Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Newport News, Virginia
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Complete guide to fire alarm permit requirements in Newport News, VA. Fire Protection Permit required. FAS contractor license needed.
Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Newport News, Virginia
Quick Answer: Newport News requires a Fire Protection Permit for fire alarm system installations. Applications are submitted to the Department of Codes Compliance at 2400 Washington Avenue. Contractors must hold a Virginia DPOR Fire Alarm Systems (FAS) contractor license.
When Permits Are Required vs. Exempt
Permit Required
- New fire alarm system installations
- Fire detection system installations
- Commercial fire alarm systems
- Multi-family residential buildings
- Fire alarm panel replacements
- System alterations or additions
Permit Exempt
- Single-family residential smoke detectors
- Portable fire extinguishers
- Like-for-like device replacements
- Annual testing and maintenance
Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Application
- Download the Fire Protection Permit Application
- Or visit the Citizen Self Service Portal
Step 2: Complete Application
The permit application requires:
- Project address and Parcel ID
- Applicant information (owner, contractor, agent, or design professional)
- Contractor business name and address
- Contractor State License # and Class (A, B, or C)
- CID # (Contractor ID number)
Step 3: Submit Application
Newport News Department of Codes Compliance
2400 Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor
Newport News, VA 23607
Phone: 757-933-2311
Fax: 757-926-8311
Email: codesclerical@nnva.gov
Step 4: Installation and Inspection
- Install system per approved plans and Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
- Schedule inspection with Codes Compliance
- Complete acceptance testing
Fire Marshal Contact Information
Newport News Fire Marshal Office
610 Thimble Shoals Blvd., Building 6
Newport News, VA 23606
Phone: 757-975-5400
Email: firemarshal@nnva.gov
The Fire Marshal Office issues permits for tents and public fireworks displays, investigates complaints, and provides annual inspections to over 4,000 properties per year.
Virginia DPOR Contractor Licensing
Fire alarm installation requires a Virginia DPOR contractor license with Fire Alarm Systems (FAS) specialty classification.
License Classes and Limits
| License Class | Contract Limit | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Class A FAS | Unlimited | 5 years |
| Class B FAS | $120,000 | 3 years |
| Class C FAS | $10,000 | 2 years |
For complete Virginia licensing requirements, see our Virginia Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.
Fees and Timeline
| Service | Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Protection Permit | Based on system value | 1-2 weeks review |
| Plan Review | Included | Varies by complexity |
| Inspection | Included | Schedule upon completion |
| DPOR FAS License | $180-$260 | 2-4 weeks |
Code Requirements
All installations must comply with:
- Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
- NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
- NEC Article 760: Fire Alarm Systems
- Newport News Local Ordinances (Chapter 16)
Residential Smoke Detector Requirements
Virginia law requires smoke alarms in residential properties:
- On each level of the home
- Outside sleeping areas
- Inside every bedroom
- May be battery operated or AC powered
- Installation shall not require new wiring per Virginia Code 15.2-922
Community Risk Reduction Division
The Newport News Fire Department Community Risk Reduction Division conducts fire prevention activities including:
- Annual inspections of commercial properties
- Fire code enforcement
- Public education and outreach
- Fire investigation services
Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors
- Include all license info: State license number, class, and CID required on application
- Submit complete applications: Missing information delays permit approval
- Follow Virginia USBC: Work must conform to Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
- Contact Codes Compliance early: For complex projects, discuss requirements upfront
- Maintain documentation: Keep records of all installations for annual inspections
Stay Ahead of Project Opportunities
Want to know when commercial buildouts and fire alarm upgrades hit permits in Newport News before they reach bid boards?
LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Virginia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.
Related Permit Guides
- Virginia Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
- Newport News Security Camera Permit Requirements
- Norfolk Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
- Chesapeake Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
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