Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Las Vegas, Nevada

Fire alarm system installations in Las Vegas require permits, proper contractor licensing, and compliance with both local ordinances and NFPA standards. This guide covers everything low-voltage contractors need to know about fire alarm permits in Clark County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm permits are required in Las Vegas. All new fire alarm installations and modifications to existing systems require a fire permit from the Las Vegas Fire Prevention Division. Contractors must also hold a valid Nevada C-2C Fire Detection license through the Nevada State Contractors Board.

What License Do You Need for Fire Alarm Work in Nevada?

Fire alarm work in Nevada requires specific licensing through the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB).

The required license is:

• C-2C Fire Detection - Covers installation, alteration, and repair of electrical sensors and alarms used to detect heat and smoke, including all appurtenances and related wiring

Important distinction: The C-2C Fire Detection license is separate from the C-2D Low Voltage Systems license. While C-2D covers security cameras, access control, and structured cabling, fire alarm work specifically requires C-2C.

License requirements include:

• Four years of journeyman-level experience within the past 10 years
• Pass the C-2C trade exam (open-book, 35 questions, 70% passing score)
• Pass the Contractor Management Survey Exam
• Submit 4 reference certificates documenting work experience
• Criminal background investigation
• Proof of workers' compensation insurance

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

How Do You Apply for Fire Alarm Permits in Las Vegas?

The Las Vegas Fire Prevention Division handles all fire alarm permits. The application process includes:

Step 1: Prepare Construction Documents

Submit shop drawings prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 that show:

• Location, nature, and extent of proposed work
• System layout and device placement
• Riser diagrams and wiring specifications
• Battery and power supply calculations
• Notification appliance circuit voltage drop calculations

Step 2: Submit Through Citizen Portal

Construction-related fire permits are submitted through the City of Las Vegas Citizen Portal. Include:

• Completed fire protection application
• NFPA 72-compliant shop drawings
• Product cut sheets for listed equipment
• Contractor license documentation

Step 3: Plan Review

The Fire Prevention Division reviews plans to ensure compliance with:

• International Fire Code (2018 edition as amended)
• NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• Las Vegas Municipal Code
• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 477

Step 4: Installation and Inspection

After permit approval:

• Install system per approved plans
• Schedule inspection with Fire Prevention Division
• Conduct acceptance testing per NFPA 72
• Provide certificate of completion

Contact Las Vegas Fire Prevention at LVFirePrevention@LasVegasNevada.gov or visit the Fire Codes page for current requirements.

What Are the Monitoring Requirements for Fire Alarms?

Per Section 907.6.6 of the adopted fire code, fire alarm systems must be monitored by an approved supervising station. Requirements include:

• Central station monitoring in accordance with NFPA 72
• Monitoring facility must be approved by Las Vegas Fire & Rescue
• Compliance with UL 827 for central station operations
• Proper signal transmission and verification protocols

Monitoring companies must also obtain a Regulated Alarm business license under Clark County Municipal Code 6.76.

What Are the Signage Requirements for Fire Alarm Panels?

Clark County Fire Code requires specific signage for fire alarm control panels:

• "FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL" sign required
• Minimum 2-inch letters with 1/2-inch stroke
• Contrasting colors between letters and background
• Sign placed on door leading to fire alarm control panel

Fees and Timeline Summary

Requirement	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Nevada C-2C License (new)	$300-$600	4-8 weeks
C-2C License Renewal	$300/year	Annual
Fire Alarm Permit	$150-$500+	2-4 weeks review
Plan Review Fee	Based on project scope	Included in permit
Inspection Fee	Varies	Schedule after install

Fees vary based on system size and complexity. Contact Las Vegas Fire Prevention for current fee schedules.

How Does Commercial Differ from Residential Fire Alarm Work?

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

• Permits required for all new installations and modifications
• Must comply with IFC Chapter 9 occupancy requirements
• Central station monitoring mandatory for most occupancies
• Integrated testing with smoke control systems per NFPA 4
• Annual inspection and testing requirements
• Fire Protection Report submittal required for larger projects

Residential Fire Alarm Systems

• Single-family homes typically require smoke alarms, not full fire alarm systems
• Multi-family residential (apartments, condos) require permitted fire alarm systems
• Smoke alarms must comply with Nevada Revised Statutes
• Interconnected smoke alarms required in new construction
• Battery backup requirements apply

What About Clark County vs. City of Las Vegas?

Unincorporated Clark County has its own fire prevention division separate from the City of Las Vegas:

• City of Las Vegas: Contact Las Vegas Fire Prevention Division
• Clark County (unincorporated): Contact Clark County Fire Prevention
• Henderson: Henderson Fire Department
• North Las Vegas: North Las Vegas Fire Prevention

Always verify which jurisdiction covers your project location before applying for permits.

What Are Common Fire Alarm Permit Mistakes to Avoid?

• Wrong license: Using C-2D instead of C-2C for fire alarm work
• Missing NFPA 72 compliance: Shop drawings must follow national standards
• Unapproved monitoring: Using non-approved central stations
• Skipping integrated testing: Systems connected to smoke control require NFPA 4 testing
• Wrong jurisdiction: Applying to wrong fire department for project location

Pro Tips for Las Vegas Fire Alarm Contractors

• Start early: Fire alarm plan review can take 2-4 weeks; factor this into project timelines
• Listed equipment only: All components must be UL listed for fire alarm use
• Casino projects: Gaming establishments have additional Nevada Gaming Control requirements
• High-rise buildings: Additional requirements for buildings over 75 feet
• Smoke control integration: Coordinate early with mechanical contractors on smoke evacuation systems
• Documentation: Keep detailed records for required annual testing and inspection

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Nevada and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

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Related Permit Guides for Las Vegas

• Security Camera Permits in Las Vegas
• Access Control Permits in Las Vegas
• Structured Cabling Permits in Las Vegas