Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Montgomery, Alabama

Installing a fire alarm system in Montgomery? Whether you're outfitting a commercial building, completing a tenant buildout, or installing a system in new construction, understanding Alabama's licensing requirements and Montgomery's inspection process is essential for compliance.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm installations require both state licensing and local permits. Alabama requires State Fire Marshal licensing for all fire alarm contractors. Montgomery Fire/Rescue conducts over 20,000 inspections annually, including fire alarm system installations, and has specific requirements for contractors and plan reviews.

What License Do You Need in Alabama?

Fire alarm work in Alabama requires State Fire Marshal licensing:

State Fire Marshal Requirements

• Permit Required: State Fire Marshal's permit mandatory for all fire alarm work
• Application Fee: $100
• Certification: NICET Fire Alarm System Technician Level II or higher
• Local Submission: Must provide copy of State Fire Marshal's permit to local building official

What's Prohibited Without License

It is unlawful to engage in installing, repairing, altering, adding, maintaining, or inspecting fire alarm systems without a valid State Fire Marshal's permit.

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

How Do You Apply for a Permit in Montgomery?

Montgomery Fire/Rescue Inspections Bureau

• Address: 19 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
• Phone: (334) 625-3916
• Fire Marshal: Assistant Fire Chief Audrey L. Milam, (334) 625-2154

Plan Review Process

1. Call (334) 625-3916 to schedule plan review appointment
2. Or bring plans directly to 19 Madison Avenue
3. Review takes 10-14 business days
4. Fees vary by square footage

Required Documentation

• Copy of State Fire Marshal's permit
• Fire alarm system plans
• Equipment specifications
• NFPA 72 compliance documentation
• Completed contractor checklist (available on city website)

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Details
State Fire Marshal Application	$100
Plan Review	Varies by square footage
Plan Review Timeline	10-14 business days
Initial Inspection	No charge
Re-Inspection (if violations)	$75 (after free re-inspection)

What Codes Apply in Montgomery?

Montgomery follows Alabama-adopted codes:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code (required for all systems installed after August 1, 2009)
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code
• Local Amendments: Montgomery may have additional local requirements

How Do Inspections Work?

Scheduling Inspections

• Call (334) 625-3916 to schedule
• Or visit 19 Madison Avenue in person

Inspection Process

• Initial Inspection: No charge
• First Re-Inspection: Free if violations found
• Subsequent Re-Inspections: $75 fee if violations not corrected

What Inspectors Check

• Device placement per approved plans
• NFPA 72 compliance
• Proper wiring and connections
• Panel programming
• Functional testing of all devices
• Monitoring connection verification

What Resources Does Montgomery Provide?

Montgomery Fire/Rescue provides several helpful resources:

• Fire Alarm Contractor Lists
• Fire Alarm Monitoring Contractor Lists
• Fire Alarm Installation and Renovation Forms
• Contractor Fire Alarm Checklists

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial?

Residential Fire Alarms

• Basic smoke detectors can be DIY installed
• Monitored systems require licensed contractor
• New construction requires hardwired, interconnected detectors

Commercial Fire Alarms

• State License: State Fire Marshal permit required
• Plan Review: Required before installation
• Inspections: Mandatory before occupancy
• Annual Testing: NFPA 72 requires ongoing inspections

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Get State Fire Marshal license first: Montgomery requires proof before permits
• Use city resources: Download contractor checklists and approved lists
• Allow time for plan review: 10-14 days, so plan accordingly
• Fix violations promptly: First re-inspection is free, subsequent ones cost $75
• Maintain documentation: Keep NFPA 72 Record of Completion and test records

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Montgomery

• Security Camera Permits in Montgomery

More Montgomery permit guides coming soon. Check our complete permit guide library for other Alabama jurisdictions.