Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Orem, Utah

Planning a fire alarm installation in Orem? Whether you're installing a new system in a commercial building or upgrading an existing system, understanding the permit requirements, plan review process, and certification standards is essential for code compliance and safety.

This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know about fire alarm permits in Orem, Utah—including when permits are required, State Fire Marshal certification, contractor licensing, and inspections.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes. Fire alarm system installations in Orem require permits through the city's Development Services Building Safety Division. Fire alarms are life-safety systems subject to strict code requirements, inspections, and certification standards under both Orem municipal code and Utah State Fire Marshal regulations. Additionally, monitored alarm systems require a separate alarm permit from the Orem Police Department.

When Are Permits Required for Fire Alarms?

Permits are required for the following fire alarm work in Orem:

• Fire alarm and detection system installations - All new commercial and residential systems
• System modifications - Adding devices, zones, or coverage areas
• Panel replacements or upgrades - Replacing fire alarm control panels (FACP)
• Related equipment - Fire pumps, fuel tanks, jockey pumps, and controllers
• System removal from service - Decommissioning existing systems
• Tenant improvement projects - Fire alarm modifications as part of build-outs

What Are the Certification Requirements?

Utah has specific certification requirements for fire alarm work administered by the State Fire Marshal's Office:

Utah State Fire Marshal Certification Levels

Utah Certification	NICET Equivalent	Scope of Work
Basic Fire Alarm Technician	NICET Level I	Basic testing under direct supervision
Fire Alarm Technician	NICET Level II	Testing and maintenance up to 4-story buildings
Master Fire Alarm Technician	NICET Level III/IV	All buildings including voice evacuation and smoke control

System Design Requirements

Fire alarm system layouts must be prepared by a person certified by NICET at Level III or IV.

Do You Need a Contractor License?

Yes. In addition to State Fire Marshal technician certification, contractors need proper licensing from the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL):

• Fire Suppression Systems Contractor (S370) - Specialty contractor classification
• Low Voltage Technician License - For certain system components
• General Liability Insurance - Minimum $100,000 per incident, $300,000 total
• 25-hour Pre-licensure Course - Required for specialty contractor licenses

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

Does Orem Require Alarm Registration?

Yes. Orem City ordinance, Article 9-4, requires all alarm systems (including fire alarms connected to monitoring) to have a permit:

• Permit fee - Free of charge from Orem Police Department
• False alarm fees - Begin with the 4th false alarm within a calendar year
• Permit stickers - Must be posted on or near the alarm control board and near the front door
• Key holders - Provide 3 responsible parties who can respond within 30 minutes

Register at Orem Alarm Permits.

How Do You Apply for a Fire Alarm Permit?

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Gather required documents:

• Fire alarm system drawings prepared by NICET III/IV certified designer
• Equipment specifications and cut sheets
• Sequence of operation narrative
• Battery and voltage drop calculations
• Device placement floor plans
• Riser diagrams

Step 2: Submit Application Online

Orem requires online permit submittal:

• Online Portal: Orem Building Permits
• Register: Utah City Inspect Registration
• In Person: Development Services, 56 North State, Orem, UT 84057
• Phone: (801) 229-7060

Step 3: Plan Review

Plans are reviewed by Development Services and Fire Prevention for compliance with:

• 2021 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• Utah Administrative Rules R710-4 and R710-11

The Orem Fire Prevention Division serves Orem, Lindon, and Vineyard, handling plan reviews, permits, and fire inspections.

Step 4: Inspections

Schedule required inspections at various stages:

• Rough-in inspection - Before walls are closed, verify device placement and wiring
• Final inspection - System testing with inspector present
• Acceptance testing - Complete functional test of all devices and sequences

What Are the Annual Inspection Requirements?

Fire alarm systems in Orem require ongoing compliance:

• Annual inspection required - Per NFPA 72 and state regulations
• System tagging - Fire alarm systems must be inspected and tagged annually
• Certified technicians only - Inspections must be performed by State Fire Marshal certified technicians
• Documentation - Maintain inspection records for authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) review

What About Residential vs Commercial Projects?

Residential Fire Alarms

For single-family and multi-family residential in Orem:

• Smoke detectors required per Utah Residential Code
• Interconnected smoke alarms in new construction
• CO detectors required in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages
• Permits typically required for monitored fire alarm systems

Commercial Fire Alarms

Commercial projects have extensive requirements:

• System design by NICET Level III/IV certified professional
• Occupancy-specific requirements based on IBC
• Fire sprinkler integration and monitoring
• Voice evacuation systems for certain occupancies
• ADA-compliant notification appliances

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Get NICET certified - Utah accepts NICET certifications in lieu of state exams
• Coordinate with Fire Prevention early - Orem Fire Prevention serves multiple cities and can get busy
• Register for monitoring - Complete alarm permit registration before connecting to central station
• Document everything - Maintain detailed records for future service and inspections
• Plan for annual compliance - Inform clients about ongoing inspection and tagging requirements
• Provide key holder information - Alarm permits require 3 responsible parties
• Post permit stickers - Required near control panel and front door

Contact Information

Orem Development Services

• Address: 56 North State, Orem, UT 84057
• Phone: (801) 229-7060
• Website: Orem Community Development

Orem Fire Prevention

• Website: Orem Fire Prevention & Inspections

Utah County Fire Marshal

• Website: Utah County Fire Marshal

Utah State Fire Marshal

• Phone: (801) 256-2390
• Website: Utah State Fire Marshal - Fire Alarm Systems

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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