Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in El Paso, Texas

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Fire Alarm Installation in El Paso?

Yes, permits are required for fire alarm system installation in El Paso, Texas. The Fire Marshal's Office oversees all fire alarm permits and requires plan review before installation can begin. Additionally, all fire alarm contractors must hold a valid Texas State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) license, and technicians must meet NICET or ESA certification requirements.

El Paso Fire Alarm Permitting Structure

Fire alarm permitting in El Paso involves multiple authorities depending on your project location:

City of El Paso Fire Department

The City of El Paso has adopted the International Fire Code (IFC) 2021 Edition as its fire prevention code. For projects within city limits, the City Fire Marshal's Office handles fire alarm permits and inspections.

El Paso County Emergency Services District #1

For projects in unincorporated areas or ESD #1 jurisdiction, the Fire Marshal's Office requires:

• Plan Review Intake: As of January 1, 2024, an in-person meeting/appointment is required for plan review (contact inspecectionrequest@epcesd1.com)
• Separate Fire Protection Permit: Fire alarm contractors must obtain their own permit when sprinkler monitoring is involved
• IFC 2021 Compliance: All plans must reference and comply with the International Fire Code 2021

Texas State Fire Marshal Licensing (Required)

Fire alarm work in Texas is heavily regulated by the Texas State Fire Marshal's Office under the Texas Department of Insurance. This licensing is mandatory regardless of permit status.

Company License Requirements

Fire alarm companies must hold a valid SFMO license to operate in Texas. The company must designate a Planning Superintendent who meets these requirements:

• NICET Level III: Pass the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Level III Fire Alarm Systems test, OR
• ESA Level III: Hold current Electronic Security Association Level III Fire Alarm Designer certification, OR
• Texas PE: Be a licensed Texas Professional Engineer
• Statutes & Rules Test: Pass the SFMO Fire Alarm Statutes and Rules examination

Technician License Requirements

Individual fire alarm technicians must hold SFMO registration. The technical exam may be waived with:

• Current ESA Level II Fire Alarm Technician certification
• Passing NICET Level II Fire Alarm Systems test

Background Requirements

All applicants must complete fingerprint background checks. Effective January 9, 2026, expired licenses require new fingerprint submission before renewal or reinstatement.

El Paso Permit Application Process

Step 1: Plan Submission

The Fire Marshal's Division cannot issue a permit prior to plan review. Plans must include:

• Complete fire alarm system design per NFPA 72
• Device locations and spacing calculations
• Wiring diagrams and riser drawings
• Battery calculations
• Reference to IFC 2021 compliance

Step 2: Plan Review

Submit plans for review by the Fire Marshal's Office. For ESD #1 projects, schedule an in-person intake meeting.

Step 3: Permit Issuance

Once plans are approved, the permit is issued. Requirements include:

• Evidence of proper insurance coverage
• Valid SFMO company license
• Payment of permit fees

Step 4: Installation

Proceed with installation per approved plans. Keep permit documents on-site.

Step 5: Inspection

Contact the Fire Marshal's Office when installation is complete or ready for visual inspection. Inspections are conducted within two business days (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM).

Step 6: Deficiency Correction

If deficiencies are found during inspection:

• Issues are noted on the back of the permit document
• Re-inspection fee applies
• Submit for re-inspection after corrections

NFPA 72 Compliance Requirements

El Paso enforces NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, for all commercial fire alarm systems. Key requirements include:

Installation Standards

• Detector spacing and placement per NFPA 72
• Notification appliance coverage calculations
• Proper separation of fire alarm circuits
• Pathway survivability requirements

Annual Testing Requirements

Commercial fire alarm systems connected to a monitoring station require annual testing of:

• All alarm functions and detection devices
• Fuses and power supplies
• System interfaces
• Lamps and LEDs
• Transponders and communication paths

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to maintain NFPA 72 compliance can result in:

• Revocation of certificate of occupancy
• Insurance policy cancellation
• Denial of claims
• Civil and criminal liability exposure

Special Requirements

Carbon Monoxide Detection (Schools)

Per El Paso's Fire Prevention Code, CO alarm signals in schools must:

• Transmit automatically through the Fire Alarm Control Panel
• Report to an on-site staffed location
• Initiate supervisory signal to Central Station monitoring
• Annunciate local audible alarm with CO temporal code in room of origin

Sprinkler Monitoring

When fire alarm systems monitor fire sprinkler systems, contractors must obtain a separate fire protection system permit.

Fees and Timeline

SFMO Licensing Fees

• Company License: Per TDI fee schedule
• Individual Registration: Per TDI fee schedule
• PSI Examination: Testing fees apply

El Paso Permit Fees

Permit fees are established by the applicable governing authority and must be paid prior to permit issuance.

Re-Inspection Fees

Failed inspections require payment of re-inspection fees before scheduling follow-up inspection.

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Schedule early: Plan review can take time—submit plans well before installation dates
• Verify jurisdiction: Confirm whether your project falls under City of El Paso or ESD #1 before applying
• Maintain NICET certification: Keep certifications current to avoid project delays
• Document everything: Keep records of all inspections, tests, and maintenance for NFPA 72 compliance
• Coordinate with GC: Fire alarm inspections must pass before certificate of occupancy is issued

Contact Information

City of El Paso Fire Department

• Phone: (915) 212-0104
• Website: elpasotexas.gov

El Paso County ESD #1

• Email: inspecectionrequest@epcesd1.com
• Website: epcesd1.com

Related Resources

For comprehensive licensing information, see our guide to Texas Low Voltage License Requirements.

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