Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Chesapeake, Virginia
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Complete guide to fire alarm permit requirements in Chesapeake, VA. Permits required via eBuild. FAS contractor license required.
Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Chesapeake, Virginia
Quick Answer: Chesapeake requires a permit for the installation of fire alarm systems. Applications are submitted electronically via eBuild/Accela or in person at the Community Risk Reduction Division at 304 Albemarle Drive. Contractors must hold a Virginia DPOR Fire Alarm Systems (FAS) contractor license.
When Permits Are Required vs. Exempt
Permit Required
- New fire alarm system installations
- Alterations or additions to existing fire alarm systems
- Commercial fire alarm installations
- Multi-family residential buildings
- Fire alarm panel replacements
- Adding devices to existing systems
Permit Exempt
- Single-family residential smoke detectors (battery or AC powered)
- Portable fire extinguishers
- Like-for-like device replacements (same manufacturer/model)
- Annual testing and maintenance
Permit Fees
Chesapeake calculates fire alarm permit fees based on system value:
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base fee (first $1,000 value) | $40.00 |
| Each additional $1,000 value | $6.00 |
| Plan Review Fee | Required (varies) |
| State Levy | 2% of total fee |
| Late fee (work without permit) | $75.00 |
Application Process
Online Submission (Preferred)
- Visit Chesapeake eBuild Portal
- Create account or log in to Accela/eBuild
- Submit fire alarm plans electronically
- Pay plan review fee online
- Await review and approval
- Obtain permit before beginning work
Paper Submission
- Download Fire Permit Application from city website
- Complete application with system details
- Specify if system is manual or automatic
- Describe type and purpose of system
- Submit plans directly to CRR office
Where to Apply
Community Risk Reduction Division/Fire Marshal Office
304 Albemarle Drive
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Phone: 757-382-6566
Email: Fire@cityofchesapeake.net
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Virginia DPOR Contractor Licensing
Fire alarm installation requires a Virginia DPOR contractor license with Fire Alarm Systems (FAS) specialty classification.
FAS License Requirements
| License Class | Contract Limit | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Class A FAS | Unlimited | 5 years |
| Class B FAS | $120,000 | 3 years |
| Class C FAS | $10,000 | 2 years |
For complete Virginia licensing requirements, see our Virginia Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.
Inspection Process
Scheduling Inspections
- Call 382-CITY (382-2489) to schedule
- Or use eBuild website to request inspection
- Allow at least two business days for scheduling
- Fire permit number required when requesting inspection
Inspection Requirements
- Notify Fire Code Official when installation reaches pertinent stage
- Inspections performed by Community Risk Reduction Division
- Final system acceptance testing required for permit approval
- Deputy Fire Marshal conducts fire inspection for Certificate of Occupancy
Fees and Timeline
| Service | Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Permit | $40 + $6 per $1,000 | 1-2 weeks review |
| Plan Review | Varies by scope | Included in permit |
| Inspection | Included | 2+ business days notice |
| DPOR FAS License | $180-$260 | 2-4 weeks |
Code Requirements
All installations must comply with:
- Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (SFPC)
- NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
- NEC Article 760: Fire Alarm Systems
- Chesapeake Local Amendments to 2021 Virginia SFPC
Residential Smoke Detector Requirements
Chesapeake Fire Prevention requires smoke detectors in residential occupancies per SFPC Section 907.2.11:
Required Locations
- In every sleeping room
- In every room in the path of egress from sleeping areas
- On each story including basements
- Not required in crawl spaces or uninhabitable attics
Installation Standards
- May be battery operated or AC powered
- Installation shall not require new wiring per Virginia Code 15.2-922
- Must comply with Uniform Statewide Building Code
Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors
- Submit plans early: Allow adequate review time before project deadlines
- Use eBuild: Electronic submissions are preferred and often faster
- Get permit first: $75 late fee applies if work begins without permit
- Have permit number ready: Required when scheduling inspections
- Coordinate with building permit: Fire approval needed for Certificate of Occupancy
Stay Ahead of Project Opportunities
Want to know when commercial buildouts and fire alarm upgrades hit permits in Chesapeake before they reach bid boards?
LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Virginia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.
Related Permit Guides
- Virginia Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
- Chesapeake Security Camera Permit Requirements
- Norfolk Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
- Virginia Beach Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
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