Security Camera Permit Requirements in Wake County, North Carolina

Quick Answer: Wake County generally does not require permits for standard security camera installations that operate on low voltage (under 50V) and do not involve structural modifications. However, commercial installations may require trade permits when electrical work is involved, and all contractors must hold proper North Carolina licensing.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras in Wake County?

Wake County Inspections & Permits provides building inspection and permitting services for unincorporated areas of Wake County and contracted municipalities including Knightdale, Rolesville, Wendell, and Zebulon. Understanding when permits apply to your security camera project depends on several factors:

Permits Typically Required

• New electrical circuits to power camera systems
• Installations requiring conduit or pathway construction
• Penetrations through fire-rated walls or assemblies
• Commercial projects as part of larger tenant improvements
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring electrical service
• Systems integrated with building fire alarm or access control

Typically Exempt from Permits

• Wireless security cameras using existing power outlets
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras using existing network infrastructure
• Battery-powered or solar-powered surveillance cameras
• Replacing existing cameras with similar equipment
• Residential DIY installations without new electrical work

North Carolina Licensing Requirements

North Carolina requires proper licensing for security camera installation contractors. Multiple agencies regulate this work:

NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors (NCBEEC)

The NCBEEC issues licenses for low-voltage electrical work:

• SP-LV (Limited): Low-voltage systems including CCTV, video surveillance, and security systems
• SP-FA/LV: Combined fire alarm and low-voltage classification
• Unlimited License: Full electrical license that includes low-voltage work

NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board

The NC DPS Alarm Systems Licensing Board regulates alarm and surveillance system businesses:

• Company business license required for alarm systems businesses in NC
• Individual agents must have 2+ years experience or complete Certified Alarm Technician Level I course
• Criminal background check required for past 60 months
• References and qualifications verification

For comprehensive licensing information, see our North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

Wake County Permit Application Process

When permits are required for security camera installations in Wake County:

Step 1: Verify Jurisdiction

Wake County serves unincorporated areas. Use the Wake County iMaps tool to verify your property's jurisdiction. Look for "WC" as your planning jurisdiction.

Step 2: Determine Permit Type

For security camera work, you'll typically need:

• Trade Permit: For electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work when a building permit isn't required
• Electrical Permit: For new circuits or electrical modifications

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply through the Wake County Permit Portal or contact:

• Email: Wake.Permitting@wake.gov
• Website: wakegov.com/inspect

Step 4: Inspection

Request inspections before 3:00 PM for next business day scheduling. Inspections verify:

• Proper electrical connections and grounding
• Code-compliant conduit and cable installation
• Fire-stopping at rated assembly penetrations
• Equipment installation per manufacturer specifications

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Fee	Timeline
Residential Trade Permit	$75	1-3 business days
Commercial Trade Permit	Varies by scope	3-5 business days
Electrical Permit	Based on job value	1-5 business days
Inspection	Included in permit	Next business day

Note: The $75 residential trade permit fee covers electrical, mechanical, and plumbing regardless of number of trades involved.

North Carolina Security Camera Laws

Beyond permits and licensing, installers and property owners must understand NC surveillance laws:

Video Recording

• Security cameras are legal in public areas and on your property
• Recording in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy (bathrooms, changing rooms) is prohibited under NCGS §14-202
• Violating privacy laws is a Class I felony with up to 24 months imprisonment

Audio Recording

• North Carolina is a one-party consent state (NCGS §15A-287)
• At least one party to a conversation must consent to audio recording
• Surveillance cameras recording audio of conversations where no party consents may violate the law
• Pro tip: Disable audio recording on commercial surveillance systems to avoid compliance issues

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Homeowners in Wake County may perform their own security camera installation if:

• They own the property
• They will personally occupy the structure
• Work doesn't require new electrical circuits (or they pull proper permits)

Commercial Installations

Commercial security camera projects require:

• Licensed contractor with appropriate NCBEEC credentials
• Alarm Systems Licensing Board company license for monitoring integration
• Permits for any electrical or structural modifications
• Compliance with building and fire codes

Pro Tips for Wake County Projects

• Check jurisdiction first: Wake County vs. municipal jurisdiction affects where you apply for permits
• Verify contractor licenses: Use the NCBEEC License Lookup before hiring
• Disable audio recording: Avoid one-party consent complications on commercial systems
• Use PoE cameras: Power over Ethernet often eliminates need for electrical permits
• Document camera placement: Maintain records showing cameras don't violate privacy expectations
• Consider signage: "Video Surveillance in Use" signs provide legal protection and deter crime

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• North Carolina Low Voltage License Requirements
• Raleigh, NC Security Camera Permits
• Durham, NC Security Camera Permits
• Charlotte, NC Security Camera Permits