Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Washington

Installing burglar alarm systems in Washington State requires proper licensing through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Understanding the Evergreen State's EL06 Limited Energy requirements helps contractors stay compliant while serving customers in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, and across Washington.

State Licensing Requirements

Washington State regulates alarm contractors through the Department of Labor & Industries Electrical Program.

EL06 Limited Energy License

The 06 Limited Energy license covers alarm systems including:

• Burglar Alarm Systems: Intrusion detection
• Fire Alarm Systems: Detection and notification
• Access Control: Electronic entry systems
• Video Surveillance: Security camera systems
• Monitoring Connections: Central station tie-ins

License Requirements

• Experience: 4,000 hours supervised training
• Supervision: Minimum 75% during training
• Examination: Pass state exam through PSI
• Application: Submit to L&I Electrical Program

Local Alarm Permits

Washington municipalities require alarm user permits:

Seattle

• Alarm Permit Required: Yes
• Registration: Seattle Police Department
• False Alarm Policy: Fines after multiple false alarms
• Fee: Contact SPD for current rates

Tacoma

• Alarm Permit Required: Yes
• Administration: Tacoma Police Department
• False Alarm Ordinance: Progressive fines

Spokane

• Alarm Permit Required: Yes
• Registration: Spokane Police Department
• Eastern Washington: Separate from Seattle metro

Bellevue

• Alarm Permit Required: Yes
• Administration: Bellevue Police
• High-tech corridor: Significant commercial activity

Examination Requirements

Washington exams administered by PSI:

1. Submit experience documentation to L&I
2. Await application approval
3. Register with PSI
4. Schedule examination
5. Pass with required score

Exam Topics

• NEC requirements for Class 2/3 circuits
• Alarm system installation practices
• Power limited systems
• Safety requirements

False Alarm Regulations

Washington municipalities enforce false alarm ordinances:

Common Policies

• Grace Period: Usually 2-3 free responses
• Progressive Fines: Escalate with occurrences
• Annual Reset: Most reset each calendar year
• Verified Response: Some jurisdictions implementing

Reducing False Alarms

1. Use appropriate motion sensor technology
2. Position sensors away from environmental triggers
3. Program adequate entry/exit delays
4. Train all users on proper operation
5. Schedule regular maintenance

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Burglar Alarm

• EL06 license required for professional installers
• Local alarm permit required for monitoring
• DIY installation permitted for homeowners
• False alarm fines apply to property owner
• Must comply with NEC

Commercial Burglar Alarm

• EL06 license mandatory
• Business alarm permit required locally
• Building permits for new construction
• Higher false alarm fines may apply
• Insurance may require UL-listed systems

Trainee Requirements

• Registration: Must register with L&I as trainee
• Supervision: 75% minimum supervised work
• Hour Documentation: Track all training hours
• Qualified Supervisor: Licensed 06 technician

Application Process

Steps to Obtain License

1. Register as trainee with L&I
2. Complete 4,000 hours supervised training
3. Submit application with documentation
4. Await L&I review
5. Register with PSI for exam
6. Pass state examination
7. Receive electrician certificate

Contact Information

Washington L&I Electrical Program
PO Box 44460
Olympia, WA 98504-4460
Phone: (360) 902-5269
Email: ElectricalProgram@Lni.wa.gov
Website: lni.wa.gov/electrical

Insurance Requirements

• General Liability: Required for contractors
• Workers' Compensation: Through L&I system
• Bonding: May be required for contractor license
• E&O Insurance: Recommended for design work

Industry Standards

Washington expects compliance with:

• NEC Article 725: Class 2 and Class 3 circuits
• NFPA 731: Electronic premises security
• UL Standards: System certification
• Washington State amendments: As applicable

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install my own alarm system in Washington?

Yes. Homeowners can install alarm systems in their own residence without a license. For professional monitoring, you'll need a local alarm permit.

How long does EL06 licensing take?

The 4,000 hours of supervised training typically takes about 2 years full-time. Add time for application processing and exam scheduling.

Do I need a separate fire alarm license?

The EL06 license covers both burglar and fire alarm systems. However, fire alarm work may have additional inspection requirements through the local fire marshal.

What happens if I work without a license?

Operating without proper L&I licensing can result in fines, stop-work orders, and legal penalties. Washington actively enforces electrical licensing requirements.

Related Permits You May Need

• Fire Alarm Permits in Washington
• Access Control Permits in Washington
• Security Camera Permits in Washington

Find Alarm Projects in Washington

Looking for burglar alarm installation opportunities in Washington? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across the Evergreen State, alerting you to commercial and residential projects the moment they're filed.

Explore Signal

Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Always verify with Washington L&I and local authorities before beginning work.