Access Control System

The Access Control System application is for the installation of an electronic locking system known as an access control system in commercial establishments.

This will be a deferred plan submittal. Plans must comply with the current code adoption of the International Building and Fire Code.

What are commercial access controls composed of?

Commercial access control systems are made up of electronic locking devices, including all components that may grant or deny entry inside of a building using a key or code and an egress is always possible. If a fire alarm exists, the access control system is required to be connected.

Harris County requires all electronic locking systems to be permitted.

After approval, you may pay fees online from your E-Permits account. Once fees are paid you may download the approved plans and print out a paper copy of the permit. Please post the permit so that it is fully visible on the project site and have a paper copy of the approved plans onsite during construction.

• Electronic Locking Systems
• Property Search
• Request Open Records/Plans

• Name of owner and/or occupant/tenant
• Drawings must have the designer and installer’s information, including company name, phone number and address
• Provide a narrative description of the electronic locking release sequences. Include Fail Secure or Fail Safe notations as required by code
• Include a complete list of symbols
• Provide a materials list
• Make sure a wiring diagram – a one-line diagram of the electrical circuitry for the locks – is included
• All egress doors shall unlock simultaneously upon activation of any of the following: a smoke detector or fire sprinkler waterflow, a manual pull or in the event of a power failure
• All Fail Safe magnetic locks, re-entry stairs, elevator lobbies and electronic locking devices shall be subordinate to any fire alarm system

First time users will need to register for an account.

Make sure you are selecting the correct application type in order to avoid any unexpected delays!

Here are the steps for applying through E-Permits:

1. Access the E-Permits platform and log in
2. Navigate to the "Projects" section
3. Click on "Apply"
4. Locate your address on the map by either entering it or zooming in and double-clicking on the location
5. A "Red Pin" will appear on the map, and all associated data will be retrieved by E-Permits. If the address is incorrect, you can correct it on the next page
6. Click on the green "Apply" button
7. In the selection labeled "Application," choose "Access Control System"
8. Provide the required detailed information and click on "Next"
9. Complete the application page and click on "Next"
10. Upload all the necessary documents, and once finished, click on "Next"
11. Finally, review the disclaimer, select "Agree," and then click on "Submit Application"

Fire Code Review Group 

(713) 274-3922 

Email Fire Code Review Group

Permits Main Phone 

(713) 274-3900