Security Camera Permit Requirements in Spartanburg County, South Carolina

Installing security cameras in Spartanburg County? Whether you're setting up surveillance for a retail store downtown, securing a warehouse in the county, or adding cameras to a residential property, understanding local permit and licensing requirements will keep your project compliant and avoid delays.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security camera installations. Spartanburg County does not typically require permits for basic security camera and video surveillance installations. However, if your project involves electrical work, alarm system integration, or structural modifications, those components may trigger permit requirements.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Spartanburg County Building Codes evaluates projects based on scope and electrical impact:

Permits Typically NOT Required:

• Wireless security camera installations
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems using existing network infrastructure
• Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras
• Residential doorbell cameras and basic home surveillance
• Cameras mounted without structural modifications

Permits May Be Required:

• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Integrated alarm systems with monitoring (requires alarm permit)
• Installations requiring conduit through fire-rated assemblies
• Structural modifications for camera mounting
• Work as part of new construction or major renovation

What License Do You Need in South Carolina?

South Carolina has specific licensing requirements for security system installations:

Alarm System Contractor License

If your security camera installation includes burglar alarm integration or monitoring services, you need a South Carolina Alarm System Business License through the SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR).

• Requirements: NTS Level I or Level II certification, background check, proof of insurance and bonding
• Exam: South Carolina Alarm Code of Laws exam plus technical exam
• Contact: SC Contractors' Licensing Board at (803) 896-4686

Standalone CCTV (No Alarm Integration)

For video-only surveillance systems without alarm integration, South Carolina does not require a specific low-voltage license. However, you need:

• Business License: Required from Spartanburg County and/or City of Spartanburg
• Electrical License: Required if installing new electrical circuits

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

How Do You Apply for a Permit in Spartanburg County?

If your project requires a permit, here's how to apply:

Spartanburg County Building Codes

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

City of Spartanburg (within city limits)

• Email: buildingpermits@cityofspartanburg.org
• Fax: (864) 596-2833
• Drop-box: 440 S Church St, Spartanburg, SC
• Website: City of Spartanburg Building Permits

Application Requirements:

1. Complete permit application (available online or in-person)
2. Site plan showing camera locations
3. Equipment specifications
4. Electrical plans if new circuits required
5. Proof of contractor license and insurance

What Are the Fees and How Long Does It Take?

Item	Details
Alarm System Permit Fee	$50-$75 depending on scope
Electrical Permit (if needed)	Based on project value, minimum ~$50
Plan Review Time	3-5 business days for simple projects
Inspection Scheduling	24-48 hours advance notice

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Spartanburg County rarely require permits. Homeowners can install wireless cameras, doorbell cameras, and basic surveillance systems without permits. Key considerations:

• Respect neighbor privacy - don't point cameras at their property
• Audio recording requires one-party consent in South Carolina
• Consider joining Spartanburg's "Connect Spartanburg" program to assist law enforcement

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial installations have additional considerations:

• New Construction: Security systems typically included in overall building permit
• Tenant Buildouts: Coordinate with landlord and may need permit if part of larger renovation
• Monitored Systems: Require licensed alarm contractor
• Employee Monitoring: Must comply with workplace privacy laws

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

Experienced Spartanburg area contractors recommend:

• Verify jurisdiction: City of Spartanburg has different requirements than unincorporated Spartanburg County
• Use EnerGov portal: Online submissions are faster than paper applications
• Document installations: Photos and as-built drawings help with future service calls
• Plan for bandwidth: Commercial IP camera systems need adequate network infrastructure
• Consider Connect Spartanburg: Recommend the program to clients for community safety benefits

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera 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

More Spartanburg County permit guides coming soon. In the meantime, check our complete permit guide library for other South Carolina jurisdictions.