Voice, data, video & security systems

Electrical permits and inspections are needed for certain installations of security and similar alarm systems. This makes sure low voltage systems are safely installed and meet Code requirements.

Examples of low voltage systems that need a permit and inspection include:

  • Security or similar alarm systems
  • Nurse call systems
  • Voice, data, & video (VDV) systems:
    • telephone
    • data
    • public address
    • community antennae television (CATV)
    • security camera

A reduced fee may apply for replacement systems where existing wiring inspected under a previous electrical permit is being re-used. Contractors must indicate what device(s) this applies to on the permit application.

Note: A Winnipeg Police Service alarm permit may also be required for intrusion alarm systems in homes or businesses.

 

Apply online for an electrical permit

Submit your application for an electrical permit using Permits Online. Before applying, ensure you’re familiar with application requirements.

Permits Online

Important: Incomplete applications will result in delays.

 

Who can apply

A licensed electrical contractor is needed to install security and similar alarm systems in all buildings, other than single detached houses. The contractor must have an electrical A, C-alarm, or C-VDV licence from the City of Winnipeg to get an electrical permit for VDV or security systems.

Visit electrical licensed contractor information & exams for information about contractor licensing.

Note: There are provincial licensing requirements for VDV installers. If you are hiring a contractor to perform these installations, ensure the contractor holds a Manitoba journeyperson electrician licence or a limited specialized trade licence for alarm installer (M-F) or for voice, data, video (M-V), as applicable. 

See Province of Manitoba bulletin 21-036 for details.

 

How to apply

  • Permit applications can be submitted via Permits Online.
  • If you cannot access Permits Online, application forms may be dropped off at the Zoning & Permits office.

View application form (PDF, 325KB)

Zoning & Permits
Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Unit 31-30 Fort Street

 

When a permit is not needed

A permit for low voltage VDV/security systems is not needed for:

  • Installations in a single detached house.
  • Wireless security camera or alarm systems, i.e., plug and play systems that do not need any wiring or electrical raceways other than plugging into an existing electrical wall outlet.
  • Repair of security camera or alarm system components where the system was inspected under a previous electrical permit. No new wiring or electrical raceways are being installed.

 

Low-risk VDV & security systems

If an electrical permit application qualifies as a low-risk VDV/security system installation, the permit will be automatically issued.

Applications must be submitted through Permits Online.

To qualify, installations will not be:

  • in a building more than six storeys high
  • in an electrically hazardous area
  • in a patient care area
  • part of a new construction
  • associated with a building permit

Installations will not include more than a combined total of 20 of the following:  

  • intrusion alarm devices
  • speakers
  • amplifiers
  • CCTV outlets
  • data outlets
  • data racks

If an application does not meet all the above criteria, it will be processed as a regular installation. It will not be eligible for immediate permit issuance or the selective inspection program.

Inspections may be required

Inspection requests must be submitted for low-risk VDV/security system electrical permits. These permits are subject to a selective inspection program and may not be inspected. When an inspection is not required, the contractor will be notified within one business day of the inspection request. Permits will be closed automatically if an inspection is not needed. All work must comply with applicable laws, bylaws, codes, and standards.

 

Questions?

Get help by calling Permits Direct Line at 204-986-5140 or by visiting our contact directory.

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