Fire Permits

The Bureau issues, inspects and maintains all Fire permits. The California Fire Code defines permits as:

General. A permit constitutes permission to maintain, store, use or handle materials, or to conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property, or to install equipment used in connection with such activities. Such permission shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of this code. Such permit shall not take the place of any license required by law.

Expiration. A permit shall continue until revoked or for such a period of time as designated therein at the time of issuance. Permits shall not be transferable and any change in use, occupancy, operation or ownership shall require a new permit.

Compliance. Permit applicants and the applicants' agents and employees shall carry out the proposed activity in compliance with this code and other laws or regulations applicable thereto, whether specified or not, and in complete accordance with approved plans and specifications. Permits which purport to sanction a violation of this code or any applicable law or regulation shall be void and approvals of plans and specifications in the issuance of such permits shall likewise be void.

Application for Permit. Applications for permits shall be made to the bureau of fire prevention in such form and detail as prescribed by the bureau. Applications for permits shall be accompanied by such plans as required by the bureau.

Inspection Required. Before a permit is issued, the chief shall inspect and approve the receptacles, vehicles, buildings, devices, premises, storage spaces or areas to be used. In instances where laws or regulations are enforceable by departments other than the fire department, joint approval shall be obtained from all departments concerned.

Retention of Permits. Permits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be posted in a conspicuous location on the premises or shall be kept on the premises in a location designated by the chief. Permits shall be subject to inspection at all times by an officer of the fire or police department or other persons authorized by the chief.

Revocation of Permits

 The chief is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit when it is determined after a hearing by the chief that:

1. The permit has been used by a person other than the person to whom the permit was issued,

2. The permit has been used for a location other than that for which it was issued,

3. Any of the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit have been violated,

4. The permit failed, refused or neglected to comply with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the provisions of this code within the time provided therein,

5. There has been a false statement or misrepresentation as to a material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or application was based, or

6. The permit was issued in error or in violation of an ordinance, regulation or this code.

Permit Required. A permit shall be obtained from the bureau of fire prevention prior to engaging in the activities, operations, practices or functions listed in the fire code.