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TextFire Marshal Permit Requirements
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OVERVIEW
The Fairfax County Office of the Fire Marshal administers and issues two categories of permits which include construction permits and Fire Prevention Code Permits.
Construction Permits
Construction permits allow the permit applicant to install or modify systems and equipment for which a permit is required under Section 108 of the Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), Section 108.5 of the Fire Prevention Code, and the Fairfax County Public Facilities Manual (PFM).The Fire Marshal is authorized to act on behalf of the Fairfax County Building Official (DPWES) regarding enforcement of the USBC which includes processing and issuing construction permits.
In addition to FPD Fire Permits, construction permits issued on behalf of DPWES include low-voltage electrical permits and mechanical/gas permits. For a complete list of construction permit and plans review fees, consult the fire marshal fee schedule.
| Mechanical/Gas Permit Application (PDF) |
Fire Prevention Code Permits
Fire Prevention Code Permits (FPCP), also known as operational permits, allow the permit applicant to conduct an operation or business regulated by the Fire Prevention Code. Furthermore, the Fairfax County Fire Marshal requires notification prior to activities involving the handling, storage, or use of substances, materials, or devices regulated by the Fire Prevention Code; conducting processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; and establishing a place of assembly. Please refer to the following publication for a complete list of FPCP requirements: Fire Prevention Code Permit Requirements & Fees (PDF)
You may use the above "Quick Links" to jump directly to any permit requirement category.
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FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT & SYSTEMS
Construction permits are required to install, modify, or rehabilitate fire protection equipment and systems. Application for permits shall be made to the Office of the Fire Marshal and permits shall be obtained prior to the commencement of any installation, modification, or rehabilitation of fire protection equipment and systems, except that applications for emergency equipment replacement shall be submitted by the end of the first working day that follows the day such emergency equipment replacement commences.
Fire Protection Equipment Installations & Modifications: Permit Requirements (Letter to Community & Industry)
Elimination of Plumbing/Gas Permit for Sprinkler System Installations/Modifications (Announcement)
Acceptance Testing Scheduling Guidelines
Permits are required for the following equipment and system types:
Equipment or System Type |
Related Code Sections |
Fire Marshal FPD Fire Permit Type |
DPWES Permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Alarm & Detection Systems | USBC 108.2, 907; FPC 108.5.3 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Fire Alarm Annunciator/Control Panel Replacement | USBC 108.2, 907; FPC 108.5.3 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Fire Protection Monitoring/Supervisory Systems | USBC 108.2, 907.14; FPC 108.5.3 | F FIRE ALARM - F CENS | Low Voltage |
| Smoke Control Systems | USBC 108.2, 909 | F FIRE ALARM - F SMKE | Low Voltage |
| Fire & Smoke Dampers, Fire Alarm Controlled | USBC 108.2, 716.2; FPC 108.5.3 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Clean-Agent | USBC 108.2, 904.10; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Multiple |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Foam | USBC 108.2, 904.7; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Wet-Chemical | USBC 108.2, 904.5; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Dry-Chemical | USBC 108.2, 904.6; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Carbon Dioxide | USBC 108.2, 904.8; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Halon | USBC 108.2, 904.9; FPC 108.5.1 | F FIRE ALARM - F ALRM | Low Voltage |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Hood System | USBC 108.2, 904.11; FPC 108.5.1 | F RANGE HOOD | Mechanical |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Paint Booth | USBC 108.2; FPC 108.5.1, 1504.4 | F RANGE HOOD | Mechanical |
| Automatic Fire Extinguishing System - Powder Coating | USBC 108.2; FPC 108.5.1, 1506.4 | F RANGE HOOD | Mechanical |
| Standpipe Systems | USBC 108, 905; FPC 108.5.11 | F COMMERCIAL | - |
| Fire Pumps & Related Equipment, Commercial | USBC 108, 903.3.5; FPC 108.5.4 | F COMMERCIAL - F PUMP | - |
| Fire Pumps & Related Equipment, Residential | USBC 108, 903.3.5; FPC 108.5.4 | F RESIDENTIAL - F PUMP | - |
| Fire Service Line for Free-Standing FDC | USBC 108, 912; FPC 108.5.1 | F UNDERGROUND - F FDC | - |
| Fire Service Line for Fire Protection Water Supply | USBC 108, 903.3.5; FPC 108.5.4 | F UNDERGROUND - F LINE | - |
| Automatic Sprinkler Systems, Limited Area | USBC 108, 903.3.5.1.1; FPC 108.5.1 | F LIMITED AREA | - |
| Automatic Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 13 | USBC 108, 903.3.1.1; FPC 108.5.1 | F COMMERCIAL - F 13 | - |
| Automatic Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 13R | USBC 108, 903.3.1.2; FPC 108.5.1 | F RESIDENTIAL - F 13R | - |
| Automatic Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 13D | USBC 108, 903.3.1.3; FPC 108.5.1 | F RESIDENTIAL - F 13D | - |
For assistance or more information about fire protection equipment and systems contact the Fire Protection Systems Branch at 703-246-4821.
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DOOR CONTROL SYSTEMS & LOCKS
Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to approval of the Fire Marshal.
Acceptance Testing Scheduling Guidelines
A construction permit is required to install wiring and equipment that is a component of the following types of door control or special locking arrangements:
Door Control or Special Lock Type |
Related Code Sections |
Fire Marshal FPD Fire Permit Type |
DPWES Permit Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic-Closing Fire Doors, FPS Activated | USBC 108.2, 715.4.7, 907.10 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
| Access-Controlled Egress Doors | USBC 108.2, 1008.1.3.4; FPC 1028.2 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
| Delayed Egress Locks | USBC 108.2, 1008.1.8.6; FPC 1028.2 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
| Special Locking Arrangements-Clinical Settings | USBC 108.2, 407.8; FPC 1028.2 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
| Locking Arrangements in Correctional Facilities | USBC 108.2, 1008.1.8.8; FPC 1028.2 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
| Stairway Door Control Systems | USBC 108.2, 403.12, 1008.1.8.7 | F FIRE ALARM - F-LOCK | Low Voltage |
For assistance or more information about door control systems and special locks contact the Fire Protection Systems Branch at 703-246-4821.
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FIRE LANES & FIRE HYDRANTS
A construction permit is required to establish fire lanes.
Installation Type |
Related Code Sections |
Fire Marshal FPD Fire Permit Type |
DPWES Permit Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Lanes & Fire Apparatus Access Roads | USBC 110.4, FPC 503.1, PFM 9-0202.2J | F FIRE LANE | - |
| Private Fire Hydrants & Yard Hydrants | FPC 108.5.9; PFM 9-0103 | F UNDERGROUND - F LINE | - |
Fire Lane and Fire Hydrant Regulations & Requirements - Read More Information ...
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ASSEMBLY & EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required to operate an assembly or educational occupancy having an occupant load of 50 or greater. This requirement does not apply to small assembly areas/rooms where the maximum capacity is 49 persons or fewer; these small areas/rooms are considered accessory to the main use of the building. In addition to obtaining and maintaining an FPCP, owners and operators of assembly and educational occupancies must also comply with other Fire Prevention Code requirements which include the following:
- Fire Safety & Evacuation Planning - Assembly Occupancies
- Fire Safety & Evacuation Planning - Educational Occupancies
- Posting of Occupant Load in Assembly Occupancies
- Permit Required - Indoor Pyrotechnics Displays
- Permit Required - Open Flame Decorative Devices
- Permit Required - Liquefied Petroleum Gas Storage, Use and Handling Inside, Any Amount
For assistance or more information about assembly/educational occupancies and the above-listed code requirements contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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BUILDING SERVICES & SYSTEMS
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required to maintain and operate the following building services and systems:
- Refrigeration Equipment
- Stationary Lead Acid Battery Systems with 51+ Gallon Capacity
- Commercial Kitchen Operations (Exception: Assembly & Educational Occupancies)
For assistance or more information about FPCP requirements for building services and systems contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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HAZARDOUS FACILITIES/PROCESSES
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required to conduct processes or establish facilities regulated by chapters 11 through 25 of the Fire Prevention Code which produce conditions hazardous to life or property. The following categories of hazardous facilities/processes require an FPCP. You may refer to the publication Fire Prevention Code Permits & Filing Fee Requirements (PDF) for a complete list of FPCP requirements.
- Waste Handling
- Aviation Facilities & Rooftop Heliports
- Dry Cleaning Plant
- Combustible Dust-Producing
- Floor Refinishing/Surfacing
- Flammable/Combustible Spray Finishing
- Application of Combustible Powders
- Fumigation & Thermal Insecticide Fogging Inside Any Structure
- Repair Garages & Service Stations
- Industrial Ovens/Furnaces
- Lumber Yards & Woodworking
- High-Piled/High-Rack Combustible Storage Inside
- Combustible Storage Inside/Upon Any Premises
For assistance or more information about FPCP requirements for hazardous facilities and processes regulated by the Fire Prevention Code contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: HANDLING, STORAGE & USE
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the handling, storage, and use of certain hazardous materials regulated by chapters 28 through 44 of the Fire Prevention Code. You may refer to the publication listed below for a complete list of FPCP requirements for the handling, storage, and use of hazardous materials.
For assistance or more information about the handling, storage, and use of hazardous materials contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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HOT WORK & WELDING
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the following hot work and welding operations:
Type of Hot Work or Welding |
Fire Prevention Code Sections |
Fire Marshal Permit Type & Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Small-Scale Hot Work (Example: Soldering/Brazing with an Open Flame) | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD1, $125 |
| Fixed-Site Hot Work (Example: Welding Booth) | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD2, $125 |
| Cutting & Welding, All Locations | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD3, $125 |
| Open-Flame Roofing Operation (Each Site - 90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD5, $125 |
| Paint Removal with Torch/Open Flame (Each Site - 30-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD6, $65 |
| Public Exhibitions/Demonstrations (Each Exhibitor/Demonstration - 10-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 2601 | FPCP - F3WLD4, $65 |
For assistance or more information about the Fire Prevention Code requirements for hot work and welding contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the handling, storage, and use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and the installation or modification of LPG systems as follows:
Liquefied Petroleum Gas |
Related Code Sections |
Fire Marshal Permit Type & Fee |
DPWES Permit Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage, Use & Handling Inside Any Structure - Any Amount | FPC 108.1.1, 3801 | FPCP - F3LP1 - $125 | None |
| Dispensing & Cylinder Refill Location | FPC 108.1.1, 3801 | FPCP - F3LP3 - $125 | None |
| Retail Cylinder Exchange Location | FPC 108.1.1, 3801 | FPCP - F3LP4 - $125 | None |
| Storage & Use Outside, Portable Cylinders - Per Event (Cylinders/Tanks 1 to 40 lbs) |
FPC 108.1.1, 3801 | FPCP - F3LP6 - $65 | None |
| Storage & Use Outside, Temporary/Transient Stationary Installation (Cylinder/Tank Larger than 40 lbs) |
FPC 108.1.1, 3801 | FPCP - F3LP5 - $125 | None |
Storage & Use Outside, Permanent Stationary Installation - Any Amount |
USBC 108.2; FPC 108.5.8, 3801 |
FPCP - F3LP2 - $125 |
Mechanical Electrical Plumbing |
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COMBUSTIBLE & FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS
Under the provisions of Title 36, Chapter 6 of the Code of Virginia, underground storage tank installation, removal, closure, and testing shall be performed in accordance with the Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). Section 415.1.1 of the USBC requires that the installation, upgrade, or closure of any underground storage tank containing an accumulation of regulated substances shall be in accordance with underground storage tank regulations adopted by the Virginia State Water Control Board. Aboveground storage tank installations shall comply with Section 415.1.1 of the USBC and Section 3404 of the Fire Prevention Code.
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the installation, removal, closure, and abandonment of combustible and flammable liquid storage tanks. In addition, an FPCP is required for the handling, storage, and use of combustible and flammable liquids in the amounts and locations listed below.
Combustible/Flammable Liquids Product Lines, Tanks, Storage & Handling |
Fire Prevention Code Sections |
Fire Marshal Permit Type & Fee |
|---|---|---|
Combustible Liquids, Class II or IIIA: Store, Use, or Handle 26+ Gallons inside a
Building and/or 61+ Gallons Outside |
FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 |
FPCP - F3CLQ1, $125 |
| Flammable Liquids, Class I: Store, Use, or Handle 6+ Gallons inside a Building
or 11+ Gallons Outside (Exceptions: 1. Storage or use in the fuel tank of a motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat, mobile power plant, or mobile heating plant, unless such storage, in the opinion of the fire official, would cause an unsafe condition; 2. Storage or use of paints, oils, varnishes, or similar flammable mixture when such liquids are stored for maintenance, painting, or similar purposes of a period of not more than 30 days.) |
FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 |
FPCP - F3F_Q1, $125 |
| Flammable/Combustible Liquids: Bulk Storage Facility - 100,000+ Gallons | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3TK05, $500 |
| Flammable/Combustible Liquids: Manufacture, Process, Blend, or Refine | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3FCLQ, $250 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Above-ground Storage Only | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3TK03, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Above-ground Storage w/ Dispensing Equipment | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3TK04, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Above-ground Removal - Commercial (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK11, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Alter or Relocate an Existing Tank (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK14, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Installation, Above/Below Ground (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK12, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Install Product Lines/Dispensing Equipment | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK13, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Placed Temporarily Out-of-Service | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK06, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Underground Abandonment (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK08, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Underground Removal, Commercial (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK09, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Underground Removal, Residential (90-Day Permit) | FPC 108.1.1, 108.5.5 | FPCP - F3TK10, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Underground Storage Only | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3TK01, $125 |
| Tank, Flammable/Combustible Liquid: Underground Storage w/ Dispensing Equipment | FPC 108.1.1, 3401.4 | FPCP - F3TK02, $125 |
For assistance or more information about combustible and flammable liquids, product lines, and storage tanks contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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OPEN BURNING & OPEN FLAME
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the following circumstances or situations involving open burning or open flame:
- Open Burning - Bonfires - Ceremonial Fires with a Total Fuel Area Greater than 3 Feet in Diameter and 2 Feet in Height
- Open Burning - Controlled Burning - Land-Clearing or Silvicultural Fires ** Controlled Burning is Prohibited Until October 1, 2009 **
- Open-Flame Decorative Devices - Assembly & Educational Occupancies, Public Gatherings & Ceremonies, and Theatrical Performances
- Open Flame - Paint Removal with a Torch
For assistance or more information about open burning or open flame regulations contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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SPECIAL AMUSEMENT BUILDINGS
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required to operate any special amusement building or occupancy. A special amusement building is defined by the Fire Prevention Code as a building that is temporary, permanent or mobile that contains a device or system that conveys passengers or provides a walkway along, around, or over a course in any direction as a form of amusement arranged so that the egress path is not readily apparent due to visual or audio distractions or an intentionally confounded egress path, or is not readily available because of the mode of conveyance through the building or structure. Generally, to erect or construct a special amusement building, a building permit followed by a certificate of occupancy is required. Therefore, an FPCP to operate a special amusement building will only be issued after the special amusement building or occupancy is approved by the Building Official.
For assistance or more information about operating a special amusement building or occupancy contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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CARNIVALS, CIRCUSES, FAIRS, FESTIVALS & OUTDOOR PUBLIC ASSEMBLAGES
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required to establish and operate carnivals, circuses, fairs, festivals, and outdoor public assemblages. In addition to obtaining and maintaining an FPCP, operators of carnivals, circuses, fairs, festivals, or outdoor public assemblages must also comply with other Fire Prevention Code requirements which are outlined in the following publication:
- Guideline - Carnivals, Circuses, Fairs, Festivals & Outdoor Public Assemblages (PDF)
- FPCP Application - Carnivals, Circuses, Fairs, Festivals & Outdoor Public Assemblages (PDF)
For assistance or more information about Fire Prevention Code requirements relating to carnivals, circuses, fairs, festivals, or outdoor public assemblages contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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TEMPORARY TENTS
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the erection, operation, and maintenance of tents and membrane structures having an area in excess of 900 square feet used for any purpose. Temporary tents and air-supported, air-inflated, or tensioned membrane structures shall not be erected for a period of more than 180 days within a 12-month period on a single premises. Refer to the publication listed below for detailed information about the Fire Prevention Code requirements for temporary tents and membrane structures.
For assistance or more information about Fire Prevention Code requirements relating to temporary tents contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
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VEHICLE DISPLAYS INSIDE A BUILDING
When displayed inside a building, gas- and liquid-fueled motor vehicles, such as automobiles, boats, motorcycles, and motor homes, create a unique fire concern because of the types and amounts of fuel these vehicles can contain. Therefore, any person, firm, or corporation must first obtain a Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) before displaying any gas- or liquid-fueled vehicle inside any structure not approved for such a purpose. Refer to the publication listed below for detailed information about the Fire Prevention Code requirements for vehicle displays inside a building.
or assistance or more information about Fire Prevention Code requirements relating to vehicle displays inside a building contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
FIREWORKS & PYROTECHNICS
A Fire Prevention Code Permit (FPCP) is required for the following circumstances or situations involving fireworks and pyrotechnics:
- Wholesale Fireworks
- Retail Sales of Permissible Fireworks
- Outdoor Fireworks Displays
- Indoor Pyrotechnics Displays
For assistance or more information about fireworks and indoor pyrotechnics displays contact the Fire Inspections Branch at 703-246-4849.
BLASTING & EXPLOSIVES
Permits and inspections relating to blasting and the handling, use, and transportation of any quantity of explosives or explosive materials (other than fireworks) is handled by the Hazardous Materials Technical Support Branch. Their number is 703-246-4386.
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Office of the Fire Marshal
Permit Requirements 10700 Page Avenue Fairfax, Virginia 22030 Telephone: 703-246-4800 Fax: 703-691-0209 |
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