Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia

Quick Answer: Savannah, Georgia requires fire alarm permits for all new system installations and any modifications to existing systems. Plans must comply with NFPA 72 as amended by Georgia state rules. Contractors must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Alarm (LVA) or Unrestricted (LVU) license. Submit permits through the eTrac Savannah online portal to the Fire Marshal's Office.

When Is a Fire Alarm Permit Required?

The Savannah Fire Marshal's Office requires permits for:

• New fire alarm system installations
• Modifications to existing systems
• Alterations and repairs that affect system operation
• System expansions adding devices or zones
• Panel replacements or upgrades

Note: Routine maintenance and testing typically do not require permits, but must be performed by licensed contractors and documented per NFPA 72 requirements.

Code Standards

All fire alarm systems in Savannah must comply with:

• NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code (as amended by Georgia)
• Georgia Rules 120-3-3 - State Minimum Fire Safety Standards
• NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code (for egress and access control integration)
• NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code

Georgia Contractor Licensing Requirements

Fire alarm work in Savannah requires a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license from the Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors.

Applicable License Types

License	Code	Fire Alarm Scope
Low Voltage Alarm	LVA	Fire alarm, burglar alarm, detection systems
Low Voltage Unrestricted	LVU	All low voltage work including fire alarms

NICET Certification Requirements

Georgia requires fire protection professionals to hold NICET certification for fire alarm work. Requirements include:

• NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level I minimum for technicians
• NICET Level III required for system inspectors
• Many jurisdictions require NICET certification for plan submittals
• Continuing education required every 3 years (90 CPD points)

Equivalent certifications accepted: ESA National Training School Certified Fire Alarm Technician (CFAT) Level II is accepted as equivalent to NICET in some Georgia jurisdictions.

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

For new installations, submit:

• Current Georgia low voltage license (LVA or LVU)
• At least three copies of scaled installation drawings
• Correct NFPA 170 fire alarm symbols on drawings
• Complete riser diagram
• Complete operation matrix
• Correct notification appliance circuit labels
• Battery calculations with NAC layout by circuit
• Two product submittal packages
• Permit application with project narrative

For alterations/modifications, submit:

• Current Georgia low voltage license
• Floor plan showing affected areas of the system
• Description of modifications

Step 2: Submit Through eTrac Savannah

Fire protection permits are submitted online through the eTrac Savannah portal. The city provides a step-by-step user guide for the system.

Alternative submission: Paper plans with company check or money order can be dropped off at the Fire Marshal's Office. Include a copy of your eTrac summary page.

Step 3: Plan Review

The Fire Marshal's Office reviews plans for NFPA 72 compliance and Georgia amendments. Review times vary based on project complexity.

Step 4: Receive Approved Plans

Stamped/approved scaled plans are required on the job site during installation. The issued permit must be posted on the premises and readily available for inspection.

Fees and Timeline

Service	Typical Fee Range
Fire alarm permit (new system)	$75 - $300+
Fire alarm permit (modification)	$50 - $150
Plan review	Included in permit fee
Reinspection fee	$50 - $100

Timeline: Plan review typically takes 5-10 business days for straightforward projects. Complex commercial systems may require additional review time.

Alarm Registration Requirements

Beyond the installation permit, Savannah requires all active alarm systems to be registered with the city through PMAM Corporation, which manages the municipal alarm tracking program.

False Alarm Fee Schedule

False Alarms per Year	Fee per Alarm
1-3	No charge
4-6	$100
7-13	$150
14+	$200

The 12-month billing cycle determines false alarm counts. Proper system design, installation, and maintenance help minimize false alarms.

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Fire Alarms

• Single-family homes typically require smoke detectors per Georgia Code §25-2-40
• Monitored systems require alarm registration
• New construction must meet current NFPA 72 requirements
• Permits required for system installations beyond basic smoke detectors

Commercial Fire Alarms

• Full permit process required for all installations
• NFPA 72 compliant design mandatory
• Occupancy type determines detection and notification requirements
• Integration with sprinkler systems per NFPA requirements
• Annual inspection and testing documentation required
• Central station monitoring often required by occupancy type

Inspection Requirements

The Savannah Fire Marshal's Office conducts inspections at key project milestones:

• Rough-in inspection: Before concealing conduit and wiring
• Final inspection: Complete system testing and acceptance

Have approved stamped plans on site during all inspections. The permit must be visibly posted.

Pro Tips for Savannah Fire Alarm Projects

Historic Buildings: Savannah's extensive historic districts present unique challenges. Wireless fire alarm devices can minimize disruption to historic structures while maintaining NFPA 72 compliance.

Coastal Environment: The humid coastal climate affects equipment selection. Specify devices rated for high-humidity environments and use appropriate weatherproofing for outdoor components.

Occupancy Classification: Savannah's mix of hospitality, retail, and residential uses means varied fire alarm requirements. Verify occupancy classification early to ensure proper system design.

Documentation: Maintain complete as-built drawings and test records. Georgia requires NFPA 72 compliant inspection, testing, and maintenance documentation throughout the system's life.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Guides

• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia
• Browse All Permit Guides

Contact Information

Savannah Fire Marshal's Office
Fire Prevention Division
Phone: (912) 644-5960
Website: savannahga.gov

eTrac Savannah Permit Portal
Online Permit Submission

Alarm Registration (PMAM)
Savannah Alarm Program

Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 195
Macon, GA 31210
sos.ga.gov