Access Control Permit Requirements in Washoe County, Nevada

Installing access control systems in Washoe County, Nevada requires understanding both local permit requirements and state contractor licensing. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits, licensing, fees, and the application process for access control installations in unincorporated Washoe County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic low voltage access control. Basic access control systems using existing power typically do not require building permits in Washoe County. Additionally, as of October 2024, Washoe County no longer requires alarm permits. However, projects involving new electrical circuits, door hardware modifications, or structural changes may require permits, and contractors still need proper state licensing.

When Are Access Control Permits Required in Washoe County?

While basic access control installations are often permit-exempt, Washoe County Building may require permits in these situations:

• New construction with integrated access infrastructure
• Commercial tenant improvements involving door access systems
• Installations requiring new electrical circuits
• Electric strike or magnetic lock installations requiring door modifications
• Systems integrated with fire alarm for emergency egress
• Structural modifications to door frames or walls

What Access Control Work Is Typically Exempt?

Most basic access control installations in Washoe County do not require building permits:

• Standalone card readers using existing power outlets
• Wireless access control systems not affecting building structure
• Keypad or fob readers on existing doors without modifications
• IP-based access control using existing network infrastructure
• Replacement of existing access control components
• Residential access control systems

Contact the Washoe County Building Program at building@washoecounty.us to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

What About Alarm Permits in Washoe County?

Important update: As of October 2024, Washoe County no longer requires alarm permits for unincorporated areas. However, access control systems in incorporated cities have different requirements:

• City of Reno: Requires alarm registration from the City for each property with a commercial or residential alarm system
• City of Sparks: Requires a Security Alarm License from the Police Department before business license issuance

What Contractor Licenses Do You Need for Access Control in Nevada?

Even though permits may not be required, proper contractor licensing is essential:

Nevada State Contractors Board C-2D License

The C-2D Low Voltage Systems license is required for contractors installing access control systems in Nevada. This covers the installation, alteration, and repair of systems that do not exceed 91 volts, including:

• Card readers and proximity systems
• Biometric access devices
• Keypads and PIN entry systems
• Electric strikes and magnetic locks
• Door controllers and panels
• Access control software integration

To obtain the C-2D license:

• Minimum 4 years experience as journeyman, foreman, or supervising employee
• Pass the Contractor Management Survey Exam
• Pass the C-2D Low Voltage Contractor Exam (35 questions, 70% passing score)
• Post a surety bond and provide proof of insurance
• Application fee: $300 | License fee: $600 for 2 years

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

No Privilege License Required in Unincorporated Washoe County

Unlike Clark County, no Privilege License is needed in unincorporated Washoe County for low voltage work. This simplifies the licensing process for contractors.

Multi-Jurisdictional Business License

Washoe County participates in the Multi-Jurisdictional License Process with Reno and Sparks. You can apply for licensing in multiple jurisdictions through your home jurisdiction, streamlining the process for contractors working across Northern Nevada.

How Do You Apply for an Access Control Permit (When Required)?

When permits are required, Washoe County uses an online permit system.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Determine if permit is required by emailing building@washoecounty.us
2. Complete the appropriate application from the Washoe County Building website
3. Prepare project documentation including door schedules, reader locations, and wiring diagrams
4. Upload application and materials to www.onenv.us
5. Pay applicable fees
6. Receive approved permit before beginning work
7. Schedule inspections via the Washoe County Inspections App, emailing inspections@washoecounty.us, or through www.onenv.us

EZ Permits for Licensed Contractors

Washoe County offers EZ Permits for licensed contractors. For certain permit types including electrical permits, contractors can apply, pay, and receive an issued permit the same day.

Contact Information

Washoe County Building Program
Email: building@washoecounty.us
Phone: (775) 328-6100
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Online Portal: www.onenv.us

What Building Codes Apply in Washoe County?

Washoe County has adopted the 2024 editions of the ICC codes and the 2023 NEC, effective July 1, 2025. A 6-month grace period provides transition during which either the new codes or old codes can be used, with full compliance with 2024 code editions required starting January 1, 2026.

Access control systems must also comply with:

• Fire code requirements for emergency egress doors
• ADA accessibility requirements for reader placement
• NFPA 72 when integrated with fire alarm systems

What Are the Differences Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Projects

Residential access control installations in Washoe County:

• No building permit typically required
• No alarm permit required (as of October 2024)
• No local Privilege License required
• State C-2D contractor license required
• Common systems include smart locks, video doorbells, and gate access

Commercial Projects

Commercial installations may require:

• Building permit if part of larger tenant improvement
• State C-2D contractor license
• Fire department coordination if affecting emergency egress doors
• ADA compliance verification for reader placement

Pro Tips for Access Control Contractors in Washoe County

Based on contractor experience in Northern Nevada:

• Use multi-jurisdictional licensing - Work across Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County with streamlined licensing
• Take advantage of EZ Permits - Same-day permit issuance for qualifying electrical projects
• Know the code transition - 2024 codes effective July 2025, mandatory January 2026
• Coordinate with fire alarm - Emergency egress doors need fire alarm integration
• Document door schedules - Keep records of all hardware specifications
• Plan for weather extremes - High desert climate requires hardware rated for temperature variations

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when commercial access control projects hit permits in Washoe County before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Nevada and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides in Northern Nevada

• Security Camera Permits in Washoe County, Nevada
• Fire Alarm Permits in Washoe County, Nevada
• Access Control Permits in Reno, Nevada
• Access Control Permits in Sparks, Nevada

Additional Resources

• Washoe County Building Program
• What Requires a Permit in Washoe County
• Washoe County Adopted Building Codes
• Nevada Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements