Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, Texas

Quick Answer: Fort Worth requires alarm permits for monitored fire alarm systems under Chapter 12 of the Fort Worth City Code. Commercial permits cost $100/year and residential permits cost $50/year. Contractors must hold TDI fire alarm licensing, and all commercial installations require fire code compliance through the Bureau of Fire Prevention.

Do You Need a Fire Alarm Permit in Fort Worth?

Under Chapter 12 of the Fort Worth City Code, a valid alarm permit is required if you operate or cause to operate an alarm system and desire to receive emergency response. This applies to monitored fire alarm systems within the Fort Worth city limits.

When a Permit IS Required

• Monitored fire alarm systems in commercial buildings
• Monitored fire alarm systems in residential properties
• Multi-family residential fire alarm systems
• Any alarm system connected to central monitoring that dispatches fire department

Exemptions

• Federal and state governmental entities: No permit required
• City and county political subdivisions: Permit required but no fees charged
• Low-income residential (one-family dwellings only): Permit required but fee waived with proof of income

Permit Fees

Permit Type	Annual Fee	Notes
Residential Permit	$50.00	One-family and two-family dwellings
Commercial Permit	$100.00	All commercial properties
Low-Income Residential	$0.00	Must provide proof of income

Permits are valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

State Licensing (TDI)

Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) State Fire Marshal Office regulates fire alarm contractors statewide. Required licenses include:

Individual Licenses

• Residential Fire Alarm Technician (RFA): For one- and two-family dwellings
• Fire Alarm Technician (FAL): For commercial and complex fire alarm systems
• Fire Alarm Planning Superintendent (APS): Required for plan design and stamping
• Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent (RAS): For residential system supervision

Company Registration

Companies installing fire alarm systems must hold a Certificate of Registration from the State Fire Marshal Office. Monitoring stations must be registered separately.

For complete licensing details, see our Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Fire Code Compliance

Bureau of Fire Prevention

The Fort Worth Bureau of Fire Prevention (Fire Marshal Office) oversees fire code compliance. All commercial fire alarm installations must comply with fire code requirements.

Fire Plan Requirements

For new installations, building modifications, and system changes:

• Fire plan required for permit approval
• Plans must comply with state and local fire code
• Licensed APS or Texas PE required for plan stamping
• Fire alarm professionals coordinate with fire marshal for approval

Inspection Requirements

Texas requires regular fire alarm inspections per NFPA 72:

• Most commercial properties: Annual inspections required
• Schools, hospitals, high-rises: More frequent inspection schedules may apply
• Facilities with 300+ occupants: Stricter requirements

NFPA 72 Inspection Components

A comprehensive NFPA 72 inspection includes:

• All smoke and heat detectors
• Manual pull stations
• Notification appliances (horns and strobes)
• Control panel functions
• Battery backup systems
• Communication equipment

Documentation Requirements

• Inspection reports must be submitted to property owners
• Records must be maintained for at least three years
• Texas-licensed companies must maintain inspection records
• Current inspection certificates required to avoid violations

Application Process

Step 1: Obtain State Licensing

Ensure your company holds TDI registration and technicians hold appropriate fire alarm licenses.

Step 2: Submit Permit Application

Three ways to apply for or renew alarm permits:

• In Person: City of Fort Worth Planning and Development Department, 1000 Throckmorton
• By Mail: Download application and mail with payment
• Online: Use the Fort Worth Accela Citizen Access portal

Step 3: Provide Required Information

Applications require:

• Contact name, address, and telephone number
• Individual person listed as contact (required for business accounts)
• Payment (check, money order payable to City of Fort Worth, or major credit cards)

Step 4: Fire Plan Review (New Installations)

For new commercial installations:

• Submit fire plan to Bureau of Fire Prevention
• Coordinate with fire marshal on specifications
• Obtain approval before installation

Step 5: Installation and Inspection

After permit approval:

• Install system per approved plans
• Schedule inspection with fire marshal
• Obtain certification for Certificate of Occupancy (new construction)

False Alarm Program

Fort Worth uses CryWolf Services for their False Alarm Reduction Program.

Online Services Available

• Register or renew alarm systems online
• Pay fees electronically
• Update account information
• View false alarm incidents

Website: crywolfservices.com/fortworthtx

Permit Renewal Requirements

Important: A permit will not be renewed if the applicant has past due outstanding service fees at the alarm site or at another alarm site for which they are the permit holder.

The Planning and Development department sends reminder notices approximately one month before permit expiration, but permit holders are responsible for ensuring timely renewal.

Contact Information

Fort Worth Planning and Development Department
1000 Throckmorton
Fort Worth, TX

Fort Worth Bureau of Fire Prevention (Fire Marshal)
fortworthtexas.gov/departments/fire/services/bureau

False Alarm Reduction Program
crywolfservices.com/fortworthtx

Online Permit Portal
Fort Worth Accela Citizen Access

Texas TDI State Fire Marshal
Phone: 512-676-6800 (press 1)
Email: FMLicensing@tdi.texas.gov

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Plan ahead for renewals: Set calendar reminders 45 days before permit expiration
• Keep fees current: Outstanding service fees block permit renewal
• Coordinate early: Work with the fire marshal during design phase, not after
• Maintain documentation: Keep three years of inspection records as required
• Use online systems: CryWolf and Accela make management easier
• Know your occupancy: High-occupancy buildings have stricter requirements
• Get state licensing first: TDI registration is required before local permits

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when fire alarm projects hit permits in Fort Worth before they reach bid boards?

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Related Permit Guides

• Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, Texas
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas

Official Resources

• Fort Worth Alarm Permits
• Fort Worth Bureau of Fire Prevention
• Fort Worth City Code Chapter 12
• Texas TDI Fire Alarm Licensing