Electrical Permit Requirements for Alarm System and Voice, Data, Video Installations
January 19, 2026
Other than the exceptions listed below, electrical permits and inspections are required for all electrical work involved in the installation of intrusion and similar alarm systems in all structures. Electrical permits and inspections ensure that low -voltage systems are installed safely and in compliance with Code requirements.
A permit and inspections must be obtained for the new installation of the following:
- intrusion or similar alarm systems
- nurse call systems
- voice, data and video systems , including :
o telephone
o data
o public address
o community antennae television (CATV)
o security camera
For replacement of system s where existing wiring that has been inspected under a previous electrical permit is being re-used, a reduced fee may apply. Contractors must indicate to which devices this applies on the permit application.
Exceptions
A permit for low voltage voice, data, video, or alarm systems is not needed for:
- Installations in a single detached house.
- Wireless security camera or alarm system s, i.e., plug and play systems that d o not require 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
Installer requirements
A licensed electrical contractor is required to install intrusion alarm and security systems in all buildings
other than single detached houses.
The contractor must hold one of the following City of Winnipeg electrical contractor licences to obtain a n electrical permit for this work:
- Contractor A licence
- Contractor C-VDVlicence for voice, data, video, or C-alarm installer licence (as applicable for the installation)
For information on electrical contractor licensing, visit the Electrical licensed contractor information page.
Homeowners and business owners hiring a contractor to perform these installation s should ensure their contractor holds either 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.
A Winnipeg Police Service alarm permit may also be required for intrusion alarm systems in homes or businesses.
