Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Washington County, Utah

Installing fire alarm systems in Washington County requires permits from the county and proper licensing from the Utah State Fire Marshal's Office. Washington County's Community Development Department works with fire officials to ensure fire and life safety code compliance for all fire alarm installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, fire alarm installations require permits. Washington County requires permits for all new fire alarm system installations, modifications, and additions. Plans must be submitted electronically and approved before installation begins. Final inspections are required before system activation. Fire alarm work also requires licensing through the Utah State Fire Marshal.

What Fire Alarm Work Requires a Permit in Washington County?

The following fire alarm work requires a permit:

• New fire alarm system installations
• Additions or expansions to existing systems
• Modifications to system configuration or device layout
• Replacement of fire alarm control panels
• Installation of voice evacuation systems
• Smoke control system integration
• Mass notification system installations
• Carbon monoxide detection systems

When Is a Permit NOT Required?

Some minor fire alarm work may not require a separate permit:

• Replacing like-for-like devices (same model detector, same location)
• Programming changes that don't affect zone configurations
• Routine maintenance and testing
• Battery replacement in existing devices

Always verify with Washington County before proceeding with any fire alarm work.

Do You Need a License to Install Fire Alarms in Utah?

Yes. Utah requires fire alarm technicians to be certified by the Utah State Fire Marshal's Office. There are three certification levels:

Basic Fire Alarm Technician

• Entry-level certification for those new to the industry
• Employers have 90 days to prepare new employees for the exam
• Must pass open-book exam with minimum 70% score
• Must complete Manipulative Skills Task Book within 60 days
• Work must be supervised by a higher-level certified technician
• NICET Level I certification waives the exam requirement

Fire Alarm Technician

• Can work on systems in buildings up to four stories
• Must pass all Basic requirements plus written exam on testing and maintenance
• NICET Level II certification is equivalent

Master Fire Alarm Technician

• Can work on any fire alarm system including high-rise buildings
• Qualified for voice alarm/evacuation and smoke control systems
• Can perform annual inspections and tagging
• NICET Level III or IV certification is equivalent

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

How to Apply for a Fire Alarm Permit in Washington County

1. Prepare plans: Include complete system design with device locations
2. Create account: Register on the City Inspect online portal
3. Submit electronically: Washington County only accepts electronic applications
4. Upload documents: Add required plans and specifications
5. Wait for review: Plan review for code compliance
6. Pay permit fees: Upon approval
7. Complete installation: Work performed by licensed contractor
8. Request inspection: Schedule final inspection
9. System tagging: Upon approval, system tagged with State-approved tag

Plan Submittal Requirements

• Complete floor plans with device locations
• Riser diagrams showing all circuits
• Equipment cut sheets and specifications
• Battery calculations
• Voltage drop calculations
• Owner name, property address, and building permit number
• Contractor information and license verification

What Are the Permit Fees in Washington County?

Permit Type	Estimated Fee
Residential fire alarm permit	$100-$200
Commercial fire alarm permit	$200-$500+
Plan review fee	Additional percentage of permit fee
Re-inspection fee	$75+

Fees vary based on system size and complexity. Contact Washington County for exact quotes.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Stage	Typical Timeline
Plan review (residential)	3-5 business days
Plan review (commercial)	5-15 business days
Inspection scheduling	1-3 business days
Final inspection	Same day if passed

Code Requirements for Fire Alarm Systems

Washington County enforces the following standards:

• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• International Fire Code Chapter 9: Fire protection systems
• Utah Administrative Rules R710-4 and R710-11: State Fire Marshal requirements

Circuit Requirements

• Initiating device circuits: Must be Class A per NFPA 72
• Notification appliance circuits: Must be Class A per NFPA 72
• Class A wiring provides redundancy for circuit integrity

Annual Inspection and Tagging Requirements

Fire alarm systems require annual inspection and tagging:

• Inspections must be performed by a Master Fire Alarm Technician
• Systems must be tagged with State-approved fire alarm tags
• Inspection records must be maintained
• Deficiencies must be corrected promptly
• Tag requirements detailed in R710-11 rule

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Cities within Washington County (St. George, Hurricane, etc.) have their own requirements
• Use electronic submission: Washington County only accepts electronic permit applications
• Test before calling for inspection: Complete all contractor testing before final inspection
• Prepare compliance statement: Written statement of compliance required before final
• Keep NICET current: NICET certifications streamline the Utah licensing process

Washington County Contact Information

• Department: Community Development
• Director: Scott Messel
• Address: 111 East Tabernacle St., St. George, UT
• Website: washco.utah.gov/departments/community-development
• Book Inspection: Request Inspection

Utah State Fire Marshal Contact

• Fire Alarm Licensing: Jana DeMille - jana.demille@utah.gov
• Main Office: (801) 256-2390
• Website: firemarshal.utah.gov

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides for Washington County

• Security Camera Permits in Washington County