Security Camera Permit Requirements in Washington County, Minnesota

Installing security cameras in Washington County, Minnesota? Understanding permit requirements and Minnesota's privacy laws helps contractors and property owners navigate compliance. This guide covers what you need to know across Washington County's cities and townships.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone camera installations. Most security camera systems in Washington County do not require permits when installed without electrical modifications. However, work involving new electrical circuits, structural penetrations, or alarm system integration may require permits from your local city. Washington County does not issue building permits directly—each municipality handles their own permitting.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Permit requirements are handled at the city and township level in Washington County. Here's when permits typically apply:

Permits Usually Required:

• New electrical circuits – Adding dedicated circuits for camera systems requires an electrical permit
• Conduit installation – Running conduit through walls or underground may require permits
• Commercial installations over 50V – Higher voltage systems need electrical permits
• Structural modifications – Penetrating fire-rated walls or rooflines requires building permits
• Alarm integration – Systems connected to monitoring may need alarm permits in some cities
• New construction – Security cameras included in overall building permit package

Permits Usually NOT Required:

• Battery or solar-powered cameras – No electrical work involved
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) systems – Using existing network infrastructure
• Wireless camera systems – Plugging into existing outlets
• Camera replacements – Swapping existing cameras without new wiring
• Standalone NVR/DVR installations – Equipment using existing power

Minnesota Security Camera Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand Minnesota's legal requirements:

Video Recording:

• Public areas: Generally legal where no privacy expectation exists
• Private property: Legal on your own property with limitations
• Prohibited locations: Bathrooms, bedrooms, changing rooms, and anywhere with reasonable privacy expectations

Audio Recording:

Minnesota is a one-party consent state (Minn. Stat. § 626A.02). At least one person in the conversation must consent to audio recording. For security cameras with audio, this typically means posting notice.

Signage:

While Minnesota doesn't explicitly require signage for video surveillance on private property, posting "Security Cameras in Use" signs is strongly recommended to:

• Deter criminal activity
• Prevent legal disputes
• Comply with audio recording laws
• Demonstrate transparency

What Contractor License Do You Need?

Minnesota requires proper licensing for security camera installation work:

For Individual Technicians:

Power Limited Technician (PLT) License from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) is required. Requirements include:

• 36 months (approximately 4,000 hours) of documented experience
• Registration as unlicensed worker during experience accumulation
• Pass the PLT examination (70% minimum, open-book)
• 16 hours continuing education every 2 years

For Companies:

Technology Systems Contractor (TSC) License is required to operate a security contracting business. Requirements:

• Designated responsible individual with PLT or master electrician license
• Business registration with Minnesota Secretary of State
• Insurance and bonding requirements

For complete licensing details, see our Minnesota Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits in Washington County?

Contact your local city or township building department. Key contacts:

City of Woodbury

Woodbury offers an online permit portal for applications and inspections.

• Building Inspections: 651-714-3543
• Address: 8301 Valley Creek Road, Woodbury, MN 55125
• Online Portal: woodburymn.gov/Building-Permits-Inspections

Note: Woodbury uses a combination permit system. Contractors must have a valid state license.

City of Stillwater

• Planning Department: PlanningDept@stillwatermn.gov
• Forms: stillwatermn.gov/forms
• Note: Legal property owner signature required for all applications

Other Major Cities:

City/Township	Building Department Contact
Cottage Grove	651-458-2833
Oakdale	651-739-5150
Lake Elmo	651-747-3900
Forest Lake	651-464-3550
Hugo	651-429-8531
Stillwater Township	651-439-6772

Washington County Contact:

For general permit inquiries:

• Website: washingtoncountymn.gov/Permits
• Note: Building permits are obtained through your city or township, not the county

Application Process:

1. Determine if permit needed – Call your local building department
2. Prepare documentation – Site plans, equipment specifications, wiring diagrams
3. Submit application – Online (Woodbury) or in-person for other cities
4. Pay fees – Varies by city and project scope
5. Schedule inspection – Required for permitted work

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Typical Fee Range	Processing Time
Basic Electrical Permit	$50-$100	Same day to 3 days
Low Voltage Only	Often exempt	N/A
Commercial (with plan review)	$100-$250	5-10 business days
Alarm System Registration	$25-$50 (if required)	Same day

Contact your specific city for exact fees—these vary by municipality.

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial?

Residential Installations:

• Generally simpler permit requirements
• Most DIY-friendly wireless systems need no permit
• Homeowner can self-install without license (own property only)
• Privacy considerations for neighboring properties

Commercial Installations:

• Professional licensed installation typically required
• Plan review may be required for larger systems
• Employee notification requirements may apply
• Integration with access control or alarm systems
• Data retention and storage compliance considerations

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Unlike some neighboring counties (such as Anoka County's Camera Registry Program), Washington County does not currently have a formal voluntary camera registry program for residents and businesses. However, you can contact the Sheriff's Office for crime prevention resources:

• Washington County Sheriff: 651-430-7600
• Website: washingtoncountymn.gov/Sheriffs-Office

The Sheriff's Office partners with citizens in promoting safe communities through crime prevention and public education programs.

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Check local requirements first – Each of Washington County's cities has slightly different processes. A quick call saves time.
• Post signage – Even without a legal requirement, "Security Cameras in Use" signs deter crime and prevent disputes.
• Mind the property line – Cameras should focus on your property, not neighbors' private areas.
• Call before you dig – Contact Gopher State One Call (811) before any underground conduit work.
• Document everything – Photos before, during, and after installation protect everyone.
• Consider audio carefully – If enabling audio, post clear notice to comply with one-party consent law.
• Stay current on NEC – Minnesota adopted the 2023 NEC effective July 1, 2023.

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 Minnesota and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

Looking for permit requirements for other low voltage project types? Check back soon as we expand our Washington County coverage:

• Fire Alarm Permits in Washington County (Coming Soon)
• Access Control Permits in Washington County (Coming Soon)
• Structured Cabling Permits in Washington County (Coming Soon)

For state-level licensing information, see our Minnesota Low Voltage License Guide.