Security Camera Permit Requirements in St. Paul, Minnesota

Installing security cameras in St. Paul requires understanding Minnesota's contractor licensing requirements and state privacy laws. Unlike Minneapolis, St. Paul does not have a mandatory camera registration ordinance for most businesses. This guide covers what low voltage contractors and business owners need to know for compliant installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no standalone permit is required for security camera installation in St. Paul. St. Paul does not mandate camera registration for typical businesses like Minneapolis does. However, contractors must hold appropriate Minnesota Power Limited Technician (PLT) or Technology Systems Contractor licenses. Electrical permits may be required if installation involves line-voltage work.

When Are Permits or Registration Required?

St. Paul security camera permits or special requirements apply in these situations:

• Skyway system properties: Businesses connected to St. Paul's skyway must submit surveillance plans to the St. Paul Police Department
• Electrical work: Line-voltage power connections may require electrical permits
• New construction: Camera infrastructure included in building permits
• City facilities: Special approval for cameras on city property

What Are St. Paul Skyway Camera Requirements?

Properties connected to the St. Paul skyway system have specific surveillance requirements:

• Surveillance plan must be submitted to St. Paul Police Department
• Sufficient camera placement to meet minimum public safety needs
• Camera locations reviewed for compliance with city standards
• Video system must meet police department specifications

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Minnesota requires specific licenses for security camera installation:

• Power Limited Technician (PLT) License: Required for individuals performing low-voltage work on Class 2/3 circuits
• Technology Systems Contractor (TSC) License: Required for businesses—responsible individual must hold PLT or Master Electrician license
• Electrical Contractor License: Required if installation involves line-voltage electrical work

For detailed licensing requirements, see our Minnesota Low Voltage License Guide.

License Application Process

Apply through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry:

• Criminal background check required
• Employment history verification
• 36 months experience for PLT license
• Must work as W2 employee of licensed contractor

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Fee	Timeline
Standard camera installation	No permit typically needed	N/A
Electrical permit (if required)	$50-150	1-3 business days
Skyway surveillance plan review	Contact SPPD	Varies
Technology Systems Contractor License	$188	Expires Feb even years
Power Limited Technician License	$188	Expires Feb even years

What Are Minnesota Privacy Laws for Cameras?

St. Paul installations must comply with Minnesota state privacy laws:

• Minnesota Statute § 609.746: Prohibits recording in areas with reasonable privacy expectations
• Recording prohibited: Bathrooms, bedrooms, changing rooms, locker rooms
• One-party consent: Minnesota allows audio recording if one party consents
• Data destruction (§ 325E.319): Businesses must securely destroy video data when no longer needed

What Are Residential vs Commercial Differences?

Residential Installations

• No permit typically required for exterior cameras
• No registration requirements
• Must comply with privacy laws—no recording neighbors' private areas
• Signage recommended but not legally required
• DIY installation allowed for plug-in or battery systems

Commercial Installations

• Licensed contractor recommended
• Skyway properties have mandatory surveillance requirements
• Data retention and destruction policies required
• Employee notification recommended
• Insurance may require specific camera specifications

How Do I Apply for Permits?

1. Determine if electrical work requires a permit
2. For skyway properties, contact St. Paul Police Department for surveillance plan review
3. Apply through St. Paul PAULIE online permit system
4. Ensure contractor holds valid PLT and TSC licenses

Contact St. Paul Safety and Inspections:
Website: stpaul.gov/PAULIE
Phone: 651-266-8989

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Skyway check: Always verify if property connects to skyway system before quoting
• Minneapolis vs St. Paul: Remember St. Paul doesn't require camera registration like Minneapolis does
• Data policies: Help commercial clients establish video retention and destruction procedures
• Audio recording: Clearly document consent if cameras include audio
• License verification: Use Minnesota DLI lookup to verify contractor credentials

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in St. Paul before they reach bid boards?

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

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