(A) Definition. For the purposes of this chapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
FIXED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM. An automatic fire suppression system is a system containing a supply of an extinguishing agent that can be automatically or manually activated to discharge through a distribution system onto or into a protected hazard, equipment, process and the like. Examples of these systems include as defined in the NCBCFP.
(B) Permit required. A permit will be required to be obtained from the Fire Marshal’s office for the installation of a new fire suppression system or renovations to an existing fire suppression system.
(C) Permit issuance and fee. The permit fee will be based on the service and permit fee schedule. Once the plans are approved, then a permit will be issued to the contractor. Once the permit fee is paid, then a copy of the permit along with the approved plans will be returned to the contractor.
(D) Application and plans required. Prior to the issuance of a fire suppression system permit, plans showing the system installation or renovations, along with a permit application, shall be submitted to the Fire Marshal’s office for approval. These plans shall be shop drawings as developed by the manufacturer or installation company for that particular fire suppression system and shall be developed in complete detail. Two sets of these plans shall be submitted. One set shall be kept on file at the Fire Marshal’s office and one set will be returned to the contractor. One set of the returned drawings shall be kept at the job site. These plans shall show the location and type of all devices and equipment. The various alarm zones, wiring methods, piping methods, monitoring and other criteria shall be indicated. All systems shall meet NFPA requirements. Fire resistive and structural integrity must also be shown in detail how it will be maintained.
(E) Inspection required. It will be the responsibility of the contractor to contact the Fire Marshal’s office at least 48 hours in advance to schedule an inspection. An inspection will be required on all rough-in wiring or piping prior to any concealment by building finishes. A final inspection will be conducted once the entire system is completed and ready for operation. A check of all devices will be required. Any system utilizing pull-stations or cables with fusible links shall be tested for proper operation for the fire official. The contractor shall conduct any tests deemed necessary by the fire official to determine the system operation capabilities. It will be the responsibility of the contractor to have the necessary personnel present to conduct the test.
(F) Materials test and certification.
(1) Once the system has been deemed approved by the fire official, the contractor will be responsible for issuing to the Fire Marshal’s office a materials test and certification letter.
(2) This letter shall state that the system has been installed in accordance to the appropriate NFPA standards and North Carolina Building Codes along with amendments of the North Carolina State Building Code. The letter shall state that the system has been tested and all materials used are approved for their use and the system is in full operation.
(G) Inspection report and finalization. An inspection report will be completed after each inspection conducted on the automatic fire suppression system. A copy will be left with the contractor with the remaining copies of the inspection report filed at the Fire Marshal’s office. Once all the necessary requirements have been met for the automatic fire suppression system, the Inspector may then consider the permit complete and final and may note as such on the permit. No permit may be considered final until all requirements including receipt of the permit fee are completed.
(Ord. O-02-08, passed 6-5-2008) Penalty, see § 151.999