Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Gresham, Oregon

Installing fire alarm systems in Gresham requires coordination with both the Building Department and Gresham Fire Department (GFD). The city has specific plan submittal requirements and follows the Oregon Fire Code. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits and compliance in Oregon's fourth-largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm installations require permits. Installation, alterations, or modifications to fire alarm systems may only be done under benefit of permit from local building permit services. Permits are also required for replacement of any Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP). Stamped approved drawings must be on-site during all work and inspections.

What Is a Fire Alarm System?

Fire alarm systems requiring permits in Gresham include:

• Conventional and addressable fire alarm panels
• Smoke and heat detectors
• Manual pull stations
• Notification appliances (horns, strobes, speakers)
• Duct smoke detectors
• Fire alarm monitoring connections
• Tamper switches for sprinkler system valves
• Mass notification systems

When Are Permits Required in Gresham?

GFD and Gresham Building Services require permits for:

Permit Required

• New fire alarm system installations
• Replacement of Fire Alarm Control Panels (FACP)
• Adding devices to existing systems
• System alterations or modifications
• Tenant improvement projects affecting fire alarm
• Duct smoke detector installations

May Be Exempt

• Battery replacements
• Minor repairs and maintenance
• Annual testing (no modifications)

Contact GFD Fire Marshal's Office at (503) 618-2355 to confirm requirements.

Oregon Contractor Licensing Requirements

Fire alarm contractors in Gresham must hold multiple credentials.

Required Licenses

• CCB License - Oregon Construction Contractors Board registration
• Limited Energy (LE) Endorsement - Required for low-voltage systems
• OSFM Fire Alarm License - Oregon State Fire Marshal certification
• PE Stamp - Plans must be stamped by Oregon Registered Professional Engineer or Architect (per ORS 671.020) unless exempt under OARS 918-261-0015

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

How to Apply for Fire Alarm Permits in Gresham

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Fire alarm permit applications require:

• PE-stamped fire alarm system drawings (unless exempt)
• Device layout and floor plans
• Riser diagrams showing system architecture
• Equipment cut sheets and specifications
• Battery calculations and voltage drop analysis
• Sequence of operations
• CCB and fire alarm license numbers

Step 2: Electronic Plan Submittal

Gresham currently requires electronic plan submittal and review for fire alarm systems.

City of Gresham Building Services
1333 NW Eastman Parkway
Gresham, OR 97030
Phone: (503) 618-2845
Online: greshamoregon.gov/Building-and-Permits

GFD Fire Marshal's Office
Phone: (503) 618-2355

Step 3: Plan Review

GFD reviews fire alarm plans for compliance with:

• 2022 Oregon Fire Code (OFC)
• NFPA 72 (2019 edition) - National Fire Alarm Code
• Local amendments and requirements

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

After permit approval and installation:

• Rough-in inspection - Wiring, conduit, and device boxes before concealment
• Final inspection - Complete system testing with GFD

Important: Stamped APPROVED drawings must always be on-site when work is performed and available during inspections.

What Are the Fees for Fire Alarm Permits?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Notes
Fire Alarm Permit	$150-$500+	Based on system size
Plan Review	65% of permit fee	Required for all fire alarm
Re-inspection	$75-$100	Per failed inspection

Contact GFD or Building Services for current fee schedules.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Phase	Timeline
Electronic submittal	Same day
Plan review (simple systems)	1-2 weeks
Plan review (complex commercial)	2-3 weeks
Permit issuance	1-2 days after approval
Inspection scheduling	48-72 hours notice

Special Technical Requirements

Tamper Switches

PIV and control valves in fire vaults must have tamper switches tied to building FACP.

Duct Smoke Detectors

If duct detection is required without a fire alarm system on site:

• Must activate visible/audible signaling device in approved location
• Permanent sign required stating "DUCT SMOKE DETECTOR TROUBLE ALARM"
• Strobe shall not be fire alarm style with red body
• Specific appliances made for this application must be used
• Appliance must be approved by GFD prior to installation

Annual Maintenance Requirements

Businesses with fire alarm systems must:

• Have systems tested and maintained annually
• Notify monitoring agencies before testing to prevent false alarms
• Use qualified companies for maintenance
• Forward service checklists to Fire Department for review

Fire Watch Requirements

When fire alarm, detection, or suppression systems are out-of-service and hazards are present:

• Fire code official and/or property owner must initiate fire watch
• Continuous systematic surveillance required
• Qualified individuals must identify hazards and detect early fire signs
• Responsible for raising alarm and notifying fire department

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Electronic submittal required - Gresham requires electronic plan submittal
• PE stamp usually required - Check OARS 918-261-0015 for exemptions
• Keep approved drawings on site - Required during all work and inspections
• Pre-approve special devices - Duct detector appliances need GFD approval first
• Annual service reports - Use GFD's annual fire alarm service report form
• Coordinate monitoring - Notify alarm company before testing

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Gresham

• Security Camera Permits in Gresham, Oregon

Additional Resources

• Gresham Fire Permits
• GFD Documents and Forms
• Gresham Building and Permits
• Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Oregon Low Voltage License Requirements