Security Camera Permit Requirements in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Quick Answer: Security camera installations in Winston-Salem, North Carolina typically require a low voltage electrical permit when running cable through building structures. The Winston-Salem Inspections Division processes permits through the BuildIT online system, serving all of Forsyth County. Contractors must hold a valid NC SP-LV license or alarm systems license, and all installations must comply with North Carolina surveillance laws.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

In Winston-Salem, permits are required for most electrical work including low voltage installations. Security camera projects typically need permits when:

• Running cables through walls, ceilings, or building infrastructure
• Installing conduit or cable pathways
• Commercial installations with multiple cameras
• Integrated systems combining CCTV with access control or alarms
• Systems requiring electrical connections beyond plug-in adapters
• Any installation as part of a larger construction project

Projects That May Be Exempt

• Wireless cameras with plug-in power adapters
• Single residential cameras without structural penetration
• Replacing existing cameras in same locations
• Battery-powered cameras requiring no wiring

Contact Winston-Salem Inspections at (336) 727-2624 to confirm requirements for your specific project.

North Carolina Contractor Licensing

Security camera installers in North Carolina need proper licensing:

NC Alarm Systems License

The NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board licenses contractors installing video surveillance systems for security purposes.

Requirements include:

• Two years of experience OR Certified Alarm Technician Level I course
• Background check and professional references
• Must hold NC electrical contractor license (Unlimited, Limited, Intermediate, or SP-LV)

SP-LV License

The NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors issues SP-LV licenses for low voltage installations including CCTV wiring.

For complete licensing information, see our North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

Winston-Salem Permit Application Process

The Inspections Division serves Forsyth County (except High Point, Kernersville, and King town limits):

Step 1: Register as Contractor

You must be a licensed Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Refrigeration contractor to schedule inspections or purchase permits via BuildIT.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Site plans showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Wiring diagrams and cable routing
• Contractor license verification

Step 3: Submit Application

Submit through the BuildIT online system:

• Online Portal: Winston-Salem BuildIT System
• Commercial Submittals: GeoCivix submission website
• Phone: (336) 727-2624 (Customer Service)
• General: (336) 727-2328

Step 4: Inspection

Schedule inspection through BuildIT when work is complete. Electrical low-voltage inspections must be completed prior to final building inspection and Certificate of Occupancy.

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Processing Time
Residential Low Voltage	$50 - $100	1-3 business days
Small Commercial (1-8 cameras)	$100 - $200	3-5 business days
Large Commercial System	$200 - $400+	5-10 business days
Part of Building Permit	Included	Per project schedule

Contact the Inspections Division for exact fee schedules.

Office Information

Location: Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building
100 E First Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
(P.O. Box 2511, Winston-Salem, NC 27102)

Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45 AM - 4:45 PM
Note: Permit Office closed first Wednesday of every month from 7:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Phone calls not received after 4:43 PM

North Carolina Privacy and Surveillance Laws

All security camera installations must comply with NC surveillance laws:

Video Recording Guidelines

North Carolina allows security cameras where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy:

• Public areas of businesses (lobbies, parking lots, retail floors)
• Exterior areas visible from public property
• Common areas with proper notice

Recording private spaces without consent violates NC law and can result in Class H felony charges.

Audio Recording - Critical Consideration

North Carolina is a one-party consent state. However, for commercial surveillance:

• Recording conversations where your system is not a party may violate the NC Electronic Surveillance Act
• Improper audio recording can be a Class H felony
• Recommendation: Disable audio on cameras in public areas, or post clear signage

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Home security cameras in Winston-Salem typically have simpler requirements:

• Permit usually required when running cables through walls
• Wireless and plug-in systems may be exempt
• Must respect neighbor privacy
• Audio recording requires consent awareness

Commercial Installations

Commercial CCTV systems require comprehensive planning:

• Full permit application with detailed plans
• Compliance with NC Building Code
• Employee notification for workplace surveillance
• Integration with fire alarm and access control systems
• Data storage considerations

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Use BuildIT: Online system streamlines permit applications and inspection scheduling
• Plan for office closures: Permit office is closed first Wednesday of each month until 9:45 AM
• Complete low voltage first: Electrical low-voltage inspection required before final building inspection
• Document cable routes: Photos of concealed work help during inspections
• Disable audio: Unless specifically needed and disclosed, disable audio to avoid privacy complications
• Weather protection: Outdoor cameras need proper IP ratings for North Carolina climate

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Greensboro, NC
• Security Camera Permits in Raleigh, NC
• Security Camera Permits in Charlotte, NC
• North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide