Intercom System Permit Requirements in Wisconsin

Do you need a permit to install intercom systems in Wisconsin? The Badger State has no statewide low voltage licensing requirements, though some cities like Milwaukee have local regulations. Understanding Wisconsin's mixed regulatory environment helps contractors serve customers in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and across the state.

State-Level Requirements

Wisconsin regulates electrical work through the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), but low voltage work has minimal state requirements.

No Statewide Low Voltage License

• Under 50 Volts: No state license required
• Over 50 Volts: Electrical contractor registration required
• Experience for Electrical: 4 years for registration
• Local Rules Apply: Cities may have additional requirements

DSPS Electrical Contractor Registration

For work involving more than 50 volts:

• Electrical contractor registration required
• 4 years of electrical experience needed
• Application through DSPS

Milwaukee Local Requirements

Milwaukee has specific low voltage licensing unlike the rest of the state:

Type LB License (Burglar/Security)

• Scope: Low voltage (100 volts or less) burglar and security alarm systems
• Requirement: NTS Level II certified employee with full authority over work
• Installers: Must hold minimum NTS Level I certification

Type LF License (Fire Alarm)

• Scope: Fire alarm systems
• Requirement: NICET Level II Fire Alarm certified employee
• Installers: Must hold minimum NICET Level I certification

Other Milwaukee Low Voltage Types

• Type LC - Communications
• Type LT - Technology systems

When Permits Are Required

Location	Work Type	License/Permit
Statewide	Under 50V intercom	No state requirement
Statewide	Over 50V work	DSPS registration
Milwaukee	Security/alarm integration	Type LB license
Milwaukee	Fire alarm	Type LF license
Any city	New construction	Building permit

Major Cities in Wisconsin

Milwaukee

Milwaukee has the most comprehensive local low voltage licensing in Wisconsin. The city requires specific licenses (LB, LF, LC, LT) for various low voltage work. Contact Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services at (414) 286-2268 for specific requirements.

Madison

As the state capital, Madison follows state rules without additional local low voltage licensing. Building permits required for new construction. Contact the Building Inspection Division for commercial projects.

Green Bay

Green Bay follows state requirements. No separate local low voltage license. Building permits for commercial construction through the city.

Kenosha

Kenosha aligns with state regulations. No additional local low voltage requirements beyond state rules.

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Intercom

• No state license required for under 50V
• Consumer products (Ring, Nest) homeowner-installable
• Professional installation recommended for hardwired
• Milwaukee: Check local requirements
• Must comply with NEC Article 725

Commercial Intercom

• No state license for under 50V standalone
• Milwaukee: Appropriate local license required
• Building permits for new construction
• Security integration may trigger requirements
• Insurance requirements from property owners

NEC Compliance

Wisconsin follows the National Electrical Code:

• Current Edition: Wisconsin incorporated NEC since 1972
• Updates: DSPS updating to 2023 NEC
• Article 725: Class 2 and Class 3 circuits
• SPS 316: Wisconsin electrical code rules

Certification Benefits

While not required statewide, certifications help in Wisconsin:

• NTS Certification: Required for Milwaukee Type LB
• NICET Certification: Required for Milwaukee Type LF
• ESA/SIA Training: Industry credibility
• Manufacturer Certifications: Product-specific training

Application Process (Milwaukee)

Type LB License Steps

1. Ensure NTS Level II certified employee on staff
2. Verify all installers have NTS Level I minimum
3. Submit affidavit documenting certifications
4. Apply to Milwaukee Dept of Neighborhood Services
5. Pay applicable fees
6. Receive low voltage license

Contact Information

Wisconsin DSPS:
4822 Madison Yards Way
Madison, WI 53705
Phone: (608) 266-2112
Website: dsps.wi.gov

Milwaukee DNS:
Phone: (414) 286-2268
Website: milwaukee.gov/dns

Insurance Requirements

• General Liability: Recommended for all contractors
• Workers' Compensation: Required with employees
• Bonding: May be required for commercial work

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license for intercom installation in Wisconsin?

At the state level, no license is required for low voltage work under 50 volts. However, Milwaukee and some other cities have local licensing requirements.

What certifications does Milwaukee require?

Milwaukee requires NTS Level II for supervising security/alarm work (Type LB) and NICET Level II for supervising fire alarm work (Type LF). Installers need Level I certifications.

Can a homeowner install their own intercom?

Yes. Homeowners can install intercom systems in their own residence without licensing throughout Wisconsin.

Do I need different licenses for different cities?

Potentially. Milwaukee has specific requirements that other Wisconsin cities don't have. Always check local requirements when working in new jurisdictions.

Related Permits You May Need

• Access Control Permits in Wisconsin
• Security Camera Permits in Wisconsin
• Fire Alarm Permits in Wisconsin

Find Intercom Projects in Wisconsin

Looking for intercom installation opportunities in Wisconsin? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across the Badger State, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.

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Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Always verify with Wisconsin DSPS and local building departments before beginning work.