Leverage the exemption: Card access is exempt from alarm licensing in SC - document this if questioned
• Coordinate fire integration early: If connecting to fire alarm, plan permit timeline accordingly
• Use fail-safe locks: Reduces fire code complications and simplifies approvals
• Check ADA requirements: Commercial installations must meet accessibility standards
• Document egress compliance: Take photos showing emergency release buttons and signage

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across South Carolina and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Spartanburg County

• Security Camera Permits in Spartanburg County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Spartanburg County