Security Camera Permit Requirements in Washington County, Arkansas
Join Low Voltage Nation — Find project opportunities and showcase your company to thousands of industry professionals
Security camera permit requirements for Washington County, Arkansas. Class E license required. Low voltage installations typically exempt from building permits.
Security Camera Permit Requirements in Washington County, Arkansas
Installing security cameras and video surveillance systems in Washington County—home to Fayetteville, Springdale, and the University of Arkansas—requires understanding local permit rules and state licensing regulations. This guide covers what low voltage contractors need to know about CCTV and surveillance projects in this part of Northwest Arkansas.
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?
Generally no for standalone security camera installations. Security cameras operating on low voltage (under 50 volts) typically do not require building permits in Washington County. However, you must hold an Arkansas Class E alarm license from the Arkansas State Police to legally install surveillance systems for clients. Some municipalities like Fayetteville may require alarm system registration.
When Are Permits Required in Washington County?
While the camera installation itself usually doesn't need a permit, certain project elements may trigger requirements:
Permits Usually Required
- New construction - Camera installation as part of new building construction
- Electrical work - Running new 120V circuits for power supplies
- Structural modifications - Mounting poles, wall penetrations, or roof attachments
- Trenching - Underground conduit for outdoor camera runs
- Commercial tenant improvements - When part of larger buildout projects
Permits Typically Not Required
- Low voltage wiring - Running Cat5e/Cat6 or coax cables
- PoE camera installations - Power over Ethernet systems
- Wireless camera systems - WiFi-connected cameras
- Surface-mounted equipment - Cameras and NVRs without structural changes
- Residential systems - Home security camera installations
Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Arkansas?
Yes. The Arkansas State Police requires a Class E alarm license for companies that sell, install, service, or inspect surveillance systems. This applies to both commercial and residential installations when performed for hire.
Arkansas Class E License Types
| License Type | Scope | Manager Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Class E Unrestricted | All alarm systems including code-mandated fire | NICET Level III or IV |
| Class E Restricted | Systems not required by fire code | NICET Level II |
| Class E-S (Single Station) | Residential single-station systems | Basic certification |
For security camera-only installations, a Class E Restricted license is typically sufficient. Learn more about Arkansas alarm contractor licensing requirements.
License Fees
- Company license: $600 initial, $300 renewal (2-year term)
- Technician registration: $40 initial, $40 renewal
- State exam: Administered Tuesdays at 9:00 AM at ASP Headquarters in Little Rock
How Do You Apply for Permits in Washington County?
When permits are needed, the application process depends on your location within the county.
Unincorporated Washington County
Contact Washington County Planning Department:
- Address: 280 N. College Ave, Suite 305, Fayetteville, AR 72701
- Phone: (479) 444-1717
- Website: washingtoncountyar.gov/planning
City of Fayetteville
Contact Fayetteville Building Safety Division:
- Address: 125 W. Mountain Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701
- Phone: (479) 575-8238
- Website: fayetteville-ar.gov/Building-Safety
- Online Portal: Civic Access Portal
Note: Fayetteville requires alarm system registration. Contact the city for current registration requirements and fees.
City of Springdale
Contact Springdale Building Department:
- Address: 201 Spring Street, Springdale, AR 72764
- Phone: (479) 750-8114
Other Municipalities
- Johnson: City Hall, (479) 521-7280
- Elkins: City Hall, (479) 643-2816
- Farmington: City Hall, (479) 267-3366
- Prairie Grove: City Hall, (479) 846-2461
- Lincoln: City Hall, (479) 824-3288
What Are the Fees and Timeline?
| Permit Type | Typical Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Low voltage (when required) | $25-$75 | 1-3 business days |
| Electrical permit | Based on scope | 3-5 business days |
| Commercial buildout | Based on valuation | 5-15 business days |
| Inspections | Included in permit | Schedule 24-48 hours ahead |
Arkansas Security Camera Laws
When installing cameras in Washington County, ensure compliance with Arkansas privacy laws:
- Public areas: Recording is generally permitted in areas with no reasonable expectation of privacy
- Audio recording: Arkansas is a one-party consent state for audio
- Private spaces: Never install cameras in bathrooms, changing areas, or other private spaces
- Neighbor privacy: Cameras should not record neighbors' private areas
- Consent required: Arkansas law requires consent when recording individuals in private spaces
- Video voyeurism: Using cameras to secretly observe people in private spaces is a criminal offense
Residential vs Commercial Projects
Residential Security Camera Installation
Home installations in Washington County typically require:
- No building permit for standard installations
- Class E license still required if installing for customers
- Homeowners can install their own systems without a license
- May need alarm registration in Fayetteville
Commercial Security Camera Installation
Business installations may involve:
- Coordination with property management or landlords
- Compliance with corporate security standards
- Integration with existing access control and alarm systems
- Network infrastructure considerations for IP cameras
- Permits when part of tenant improvement projects
Washington County Market Opportunities
Washington County offers strong demand for security camera installations:
- University of Arkansas: Campus security and research facilities
- Healthcare: Washington Regional and medical offices
- Retail: Shopping centers and restaurants on College Avenue corridor
- Education: Fayetteville and Springdale school districts
- Multi-family: Student housing and apartment complexes
- Entertainment: Walton Arts Center, Razorback athletics venues
Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors
- Get licensed first: The Class E license is non-negotiable for professional installations
- Check registration: Fayetteville may require alarm system registration
- Document compliance: Keep records of camera placements and customer consent
- Consider lighting: IR cameras need proper lighting assessment
- Network planning: IP camera bandwidth can strain existing networks
- Weather considerations: NWA weather requires outdoor-rated equipment
- Call before installation: Contact (479) 575-8238 to confirm permit requirements
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Washington County before they reach bid boards?
LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Arkansas and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.
Related Permit Guides for Washington County
We're building out permit guides for additional project types in Washington County. Check back soon for:
- Fire Alarm Permits in Washington County
- Access Control Permits in Washington County
- Structured Cabling Permits in Washington County
Additional Resources
Join 35,000+ Low Voltage Pros
Get weekly permit updates, tool deals, job opportunities, and industry news. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.