Unless the Building or Fire Official grants approval to take a fire protection system out of service, fire protection systems shall be maintained and operable prior to building demolition. Before any fire protection system is taken out of service, apply for a Fire Code Modification. The basis for a code modification could include:
- To address any life safety concerns of a vacant building awaiting the demolition process
- When fire protection systems are no longer able to be maintained for a building being demolished
- In cases where the demolition process takes longer than a month after demolition permit issuance
The following items outline the minimum safety provisions when any fire protection system is out of service proceeding the demolition of a building. A site and structure assessment may determine the need for additional precautions to ensure site and personnel safety.
- Submit Rough Grading permit application to establish the timetable for the building demolition
- Maintain liability insurance for the building or structure for the time prior to demolition
- The liability insurance company shall be notified of any fire protection system that is out of service
- Site security shall be maintained by any of the methods or combination thereof:
- The property fenced and the entrances secured
- Roving security patrols and security barriers
- Security alarms and cameras in lieu of the physical security presence
- Rapid entry boxes shall be maintained
- Signage and tags indicating all out of service fire protection systems
- The building shall be cleared of flammable and combustible materials
- Propane and diesel fuel shall be removed from generators
- Electric, fuel gases, and water service shall be disconnected
- Maintain standpipes and fire department connections until start of the demolition
Questions related to fire protection systems removal prior to building demolition should be directed to the Fire Prevention Technical Services Battalion Chief at Fire.Prevention@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-246-4753.