Access Control Permit Requirements in Spokane, Washington

Installing access control systems in Spokane requires understanding both local building permit requirements and Washington State contractor licensing. Whether you're securing a commercial building with card readers and electric strikes or adding keypad entry to a residential property, this guide covers everything you need to know about permits, licenses, and compliance in the Spokane area.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, in most cases. Access control installations in Spokane typically require an electrical permit when the work involves:

• Low voltage wiring for card readers, keypads, or biometric devices
• Electric door strikes, magnetic locks, or automated door operators
• Integration with fire alarm or building management systems
• New conduit runs or modifications to existing electrical systems

Standalone battery-powered keypad locks that don't require wiring generally don't need permits, but any hardwired installation should be permitted.

When Permits Are Required vs. Exempt

Permit Required

• Commercial access control systems with electric locks
• Multi-door card access installations
• Systems integrated with fire alarm panels (egress requirements)
• Installations requiring new low voltage wiring runs
• Door hardware modifications affecting fire-rated assemblies
• ADA-compliant automatic door operators

Typically Exempt

• Battery-powered standalone smart locks
• Wireless security cameras with no hardwired power
• Simple intercom replacements using existing wiring

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Washington State requires proper electrical licensing for access control installations. The Washington EL06 Limited Energy License is the primary credential for low voltage contractors working on access control systems.

EL06 Limited Energy License Requirements

• Experience: 4,000 hours of supervised training under a licensed electrician
• Examination: Must pass the L&I Limited Energy System exam
• Business License: Valid Washington contractor registration required
• Insurance: General liability and workers' compensation coverage
• Bonding: Surety bond as required by state law

What EL06 Allows

The Limited Energy license covers telecommunications and low voltage work including access control, but does not permit:

• Replacing or modifying line voltage circuits
• Altering connections to power supply systems
• Work requiring a general electrician (EL01) license

For access control installations requiring 120V power for door operators or control panels, coordination with a licensed EL01 electrician may be necessary.

Spokane Permit Application Process

City of Spokane

For properties within Spokane city limits:

1. Online Application: Submit through the City of Spokane Online Permit Portal
2. Documentation: Include site plans, equipment specifications, and wiring diagrams
3. Contractor Verification: Provide Washington L&I contractor license number
4. Fee Payment: Pay applicable permit fees online or in person
5. Permit Issuance: Receive permit and post at job site

Contact Information:

• Address: 3rd Floor City Hall, 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201
• Email: PermitTeam@spokanecity.org
• Phone: 509-625-6300
• Hours: M/T/TH/F: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., W: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Spokane County

For unincorporated Spokane County properties:

1. Create account at the Spokane County Online Permit Center
2. Upload all required PDF submittal documents
3. Wait for permit technician email confirmation
4. Pay fees and receive approved permit

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Estimated Cost
Low Voltage Electrical Permit	$75-$150
Plan Review (commercial)	$100-$300
Inspection Fee	Often included
Re-inspection Fee	$50-$75

Process Step	Typical Timeline
Permit Application Review	3-5 business days
Commercial Plan Review	1-2 weeks
Inspection Scheduling	Same or next business day
Final Inspection Approval	1-2 days after request

Note: Fees vary based on project scope. Contact the permit office for current fee schedules.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Simpler permit process with shorter review times
• Basic low voltage permit typically sufficient
• Focus on proper installation and fire safety egress
• Common systems: smart locks, video doorbells, intercom systems

Commercial Access Control

• More comprehensive plan review required
• Must comply with Washington State Building Code
• Fire marshal review for systems affecting egress
• ADA compliance for accessible entries mandatory
• Integration with fire alarm for fail-safe/fail-secure requirements

ADA Compliance Considerations

Commercial access control installations must meet ADA accessibility standards:

• Mounting Height: Card readers and keypads at 48 inches maximum AFF (above finished floor)
• Door Hardware: Operable with one hand, no tight grasping or twisting required
• Automatic Doors: Proper opening force and timing requirements
• Clear Floor Space: 30" x 48" minimum at access points

Fire Code Integration

Access control on fire-rated doors and emergency egress paths requires careful attention:

• Electric locks must release on fire alarm activation
• Fail-safe locks required on most egress doors
• Door hold-open devices must release on alarm
• Fire marshal approval may be required for certain installations

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Confirm whether the property is in City of Spokane, Spokane County, or Spokane Valley—each has its own permit office
• Coordinate with fire alarm: If the building has an existing fire alarm, coordinate egress unlocking with the alarm contractor
• Document everything: Take photos before, during, and after installation for inspection records
• Schedule early: Request inspections before 7 a.m. for same-day service
• Know your limits: If line voltage work is needed, bring in an EL01 licensed electrician

Verify Your Contractor

Before hiring an access control contractor in Spokane, verify their credentials through the Washington L&I Contractor Verification Tool. Check for:

• Active contractor registration
• Valid EL06 or EL01 electrical license
• Current workers' compensation coverage
• No outstanding violations or bond claims

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Washington Low Voltage License Requirements
• Security Camera Permits in Spokane, WA
• Fire Alarm Permits in Spokane, WA
• Access Control Permits in Seattle, WA