Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Duluth, Minnesota

Installing fire alarm systems in Duluth requires permits from the Duluth Fire Department and proper Minnesota contractor licensing. Since January 2020, all new and upgraded fire alarm systems must be permitted, reviewed, and inspected. This guide covers permit requirements, plan review, and inspection processes.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm permits are required in Duluth. Starting January 6, 2020, the Duluth Fire Department requires permits for all new and upgraded fire alarm systems. Systems must comply with NFPA 72 standards, and contractors must be licensed by the State of Minnesota. Contact the Life Safety Division at 218-730-4380.

When Is a Fire Alarm Permit Required?

Duluth requires permits for:

• New fire alarm system installations
• Extensions to existing systems
• Alterations of existing fire protection systems
• Upgrades to fire alarm panels or components

No person shall install, extend, or alter any fire protection system without first applying for a permit.

How Do I Apply for a Fire Alarm Permit?

1. Submit permit application to Duluth Fire Department
2. Include fire alarm plans for review
3. Await plan review approval (resubmissions billed at $62.50/hour)
4. Keep stamped approved plans on site during project
5. Schedule inspections with 24-48 hours notice
6. Complete final layout inspection and operational test

Contact Duluth Fire Department:
Life Safety Division: 218-730-4380
Email: lifesafety@duluthmn.gov
Fire Systems Plans Examiner: 218-730-5398
Fire Marshal's Office: 218-730-4398

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Duluth permits are granted only to contractors licensed by Minnesota:

• Fire Protection Contractor License: Per Minnesota Statutes Chapter 299M
• Alarm and Communication Contractor License: Operating within scope of license per Minnesota Rules 7512.0400
• Electrical Contractor License: For electrical work within scope
• Power Limited Technician (PLT) License: For individuals performing low-voltage alarm work

For detailed licensing requirements, see our Minnesota Low Voltage License Guide.

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Fee	Timeline
Fire alarm permit	Per fee schedule	Plan review required
Plan review resubmission	$62.50/hour	As needed
Re-inspection fee	Per fee schedule	If not ready/canceled late
Fire Protection Contractor License	$575 initial / $500 renewal	Valid July 1 - June 30

What Is the Plan Review Process?

Duluth Fire Department reviews fire alarm plans to ensure NFPA 72 compliance:

• Submit complete plans with permit application
• Fire Systems Plans Examiner reviews for code compliance
• If denied, specific concerns noted for resubmission
• Resubmission fees may apply ($62.50/hour)
• Approved plans stamped and must remain on site during project

What Are the Inspection Requirements?

Duluth fire alarm inspections include:

• Final layout inspection: Verify installation matches approved plans
• Final operational test: Complete system testing
• Scheduling: 24-48 hours advance notice required
• Re-inspection fees: Apply if not ready or canceled late
• Sequence: Complete before Life Safety inspections by building inspector and Fire Marshal

What Are Annual Maintenance Requirements?

Per Minnesota Fire Code, fire alarm systems require ongoing maintenance:

• Annual inspection and testing required
• Inspection reports must be forwarded to Authority Having Jurisdiction
• Systems must be maintained in operative condition at all times
• Defective systems must be replaced or repaired

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Submit complete plans: Incomplete submissions cause delays and resubmission fees
• Pre-test before inspection: Systems not ready may incur re-inspection fees
• Keep plans on site: Stamped approved plans must be available during project
• 24-48 hour scheduling: Give adequate notice for inspections
• Contact Fire Systems Examiner: Call 218-730-5398 with questions during design phase
• Annual testing contracts: Build maintenance agreements into client relationships

Related Permit Guides for Duluth

• Security Camera Permits in Duluth

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