Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Jonesboro, Arkansas

Installing fire alarm systems in Jonesboro requires permits, state licensing, and code compliance. This guide covers what low voltage contractors need to know about fire alarm installations in Northeast Arkansas's largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm systems require permits in Jonesboro. Fire protection system installations must comply with the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code and are subject to inspection by the Inspections Department.

What Triggers Fire Alarm Permit Requirements?

Fire alarm permits are required in Jonesboro for:

• New commercial fire alarm system installations
• Fire alarm system upgrades or replacements
• Adding devices to existing fire alarm systems
• Tenant improvements requiring fire alarm modifications
• Change of occupancy affecting fire alarm requirements

Jonesboro follows the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, which adopts the International Fire Code (IFC) and related codes.

Do You Need a License to Install Fire Alarms in Arkansas?

Yes. Arkansas requires a Class E Alarm Systems Company license to install fire alarm systems. The Arkansas State Police regulates alarm companies through two primary Class E subcategories:

• Class E Unrestricted - Required for fire alarm systems mandated by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code
• Class E Restricted - Limited to structures not required by code to have fire alarms

For complete licensing requirements, see our Arkansas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Manager Training Requirements

Class E Unrestricted Manager must hold one of:

• NICET Level III or Level IV Fire Alarm certification
• ESA Level I, Level IIA-Electronics or ABAT, and FAIM
• NESA Electronics and Fire Installation and Wiring Codes
• Elite CEU Level I with AEIT and FAIT

License Fees

License Type	Initial Fee	Renewal Fee	Term
Class E Company License	$600	$300	2 years
Alarm Technician	$40	$40	2 years

How Do You Apply for a Fire Alarm Permit in Jonesboro?

1. Contact Planning and Zoning - Confirm permit requirements at (870) 932-0406
2. Submit plans - Provide fire alarm system drawings
3. Plan review - Plans reviewed for Arkansas Fire Prevention Code compliance
4. Installation - Complete installation per approved plans
5. Schedule inspection - Contact Inspections Department at (870) 933-4602
6. Final approval - Receive certificate of completion

Contact Information

Jonesboro Planning and Zoning Department
Phone: (870) 932-0406

Jonesboro Inspections Department
Phone: (870) 933-4602

Arkansas State Fire Marshal's Office
Phone: (501) 683-6740

Arkansas State Police - Regulatory Services (Licensing)
Phone: (501) 618-8600

What Fire Codes Apply in Jonesboro?

• 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code
• International Fire Code (IFC)
• International Building Code (IBC)
• NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

Residential vs Commercial Fire Alarm Requirements

Residential Fire Alarms

Single-family and two-family dwellings typically require smoke alarms per the IRC but may not require permitted fire alarm systems unless the structure exceeds residential code thresholds.

Commercial Fire Alarms

Commercial buildings requiring fire alarm systems must be installed by Class E Unrestricted contractors. Key facilities in Jonesboro include:

• Arkansas State University buildings
• St. Bernards Medical Center and healthcare facilities
• Assembly and educational occupancies
• High-rise buildings

Pro Tips for Fire Alarm Contractors in Jonesboro

• Northeast Arkansas hub - Jonesboro serves the region; healthcare and education construction drives fire alarm demand
• NFPA 72 compliance - Fire alarm systems must meet NFPA 72 standards
• Monitoring requirements - Commercial fire alarms typically require UL-listed central station monitoring
• Keep approved plans on site - Inspectors require plans during inspection

Stay Ahead of Fire Alarm Project Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Jonesboro
• Fire Alarm Permits in Little Rock

Summary

Fire alarm installations in Jonesboro require building permits and code compliance review. Contractors must hold a Class E license from Arkansas State Police. Contact the Jonesboro Inspections Department at (870) 933-4602 for inspection scheduling and the Planning and Zoning Department at (870) 932-0406 for permit applications.