Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Shreveport, Louisiana

Installing fire alarm systems in Shreveport requires permits, Louisiana State Fire Marshal licensing, and coordination with the Shreveport Fire Department. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits, licensing, and compliance for fire alarm projects in Shreveport.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm installations require permits. Shreveport requires permits for all new fire alarm system installations and major modifications. Fire alarm work is heavily regulated due to life safety implications. Plan reviews and inspections are required, and systems must meet NFPA 72 standards.

What Projects Require Fire Alarm Permits?

Shreveport requires permits for fire alarm work including:

• New fire alarm system installations
• System expansions adding devices
• Control panel replacements or upgrades
• Modifications affecting system coverage
• Addressable system conversions
• Integration with sprinkler or suppression systems
• Voice evacuation system installations

When Are Permits NOT Required?

Permits may not be required for:

• Battery replacements in existing devices
• Device testing and inspection
• Minor repairs with like-for-like replacements
• Software updates to existing panels
• Annual inspection and testing services

What License Do You Need in Louisiana?

Fire alarm contractors in Louisiana must hold proper licensing from the Louisiana State Fire Marshal's Office. This is separate from permits and is required to legally perform fire alarm work.

State Fire Marshal Fire Alarm License Requirements

Requirement	Details	Fee
Firm Application	Must be physically located in Louisiana	$250
Qualifier	Must live within 150 miles, NICET Level II+	Included
Background Check	Fingerprinting for all owners/principals	Additional fees
Employee Certification	Fire alarm specific certifications required	Varies
Annual CEUs	8 continuing education units required	Varies

All employees must complete the Fire Marshal administrative rules course. You can verify requirements through the Louisiana State Fire Marshal Licensing website.

How Do You Apply for a Shreveport Fire Alarm Permit?

Follow these steps to obtain your permit:

1. Prepare plans - Include floor plans, device locations, riser diagrams, and equipment specifications
2. Submit for plan review - Shreveport Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau
3. Pay permit fees - Based on system size and complexity
4. Receive approval - After plan review passes
5. Obtain building permit - City of Shreveport Permits and Inspections
6. Schedule inspections - Rough-in and final inspections required
7. Obtain certificate - Certificate of completion after final inspection

Contact Information

Shreveport Fire Department - Fire Prevention Bureau
1144 Texas Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71101
Phone: (318) 673-6650

City of Shreveport Permits and Inspections
505 Travis Street, Suite 700
Shreveport, LA 71101
Phone: (318) 673-5900

What Are the Permit Fees and Timeline?

Fee Type	Amount
Fire alarm permit	$75-150
Plan review fee	$50-100
Re-inspection fee	$50
Plan review time	5-10 business days
Permit processing	2-3 business days after approval

Are Requirements Different for Residential vs Commercial?

Residential Fire Alarm Systems

Residential fire alarm requirements in Shreveport include:

• Smoke detectors required per IRC code
• Interconnected alarms in new construction
• Monitored systems may require permits
• Simple smoke detector replacement is permit-exempt

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

Commercial installations have stricter requirements:

• NFPA 72 compliance required
• SFD plan review mandatory
• Third-party monitoring required for most occupancies
• Voice evacuation for high-rise and assembly occupancies
• Integration with sprinkler systems
• Emergency responder notification

What About Caddo Parish?

Shreveport is the parish seat of Caddo Parish. Fire alarm projects in unincorporated areas may have different review processes. Neighboring Bossier City has its own fire department and permit requirements. Verify which jurisdiction applies to your project.

What NFPA Standards Apply?

Fire alarm installations in Shreveport must comply with:

• NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
• IBC/IFC - International Building/Fire Codes (as adopted by Louisiana)
• ADA - Accessibility requirements for notification devices

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Submit complete plans - Incomplete submissions delay SFD approval significantly
• Include battery calculations - Show 24-hour standby plus 5-minute alarm capacity
• Verify jurisdiction - Confirm whether project is in Shreveport, Bossier City, or parish
• Test before inspection - Run full system test before scheduling final inspection
• Coordinate early - Pre-submittal meetings save time on complex systems

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Shreveport

• Security Camera Permits in Shreveport
• Access Control Permits in Shreveport
• Structured Cabling Permits in Shreveport

Summary

Shreveport fire alarm installations require permits and plan review through the Shreveport Fire Department for all new systems and major modifications. Contractors must hold Louisiana State Fire Marshal licensing with proper certifications. Plan reviews typically take 5-10 business days, and both rough-in and final inspections are required. All systems must comply with NFPA 72 and applicable building codes.