Security Camera Permit Requirements in Spokane, Washington
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Complete guide to security camera permit requirements in Spokane, WA including Washington two-party consent law, EL06 licensing, and Sentinel camera registry.
Security Camera Permit Requirements in Spokane, Washington
Installing security cameras in Spokane, Washington requires understanding both Washington state privacy laws and local permit requirements. Washington has strict two-party consent requirements that significantly impact surveillance system design.
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?
Generally no permit required for camera installation alone. Spokane does not require specific permits for security camera installations. However, electrical permits may be required for wiring work, and you must comply with Washington's strict privacy laws.
Washington State Privacy Laws - Critical Compliance
Washington is a two-party consent state with strict privacy laws. Under RCW 9.73.030, recording conversations without all parties' consent is illegal.
Audio Recording
- All parties must consent to audio recording
- Recording conversations without consent is a criminal offense
- Best practice: Disable audio recording on all cameras
- Video-only systems avoid consent issues entirely
Video Recording
- Video-only recording is generally permitted in public areas
- Cannot record in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy
- Bathrooms, changing rooms, and private spaces are prohibited
- Recording in private spaces can result in criminal charges
Workplace Surveillance
- Inform employees and patrons through prominent signage
- Cannot install cameras in bathrooms or private offices
- Audio recording restricted under two-party consent
- Clear "Surveillance in Progress" signage recommended
Spokane Electrical Permit Requirements
The City of Spokane electrical permit application includes categories for:
- Alarm, Telecom, Theatre, and Sound Systems
- Low and/or High Voltage Circuits
When Electrical Permits Are Required
- Installing new electrical circuits for camera equipment
- Commercial installations with extensive wiring
- Projects involving line voltage connections
- Work beyond minor residential installations
Washington Contractor Licensing
EL06 Limited Energy License
The Washington Department of Labor & Industries requires licensing for security camera installation:
- EL06 Limited Energy System license covers security systems
- 4,000 hours supervised training required
- Valid UBI number and $4,000 bond
- Designated master administrator
For detailed licensing requirements, see our Washington Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.
Spokane Permit Contacts
| Jurisdiction | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| City of Spokane | my.spokanecity.org | Development Services Center |
| Spokane County | co-spokane-wa.smartgovcommunity.com | Use interactive map for jurisdiction |
| Spokane Valley | (509) 921-1000 | Permit Center |
| WA L&I Electrical | (360) 902-5269 | Unincorporated areas |
Fees and Timeline
| Item | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Electrical Permit (if required) | $75-$200 |
| Plan Review (commercial) | $100-$300 |
| Processing Time | 3-10 business days |
Note: Starting July 1, 2025, processing and plan review fees are due prior to permit application being routed for review.
Spokane County Camera Registry
The Spokane County Sheriff's Office offers the Sentinel voluntary camera registry program:
- Register security cameras with Sheriff's Office
- Provide contact information for footage requests
- Helps investigators during major incidents
- Entirely voluntary—no obligation to provide footage
- Reduces investigative time and increases efficiency
Residential vs. Commercial Projects
Residential Security Cameras
- Licensed contractor required for installation
- Must comply with two-party consent (disable audio)
- Cannot point cameras at neighbor's private property
- Electrical permit may be required for new circuits
Commercial Security Cameras
- EL06 licensed contractor required
- Employee notification through prominent signage
- Cannot monitor bathrooms, locker rooms, or private offices
- Audio recording prohibited without all-party consent
- Consider registering with Sentinel program
Jurisdiction Determination
Spokane area has multiple jurisdictions with different permit requirements:
- City of Spokane: Permits through Development Services Center
- Spokane County: Use interactive map to confirm jurisdiction
- Spokane Valley: Separate permit center
- Unincorporated areas: WA L&I handles electrical permits
Pro Tips from Spokane Contractors
- Disable audio by default: Washington's two-party consent makes audio recording risky
- Post clear signage: "Video Surveillance in Progress" signs provide protection
- Determine jurisdiction first: Use Spokane County's interactive map before applying
- Get properly licensed: EL06 license required for security system work
- Consider Sentinel registration: Voluntary program helps law enforcement
- Plan for power: PoE systems reduce electrical permit requirements
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
Want to know when security camera 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.
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