Most often, a code modification is a request to modify a code provision where your project's design or construction does not meet the letter of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code, Chapter 62 of the Code of Fairfax County, or fire protection related provisions of the Public Facilities Manual. "Code mod" requests must propose changes to a code provision that provide an equivalent level of fire and life safety. The county cannot outright waive code provisions. The Fire Code Modification record is required by the Office of the Fire marshal when the above provision is desired.
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This information is the most common for how to obtain the necessary approval for your project and is not representative of all the conditions you may encounter.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
Property owners or their duly authorized agents may submit fire code modifications.
PLAN AHEAD
Before submitting your application, ensure you are aware of all applicable regulations and conditions that could affect your project, to avoid surprises during the review process. For the best references, see the Codes and Standards Web page.
HOW DO I SUBMIT MY RECORD?
PLUS Application
Apply for your Fire Code Modification record online in PLUS under the Fire tab. If you are a first-time user, you must first register for an account.
Instructional Video for PLUS
- Reference the parent or related building permit number if the proposed scope of work for the same project and address:
- relates to a submitted Fire record.
Upon submission, the record number provided will start with FCDMOD.
Requirements
Document requirements will vary based on answers provided during the application process.
- Submittal Package - Required for all submissions.
Submission
- Provide design deficiency and proposed solution.
- Projects located in the towns of Clifton, Herndon, or Vienna require separate approvals from the respective towns.
What's Next?
To get a step-by-step guide on PLUS statuses and what they mean, see our What is My PLUS Status? infographic.
Below are the necessary steps to follow after your application is accepted in PLUS.
County Review
Staff in Revenue & Records will review your package for completeness and compliance with the fire code and county ordinances. You will be notified of any deficiencies. Package corrections and additional supporting documents may be required.
The Chief Engineer of Engineering Plans Review, the Battalion Chief of the Fire Prevention Technical Services Section, and/or the Fire Official is responsible for verifying that the code provision submitted complies with the Statewide Fire Prevention Code, Code of Fairfax County, and/or Public Facilities Manual.
Decision
Once the review is complete, a decision will be communicated. If approved, your Decision Letter will be available to download from PLUS.
Additional Resources
Need More Assistance?
For questions or additional information, please contact staff:
Permit Application Process and Fees >> Call the Revenue & Records Branch at 703-246-4803, TTY 711 or email Fire.revenuepermits@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Plan Review >> Call the Engineering Plans Review Branch at 703-246-4806, TTY 711 or email Fire.engplansreview@fairfaxcounty.gov.