Security Camera Permit Requirements in Utah County, Utah

Installing security cameras in Utah County requires understanding both local building permit requirements and Utah state licensing rules. Utah County's Community Development Building Division handles permits for unincorporated areas, while individual cities within the county have their own permitting processes.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic camera installations. Most security camera installations in Utah County don't require a building permit since they typically involve low-voltage wiring under 25 volts and minimal structural work. However, permits may be required for commercial installations involving conduit, significant electrical work, or structural modifications. Always verify with the Utah County Building Division for your specific project.

What Security Camera Work Requires a Permit in Utah County?

According to Utah County Community Development, the following work may require a building permit:

• Commercial surveillance systems with extensive wiring
• Installations requiring new electrical circuits
• Camera systems integrated with access control or alarm systems requiring electrical work
• Structural modifications such as mounting poles or equipment enclosures
• Any work that involves trenching or conduit installation
• Projects in fire-rated spaces requiring fire stopping

When Is a Permit NOT Required?

Most residential and small commercial camera installations are exempt:

• Low-voltage camera systems operating under 25 volts and 50 watts
• Wireless camera installations
• Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras
• Surface-mounted cameras using existing power outlets
• Replacing existing cameras with similar equipment
• Most PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems

When in doubt, contact the Utah County Building Division at stevek@utahcounty.gov to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Utah?

Yes for professional installers. Utah requires contractors performing security camera work to hold appropriate licensing from the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Requirements include:

• Low Voltage License: Required for systems operating up to 95 volts
• Age requirement: Must be at least 18 years old
• Experience: Four years of experience in the low voltage field
• Examination: Pass a written exam covering fire alarms, access control, video surveillance, security systems, and structured cabling
• Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years

For complete licensing requirements, see our Utah Low Voltage License Guide.

Utah Security Camera Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand Utah's privacy requirements:

Video Recording

• No permission needed for video surveillance in public places
• Consent required for cameras in areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Recording in bathrooms, bedrooms, or private spaces is strictly illegal
• Violating privacy laws is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine)

Audio Recording

• Utah is a one-party consent state
• You can record conversations you're a party to
• Third-party recording of private conversations without consent is illegal
• Most commercial security systems should not record audio unless actively engaged in conversation

How to Apply for a Permit in Utah County

If your project requires a permit, follow these steps:

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is in unincorporated Utah County (cities have their own processes)
2. Obtain application: Download from Utah County Community Development
3. Complete application: Include project details and scope of work
4. Submit required documents: Site plans, equipment specifications, and contractor license
5. Pay permit fees
6. Schedule inspections after installation is complete

Required Documentation

• Building permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license verification
• For commercial projects: Wiring diagrams and equipment cut sheets

What Are the Permit Fees in Utah County?

Permit Type	Estimated Fee
Basic electrical permit	$50-$100
Commercial low-voltage permit	$100-$250+
Plan review (if required)	Additional 50-65% of permit fee
Re-inspection fee	$50+

Fees vary based on project scope. Contact Utah County Building Division for exact quotes.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Stage	Typical Timeline
Simple permit approval	1-3 business days
Commercial plan review	5-10 business days
Inspection scheduling	1-2 business days
Final inspection	Same day if passed

Residential vs Commercial Security Camera Permits

Residential Projects

Home security camera installations are usually straightforward:

• Most residential systems are permit-exempt
• Wireless and PoE systems typically don't require permits
• Focus on privacy compliance (no cameras pointing at neighbors' private areas)
• HOA restrictions may apply in some neighborhoods

Commercial Projects

Business surveillance installations may require more consideration:

• Larger systems may trigger permit requirements
• Employee notification requirements may apply
• Integration with alarm systems adds licensing requirements
• Fire code compliance for equipment rooms
• ADA accessibility considerations for monitoring stations

Inspection Requirements

If a permit is required, expect the following inspections:

• Underground/rough-in: Before concealing any wiring in walls or underground
• 4-Way inspection: Covers rough framing, electrical, mechanical work
• Final inspection: System testing and documentation review

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Cities within Utah County have different requirements than unincorporated areas
• Document camera placement: Create a site plan even if not required for permits
• Consider privacy zones: Configure cameras to exclude neighboring properties
• Label all equipment: Makes inspections faster and troubleshooting easier
• Keep records: Maintain installation documentation for warranty and service
• Audio considerations: Default to video-only unless there's a specific legal need for audio

Utah County Contact Information

• Utah County Community Development: codev.utahcounty.gov/building
• Building Official Email: stevek@utahcounty.gov
• Physical Address: Utah County Administration Building, 100 E Center St, Provo, UT 84606

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Utah County before they reach bid boards?

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Provo
• Security Camera Permits in Orem