Security Camera Permit Requirements in Vancouver, Washington

Installing security cameras in Vancouver, Washington requires understanding both local permit requirements and Washington State contractor licensing. As of April 2024, Vancouver follows the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), making compliance straightforward for experienced low voltage contractors. This guide covers everything you need to know about permits, licenses, and legal compliance in Vancouver and Clark County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

For most hardwired installations, yes. Security camera installations involving new low voltage wiring typically require an electrical permit. However, the jurisdiction for permits in Vancouver can vary:

• City of Vancouver: Contact the City Electrical Department for permits within city limits
• Clark County (unincorporated): Clark County does not issue electrical permits—use Washington State L&I

When Permits Are Required vs. Exempt

Permit Required

• New low voltage wiring runs for camera systems
• Commercial CCTV installations
• Systems integrated with building alarm or access control
• Installations requiring conduit or penetrations
• Camera systems with dedicated power circuits

Typically Exempt

• Wireless cameras with battery power
• Plug-in cameras using existing outlets
• Simple camera replacements on existing wiring
• Minimally-sized residential low voltage systems

Note: If you're unsure whether your work requires a permit, check WAC Chapter 296-46B-901 or contact the appropriate permit authority.

Permit Jurisdiction in Vancouver/Clark County

Understanding which authority to contact is critical in this area:

City of Vancouver (within city limits)

• Contact: City of Vancouver Electrical Department
• Phone: 360-487-7802
• Website: cityofvancouver.us

Unincorporated Clark County

• Clark County does not issue electrical permits
• Use Washington State L&I for electrical permits
• L&I Website: lni.wa.gov
• L&I Phone: 360-896-2300

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Washington State requires proper electrical licensing for security camera installations. The Washington EL06 Limited Energy License is the primary credential for low voltage contractors.

EL06 Limited Energy License

• Experience: 4,000 hours of supervised training
• Examination: Must pass the L&I Limited Energy System exam
• Business Requirements: Valid Washington contractor registration, bond, and insurance

Scope of EL06 License

The EL06 license allows installation of CCTV, surveillance, and security systems but does not permit:

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

Washington State Privacy Laws

Before installing security cameras in Vancouver, understand Washington's privacy requirements:

Two-Party Consent State

Washington is a two-party consent state under RCW 9.73.030:

• Audio recording: All parties must consent to being recorded
• Video-only: Generally permitted in public areas without consent
• Private areas: Never record in bathrooms, changing rooms, or areas with reasonable privacy expectation

Best Practice

Post visible signage indicating surveillance is in use, even when not legally required.

Clark County Alarm Registration

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring features, Clark County requires alarm user registration:

• Download the Clark County Alarm User Registration Form
• Registration helps ensure proper emergency response
• Separate registration required for each alarm site

Vancouver Permit Application Process

City of Vancouver

1. Contact Electrical Department: Call 360-487-7802 or visit the permit center
2. Submit Application: Provide project details and contractor license information
3. Pay Fees: Electrical permit fees are per item installed/altered
4. Schedule Inspection: Maximum two inspections per permit; additional inspections incur trip fees

Clark County (via L&I)

1. Online Application: Apply through L&I's electrical permit system
2. Contractor Verification: Include EL06 or appropriate license number
3. Pay Fees: Per L&I fee schedule
4. Schedule Inspection: Request through L&I

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Estimated Cost
Low Voltage Electrical Permit	$50-$125
Commercial Electrical Permit	$75-$200
Additional Inspection (trip fee)	$50-$75
Clark County Alarm Registration	Varies

Process Step	Typical Timeline
Permit Application Review	1-3 business days
Permit Issuance	Same day to 1 week
Inspection Scheduling	Same or next business day

Current Building Codes

As of April 2024, Vancouver has adopted:

• 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with WAC 51-50
• 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with WAC 51-51
• 2021 Washington State Energy Codes

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Security Cameras

• Simpler permit process if new wiring required
• Some minimal systems may be permit-exempt
• Focus on exterior placement and neighbor privacy
• Common systems: doorbell cameras, wireless cameras, basic NVR setups

Commercial CCTV Systems

• Must use licensed electrical contractor
• More comprehensive permit requirements
• Consider employee privacy policies
• May require integration with fire alarm egress systems

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: City of Vancouver vs. unincorporated Clark County determines where you get permits
• Clark County appointments required: All in-person services at the County Permit Center require appointments—email permitservicesappt@clark.wa.gov
• Disable audio by default: Washington's two-party consent law makes audio recording risky without proper consent
• Know inspection limits: Vancouver includes maximum two inspections per permit—plan accordingly
• Register alarms separately: If system has monitoring, complete Clark County alarm registration

Verify Your Contractor

Before hiring a security camera installer in Vancouver, verify credentials through the Washington L&I Contractor Verification Tool.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Vancouver 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 Seattle, WA
• Security Camera Permits in Tacoma, WA