What is a fire pump safety plan?
A fire pump safety plan shows how your building's fire pump system is installed, tested, and maintained. Fire pumps keep water pressure high enough for sprinklers and fire hoses to work during a fire. The Ontario Building Code requires a plan for most commercial buildings, multi-unit residential buildings, and facilities with more than three storeys. Without a working pump, sprinklers may not push water far enough to stop a fire from spreading.
Who needs a plan?
- High-rise residential buildings (four storeys or more)
- Commercial and industrial buildings over 300 square metres
- Hospitals, schools, and assembly occupancies
- Buildings using a booster pump or jockey pump to maintain water pressure
- Properties drawing water from a private well or low-pressure municipal line
If you are not sure whether your property needs a plan, contact our Fire Prevention office for a quick check.
How to submit your plan
All fire safety plans must be submitted through the Service Wrenford portal. You will need to upload the following documents:
- A completed Fire Safety Plan template and symbol guide tailored for pump systems
- Current system diagrams showing pump location, piping, control valves, and electrical connections
- A letter from a licensed fire protection technician confirming the pump is operational and meets current standards
- Payment for the initial review fee
Plans are reviewed within 30 business days. If we find issues, we will send a correction notice. You have 30 days to fix the items and resubmit your plan.
Fees and review times
The initial review fee is $275.00 per fire pump system. If an inspector must return to your site to verify the pump, a $150.00 re-inspection fee applies. All fees are set out in the Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. You can pay online through the portal or in person at City Hall.
Ongoing maintenance and inspections
Fire pump plans must be reviewed every 12 months. You must also keep a weekly log of pump tests. A licensed technician must perform a full flow test every year. Keep all records on site for three years so our by-law officers can check them if needed. Failure to maintain your pump can lead to fines under the Ontario Building Code and local fire safety by-laws.
Need help?
The Fire Prevention team can answer questions about pump requirements, plan formatting, and submission steps. Visit Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) or call 519-555-0115 during administration hours. You can also email [email protected] with your property address and a description of your system.