What is a fire protection system?
Fire protection systems include automatic sprinkler networks, chemical suppression units, water pumps, and portable fire extinguishers. These systems work with fire alarms and smoke detection to keep people and buildings safe.
Planning and installation rules
All fire protection systems must meet the Ontario Building Code and the National Fire Code (Ontario Edition). Before you start work, you need a building permit and a fire safety plan. The plan must show where every sprinkler head, suppression unit, and pump will be located. You must also submit a site-specific plan for commercial and multi-unit projects through the Fire Prevention online portal. The City enforces these standards under the Ontario Building Code and local by-law requirements.
Service reports and inspections
Fire safety systems need regular checks. A qualified service company must inspect them at least once a year. After the inspection, the company writes a service report. This report lists the building address, the date of the test, the testing standard, and whether the system is fully functional or has deficiencies. You must keep these reports on site for two years and show them to a Fire Safety Codes Officer when asked.
Reporting deficient systems
A deficiency is a problem that must be fixed right away to meet the National Fire Code. It is different from a recommendation, which is just a suggestion for improvement. If your building has a deficiency and you cannot fix it right away, the service company must report it to the City. They use an electronic reporting form to send the details directly to the Fire Prevention office. Once a report is filed, a Fire Safety Codes Officer will contact you to confirm that repairs are made or will be made. You will need to send a formal letter or report from your service company showing that the system is back to full working order.
Fees and inspection scheduling
Inspection fees are included in your overall building permit. You do not pay extra for the initial fire protection system inspection. However, an additional fee applies if:
- The site is not safe or accessible for the inspector.
- Plans or a site representative are missing at the scheduled time.
- Work has gone past the inspection point and needs to be uncovered.
- Previous deficiencies were not fixed.
- The inspection is cancelled after the scheduling deadline.
You can book or cancel inspections online through your permit account by 2:00 p.m. on a business day. If you cancel on time, there is no charge.
Contact us
For questions about submitting a fire protection system plan, booking an inspection, or reporting a deficiency, contact Fire Rescue at Fire Station 1.
Address: 210 Water Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A6
Phone: 519-555-0115
Hours: Administration Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Email: [email protected]