Provide:
- Engineered drawings (sealed if required)
- Hydraulic calculations for sprinkler systems
- System layout plans showing:
- Piping
- Heads/nozzles
- Valves and zones
- Standpipes or hose system details (if applicable)
Fire Suppression Permits
Fire suppression systems are critical life safety systems designed to control or extinguish fires in buildings. These systems include fire sprinklers, standpipes, and specialized suppression systems (such as kitchen hood systems).
Permits and inspections help ensure these systems are properly designed and installed in accordance with applicable codes and standards.
When do you need a permit?
A permit is required to:
- Install a new fire suppression system
- Modify or expand an existing sprinkler or suppression system
- Install or alter:
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Standpipe systems
- Specialized suppressions systems (e.g., commercial kitchen systems)
- Change building use or occupancy where suppression requirements apply
Under Alberta's Safety Codes Act, permits are required before undertaking work on regulated systems to ensure compliance and safety oversight.
How to apply?
You can apply online through eApply or in person at City Hall.
Applications must include detailed technical documentation for review prior to permit issuance.
Include:
- Manufacturer specifications for:
- Sprinkler heads
- Control valves
- Detection/release components
- Design Standards used (e.g., NFPA standards)
- Building occupancy classification
- Floor area and building height
- Fire separations and construction type
- Water supply information (municipal or private)
Permit Fees
- Commercial: minimum permit fee of $250.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value
- Additional fees may apply for trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) or re-inspections
Inspections
Inspections are required at key stages of construction; typical inspections would include:
- Rough-in (before concealment of piping)
- Final inspection and acceptance testing
Additional requirements may include:
- Hydrostatic testing
- Flow testing and commissioning
- Verification of alarms and system integration
Systems must not be activated or placed into service until final approval is granted.
You must schedule inspections at least one business day in advance. Please schedule using the eInspections portal.
Safety and Code Requirements
Fire suppression system must comply with:
- National Building Code - Alberta Edition (current edition)
- Applicable NFPA standards (e.g., sprinkler and suppression design)
- Alberta Safety Codes Act and regulations
These codes govern:
- Design and installation requirements
- Water supply and system performance
- Inspections, testing, and maintenance
FAQs
Do all buildings require fire sprinklers?
Not all buildings require sprinklers, but many commercial, multi-family, and high-risk occupancies do under the Building and Fire Codes.
Can I modify an existing sprinkler system without a permit?
No. Any modification to a fire suppression system requires a permit and inspection.
Do I need engineered drawings for a sprinkler system?
Most systems require detailed design drawings and hydraulic calculations prepared by a qualified professional.
Can a general contractor install a fire suppression system?
No. Installation must be completed by qualified contractors trained in fire suppression systmes.
It is a pressure test used to confirm that sprinkler piping systems are leak-free and structurally sound.
Related Links
Contact Us
City Hall
910 4 Avenue South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0P6
Phone: 311
or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)