Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Racine County, Wisconsin

Installing fire alarm systems in Racine County, Wisconsin? Whether you are working on a commercial building in the City of Racine, a healthcare facility in Mount Pleasant, or a multi-family property in Sturtevant, understanding the permitting process helps you deliver compliant installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, for most commercial fire alarm work. Wisconsin state law requires plan review for fire alarm systems with more than 20 devices. The City of Racine Building Department handles local permits and inspections for work within city limits.

Wisconsin State Plan Review Requirements

Under Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 361.30:

When Plan Review Is Required

• New fire alarm system installations in commercial buildings
• Alterations adding more than 20 devices to existing systems
• Systems in places of employment and public buildings

When Plan Review Is NOT Required

• Alterations of 20 or fewer devices to existing systems
• Device replacements that do not change system design
• Single-family and two-family residential systems

A device includes: panels, power supplies, annunciators, horns, strobes, smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, and door holders.

Do You Need a Contractor License?

Wisconsin does not require a specific fire alarm contractor license. However, plan submittals require a supervising professional signature from a Wisconsin registered Architect, Professional Engineer, or Designer of Engineering Systems (Electrical).

For details, see our Wisconsin Low Voltage License Guide.

City of Racine Building Department

For fire alarm work in the City of Racine:

Building Department
730 Washington Avenue, Room 304
Racine, WI 53403
Phone: (262) 636-9464

Plan Submission Options

Option 1: DSPS Direct

Submit through the eSLA Portal at esla.wi.gov for state review.

Option 2: Delegated Municipality

Check if your municipality has delegated authority for local plan approval.

Fire Departments in Racine County

Racine County has multiple fire departments serving different areas. Contact the appropriate department for inspection coordination:

• City of Racine Fire Department
• Mount Pleasant Fire and Rescue
• Caledonia Fire Department
• Burlington Fire Department

Pro Tips for Racine County Contractors

• Track device counts to stay under 20 for smaller projects
• Partner with licensed engineers for plan submittals
• Document all testing and as-built drawings
• Coordinate with the appropriate fire department for inspections

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Wisconsin and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

Explore LVN Signal

Key Contacts

• City of Racine Building: (262) 636-9464
• Wisconsin DSPS: Fire Alarm Submittal Guidelines
• Racine County Fire Departments: Fire Departments List

Related Permit Guides for Racine County

• Security Camera Permits in Racine County
• Access Control Permits in Racine County
• Structured Cabling Permits in Racine County

Summary

Fire alarm work in Racine County requires state plan review for systems with more than 20 devices. While Wisconsin does not require a fire alarm contractor license, plan submittals need a supervising professional signature. Contact the City of Racine Building Department for local permit requirements.