Common Violations

Most Common Fire Code Violations
  • Use approved address identification that includes suite numbers/letters contrasting to background color. Your address, including suite or unit numbers/letters, must be visible from the street. For larger buildings set back from the street, more signs may be needed.
  • Remove obstructions and combustible material from exits, stairs, and fire escapes. Make sure that storage and merchandise are kept clear of exits and exit paths. Storage under open stairways is prohibited.
  • Clearly mark all exits and make sure that illuminated exit signs are fully lit at all times. Generally, all exits including the main entrance are required to have an “EXIT” sign. Some businesses with large windows may be exempt. If there are lighted exit signs, all bulbs must be illuminated when the building is occupied. Replace bulbs and check emergency lighting to ensure they will work in an emergency.
  • Repair or restore fire doors to automatic self-closing and latching by removing wedges and door stops. Doors that have self-closing devices are designed to keep fire and smoke from spreading. Wedges/door stops that hold doors open reduce your chances of escape and increase the amount of fire damage.
  • Limit or discontinue use of extension cords and multi-plug adapters. Extension cords are designed only for use with portable appliances (e.g. drill, buffer, grinder) not in place of permanent wiring. Non-approved cords and adapters may overload the electrical circuit capacity, a major cause of fire. UL listed multiple-outlet strips with built-in circuit breaker protection are allowed in lieu of extension cords as long as they plug directly into the wall outlet and the appliance plugs into the outlet strip.
  • Provide cover plates for all open electrical boxes and switches. This confines potential arcing to within the safety of the outlet and junction boxes. Replace all missing and damaged cover plates.
  • Maintain 30-inch clearance in front of, and clear access to, all electrical panels. Clearing the area allows fire fighters quick access to circuit breakers. If panels are in an enclosed room, provide permanent signage (e.g. "Electrical Room").
  • Inspect fire extinguishers monthly, maintain a written log, and provide annual service through an outside vendor. Annual maintenance by a certified company is required for portable fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers shall be mounted no more than 5 feet from the finish floor.
  • Fire protection systems need certification every year. Hood systems need certification every 6 months.
  • Keys located in Knox Box are not current.