Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Johnson County, Kansas

Installing fire alarm systems in Johnson County, Kansas requires permits, proper licensing, and compliance with state fire code requirements. Johnson County has specific contractor licensing requirements including the Class DFA (Fire Alarm) license with NICET certification. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits, licensing, and the approval process for fire alarm installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, always. Fire alarm system installations in Johnson County, Kansas require permits. The Johnson County Building Codes department handles permits for unincorporated areas, while projects within cities (Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, etc.) require permits through those cities. All fire alarm contractors must hold a valid Johnson County Class DFA license.

Understanding Johnson County's Jurisdiction

Johnson County Building Codes issues permits only for projects in unincorporated Johnson County. If your project is within a city, obtain permits through that city:

• Olathe: Fire Marshal's Office | 913-971-7900
• Overland Park: City Building Department
• Shawnee, Lenexa, Prairie Village: Contact respective city fire marshal offices

When Is a Fire Alarm Permit Required?

Permits are required for all fire alarm work including:

• New fire alarm system installations: Complete systems in new construction or existing buildings
• System modifications: Adding or relocating detection devices, notification appliances, or control equipment
• Panel replacements: Upgrading or replacing fire alarm control panels
• Device additions: Adding smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, or horns/strobes
• Monitoring changes: Modifications to central station connections

What License Do You Need to Install Fire Alarms in Johnson County?

Fire alarm contractors must hold a Johnson County Class DFA (Fire Alarm) license.

Class DFA License Requirements

A Class DFA license entitles the holder to install, maintain, repair, alter, or add to any fire alarm system in commercial, residential, agricultural, and utility structures.

Qualification Requirements (one of the following):

• NICET Certification: National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technology (NICET) Fire Alarm Systems Level III or Level IV
• ICC Examination: Score of 75% or higher on an ICC or Prometric fire alarm examination
• Engineering Degree: Bachelor's degree or higher in Architecture, Construction Science, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant engineering from an ABET or ACCE accredited institution

License Fees

• One-time application fee: $100
• License fee: $225 per license

Insurance Requirements

Every licensed contractor must maintain:

• General liability insurance with completed operations coverage
• Workers' compensation insurance (when required by Kansas law)

Kansas State Fire Marshal Registration

While Kansas does not license fire alarm companies at the state level, registration with the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office is required.

For more details on Kansas contractor requirements, see our Kansas Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for a Fire Alarm Permit in Johnson County?

For projects in unincorporated Johnson County:

1. Create an account: Register at the Johnson County Online Permitting Portal
2. Submit plans: Provide fire alarm system plans with PE seal (for commercial projects)
3. Include documentation: Device layouts, battery calculations, and product data sheets
4. Pay permit fees: Fees based on project scope
5. Schedule inspections: Request rough-in and final inspections

Note: As of January 1, 2020, all building permit applications must be submitted through the customer portal.

What Codes Apply to Fire Alarms in Johnson County?

Johnson County enforces:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• International Fire Code (IFC): As adopted with local amendments
• Kansas Fire Prevention Code: Enforced by State Fire Marshal statewide

Residential vs Commercial Fire Alarm Requirements

Residential Fire Alarms

Kansas Statute 31-160 (Smoke Detector Act) requires every single-family residence to have at least one smoke detector on every story, including the basement.

• Standalone smoke detectors typically don't require permits
• Monitored residential fire alarm systems require licensed contractors
• Interconnected hardwired systems may require electrical permits

Commercial Fire Alarms

Commercial installations require:

• Licensed DFA contractor with NICET Level III or IV
• PE-stamped plans for plan review
• UL certification from UL-listed contractor
• Central station monitoring per code requirements
• NFPA 72 Record of Completion documentation
• Annual inspection and testing

Pro Tips for Fire Alarm Contractors in Johnson County

Based on experience working in Johnson County, here are practical recommendations:

• Get your DFA license first: Johnson County strictly enforces contractor licensing. Apply through the Contractor Portal before bidding work.
• NICET Level III minimum: While Level II may suffice for some jurisdictions, Johnson County requires Level III or IV for DFA licensing.
• Verify jurisdiction: Determine if the project is in unincorporated Johnson County or within a city to know which permitting office to contact.
• Register with State Fire Marshal: Complete state registration even though it's not a license.
• Use the online portal: All Johnson County permits require online submission.
• PE stamps for commercial: Commercial fire alarm plans typically require Professional Engineer seal.
• Coordinate with city fire marshals: Each city within Johnson County may have additional requirements.

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Related Permit Guides for Johnson County, Kansas

• Security Camera Permits in Johnson County, KS

Contact Information

For permit and licensing questions:

• Johnson County Building Codes: jocogov.org/department/building-codes | 913-715-2200
• Johnson County Contractor Licensing: jocogov.org | 913-715-2233 (Option #1)
• Online Permitting Portal: Online Portal
• Kansas State Fire Marshal: firemarshal.ks.gov | 785-296-3401

Last updated: January 2026. Fire alarm requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements with Johnson County or your city before beginning work.