The Wire

Tennessee does not typically require permits for standalone intercom installations. Contractors performing alarm system work need a Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractor License through the Department of Commerce. No exam is required, but proper business registration, insurance, and employee registration are mandatory. Work under 70 volts representing less than 50% of total business may be exempt.

Feb 8, 2026

South Dakota does not require a state alarm contractor license. The state exempts alarm and communication companies working on Class 2/3 circuits from electrical licensing. Local alarm user permits may be required in cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City for monitored systems. No state registration exists for alarm companies, making South Dakota one of the most contractor-friendly states for security system installation.

Feb 8, 2026

South Dakota does not require permits or special licensing for most intercom installations. The state exempts alarm and communication companies working on Class 2/3 circuits from electrical licensing. This makes South Dakota one of the most contractor-friendly states for low voltage work. Standard business registration and NEC compliance are the only requirements for professional intercom installation.

Feb 8, 2026

South Carolina requires a SLED Alarm Contractor License for burglar alarm installation, service, and monitoring. Technicians must hold NTS Level I or II certification and pass background checks. Local municipalities require alarm user permits with false alarm ordinances. Understanding state licensing through SLED and local permit requirements is essential for alarm contractors in the Palmetto State.

Feb 8, 2026

South Carolina does not require permits for most standalone intercom installations. Contractors installing alarm systems or integrating intercoms with access control may need SLED licensing. Fire alarm integration requires LLR licensure with NICET certification. Basic residential and commercial intercom work is largely unregulated at the state level, though local jurisdictions may have additional requirements.

Feb 8, 2026

Rhode Island requires appropriate contractor certificates for alarm work. Fire alarm needs Certificate AF ($75 application + $240 license). Security work may fall under electrical contractor certification. Local jurisdictions may have alarm registration requirements.

Feb 8, 2026

Rhode Island requires appropriate contractor certificates for intercom installation. Certificate A (electrical) or AF (fire alarm) depending on integration. Specialty licenses require 2,000+ hours experience. Local jurisdictions require permits for commercial work.

Feb 8, 2026

Oregon requires a Class A Limited Energy Technician (LEA) license for burglar alarm installation. Alarms are classified as protective signaling systems. Requires 4,000-8,000 hours experience and 75% on a 52-question exam. Local jurisdictions have alarm registration requirements.

Feb 8, 2026

Oregon requires a Limited Energy Technician license for intercom installation. Class A (LEA) covers alarm-integrated systems while Class B (LEB) covers basic intercoms. Both cover systems under 100 volt-amperes. Oregon already uses "limited energy" terminology aligned with NEC 2026.

Feb 8, 2026

Oklahoma requires an alarm company license through the Construction Industries Board to install burglar alarms. Applications require manager certification and fingerprint cards. License numbers must appear on all business materials. Most municipalities have alarm registration requirements.

Feb 8, 2026

Oklahoma regulates electrical work through the Construction Industries Board. Alarm-integrated systems require specific alarm company licensing with manager credentials and fingerprint cards. License numbers must appear on all business materials.

Feb 8, 2026

North Dakota requires a Power Limited Electrician license for burglar alarm installation. The license requires 2.5 years (6,000 hours) supervised experience and a trade exam. Contracting licensees need $500K liability insurance. Local jurisdictions may have alarm registration.

Feb 8, 2026

North Dakota requires a Power Limited Electrician license for intercom installation. The license requires 2.5 years (6,000 hours) of supervised experience and passing a trade exam with 70% score. Contracting licensees need $500K liability insurance.

Feb 8, 2026

New Mexico requires an ES-3 Low Voltage Special Systems License for burglar alarm installation. The license requires 2 years experience and two exams with 75% passing scores. Local jurisdictions may have alarm registration and false alarm ordinances.

Feb 8, 2026

New Mexico requires an ES-3 Low Voltage Special Systems License for intercom installation. The license requires 2 years foreman-level experience and passing two exams with 75% scores. Covers systems operating at 50 volts or less.

Feb 8, 2026