Fire Subcode
(Fire Subcode Forms - Click Here)
For the installation, addition, or replacement of many fire protection devices (both residential and commercial properties) you will need to interact with the Westampton Township Construction Official. Although these components contain the word “fire”, permitting and oversight of these projects is not handled by the Fire Marshal’s Office. A brief overview of when you may need to file for a fire subcode or construction permit is contained below. As always, if you have any questions, you may direct them to the Fire Marshal's Office or our Construction Official’s Office at (609)267-1891. Our Construction staff is always a phone call or email away from providing you the assistance you may need. For additional information on our Constructions Official’s Office please visit their webpage at https://www.westamptonnj.gov/construction-code-enforcement-inspections
A Fire Technical Section is used for the filing of a permit to do either major or minor work involving fire protection devices. The areas that need to be filled out depend on the type of work to be done and some basic information needed to process the application.
When You Need a Fire Subcode Permit
o For the installation of any smoke or heat detector, the replacement of any heat or smoke detector with a like device does not require a permit
o For the installation of a Fire Alarm System
o For the installation of a Fire Sprinkler System
o For the installation of an Underground Storage Tank
o For the removal or abandonment of an Underground Storage Tank
o For the installation or removal of an Oil Storage Tank from a basement or structure
o For the installation or removal of a Liquid Propane Storage Tank
o For the installation of any new Fuel Fired Appliance
o For the replacement of a Fuel Fired Heating Appliance not connected to the plumbing system
o When adding to or altering your existing home
o Construction or installation of a Fireplace
Some of the Things to Look for
o The type of heat or smoke detector being installed. Make sure the device is a listed device- look for the UL label
o For the location and installation of the fire alarm system, the Inspector will make sure all the devices are labeled and are of an approved type. The Inspector will also make sure that the Central Station is approved for the type of installation
o For the location where the UST will be installed, the distance from structures and property lines and the depth of the excavation for the UST
During the Removal of a UST
o Check that the tank has been emptied and cleaned
o When the tank is removed, the Inspector will verify that the hole is clean and free from any contamination as the result of a leaking tank
o The Inspector will also check to see that all required follow-up paperwork has been submitted
For Basement Installation of Fuel Tanks
The Inspector will check the location of vent piping of the tank to heating appliances and that all of the tanks are properly labeled for their intended use.
When You Remove a Tank from a Basement
You must first remove the fuel. Then the Inspector will check that all fuel lines have been properly removed and/or capped and that the fill and vent lines have been removed and all holes are sealed from both inside and outside.
On installation and removal of a Liquid Petroleum Gas Tank (LPG) the Inspector will look for the same type of thing as with oil tanks.
With New Fuel Fired Appliances We Consider
The location and clearances to combustibles, the venting of the appliances, the combustion air requirements, the manufacturer's installation manual and a riser diagram of the vent pipe showing where it goes.
For Replacement of a Fuel Fired Appliance, We Consider
o The venting of the appliance, the combustion air requirements, the riser diagram (when re-venting) and the manufacturer's installation manual
o Chimney certification form
When Constructing a New Home, Addition, or Alteration
o Rough Fire
o Fire Stopping, and installation of HVAC Mechanical Systems and fire rated assemblies such as garage to living space walls
o In this case the Inspector will look for the location of smoke detectors, fire alarm systems, gas or oil fired appliances, a fuel storage tank, egress windows and fireplaces
During the Construction of Installation of a Fireplace
o The Inspector will verify clearances to combustibles and hearth extension details. For prefab fireplaces, we check the manufacturer's installation manual to make sure the unit is installed correctly.
o UL listed for bedroom use if installed in a bedroom.
