Security Camera Permit Requirements in Washington County, Utah

Installing security cameras in Washington County requires understanding both local building permit requirements and Utah state licensing rules. Washington County's Community Development Department handles permits for unincorporated areas, while individual cities like St. George, Hurricane, and Washington City have their own permitting processes.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic camera installations. Most security camera installations in Washington County don't require a building permit since they typically involve low-voltage wiring under 25 volts and minimal structural work. However, larger commercial installations involving electrical modifications or structural changes may require permits. Always verify with Washington County for your specific project.

What Security Camera Work Requires a Permit in Washington County?

According to Washington County Community Development, permits may be required for the following camera work:

• Commercial surveillance systems requiring new electrical circuits
• Installations requiring structural modifications (poles, equipment enclosures)
• Camera systems integrated with access control or alarm systems requiring electrical work
• Any work involving modifications to existing electrical panels
• Projects requiring trenching or conduit installation
• Systems in fire-rated spaces requiring fire stopping

When Is a Permit NOT Required?

Most residential and small commercial camera installations are exempt:

• Low-voltage camera systems operating under 25 volts and 50 watts
• Wireless camera installations
• Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras
• Surface-mounted cameras using existing power outlets
• Replacing existing cameras with similar equipment
• Most PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems

When in doubt, contact Washington County Community Development to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Utah?

Yes for professional installers. Utah requires contractors performing security camera work to hold appropriate licensing from the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Requirements include:

• Low Voltage License: Required for systems operating up to 95 volts
• Age requirement: Must be at least 18 years old
• Experience: Four years of experience in the low voltage field
• Examination: Pass a written exam covering fire alarms, access control, video surveillance, security systems, and structured cabling
• Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years

For complete licensing requirements, see our Utah Low Voltage License Guide.

Utah Security Camera Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand Utah's privacy requirements:

Video Recording

• No permission needed for video surveillance in public places
• Consent required for cameras in areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Recording in bathrooms, bedrooms, or private spaces is strictly illegal
• Violating privacy laws is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine)

Audio Recording

• Utah is a one-party consent state
• You can record conversations you're a party to
• Third-party recording of private conversations without consent is illegal
• Most commercial security systems should not record audio unless actively engaged in conversation

How to Apply for a Permit in Washington County

If your project requires a permit, follow these steps:

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is in unincorporated Washington County (cities have their own processes)
2. Create account: Register on the City Inspect online portal
3. Submit application electronically: The department only accepts electronic applications
4. Complete application: Include project details and scope of work
5. Submit required documents: Site plans, equipment specifications
6. Pay permit fees
7. Schedule inspections after installation is complete

Required Documentation

• Building permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license verification
• For commercial projects: Wiring diagrams and equipment cut sheets

What Are the Permit Fees in Washington County?

Permit Type	Estimated Fee
Basic electrical permit	$75-$150
Commercial permit	$150-$300+
Plan review (if required)	Additional percentage of permit fee
Re-inspection fee	$50+

Fees vary based on project scope. Contact Washington County Community Development for exact quotes.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Stage	Typical Timeline
Simple permit approval	1-5 business days
Commercial plan review	5-10 business days
Inspection scheduling	1-2 business days
Final inspection	Same day if passed

Residential vs Commercial Security Camera Permits

Residential Projects

Home security camera installations are usually straightforward:

• Most residential systems are permit-exempt
• Wireless and PoE systems typically don't require permits
• Focus on privacy compliance (no cameras pointing at neighbors' private areas)
• HOA restrictions may apply in some neighborhoods

Commercial Projects

Business surveillance installations may require more consideration:

• Larger systems may trigger permit requirements
• Employee notification requirements may apply
• Integration with alarm systems adds licensing requirements
• Fire code compliance for equipment rooms
• ADA accessibility considerations for monitoring stations

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Cities within Washington County (St. George, Hurricane, etc.) have different requirements than unincorporated areas
• Use electronic submission: Washington County only accepts electronic permit applications
• Document camera placement: Create a site plan even if not required for permits
• Consider privacy zones: Configure cameras to exclude neighboring properties
• Audio considerations: Default to video-only unless there's a specific legal need for audio

Washington County Contact Information

• Department: Community Development
• Director: Scott Messel
• Address: 111 East Tabernacle St., St. George, UT
• Website: washco.utah.gov/departments/community-development
• Permit Documents: Building Permit Documents
• Book Inspection: Request Inspection

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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