05/04/2026
Centre Fire Department – Fire Inspections and Business Safety
The Centre Fire Department wants to make sure our community clearly understands the purpose of fire inspections and why they matter for both businesses and the public.
Fire inspections are an important part of keeping people safe. Our trained fire personnel check buildings to make sure they meet basic fire safety standards. The goal is simple: find and fix potential problems before they turn into emergencies.
What We Look For During an Inspection
When we inspect a building, we focus on key safety issues such as:
● Making sure exits are clearly marked and easy to access
● Checking that fire alarms and sprinkler systems are working properly
● Ensuring safe storage of flammable or hazardous materials
● Keeping fire lanes and access points clear for emergency responders
● Making sure occupancy limits and safety codes are followed
Fire inspections also help us create pre-plans for buildings. These plans give firefighters important information they can use to respond more quickly and safely during an emergency.
Pre-plans can include details such as building layout, entry and exit points, utility shutoffs, locations of fire alarm and sprinkler systems, and any hazards inside the structure. This allows responders to make faster decisions, avoid dangerous conditions, and operate more effectively when seconds matter.
When Inspections Are Required
Fire inspections are required:
● For new construction projects
● Before a business can open (Certificate of Occupancy)
● Periodically for existing commercial buildings
A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) means a building has been inspected and meets minimum safety requirements for people to live, work, or do business inside.
Why This Matters
Operating a business without a valid Certificate of Occupancy or required fire inspection approval is a violation of city ordinance and state law. It also puts lives at risk.
Our responsibility is to protect:
● Employees
● Customers
● Property owners
● Emergency responders
Enforcement and Compliance
If a business is not in compliance, the Fire Department will take appropriate enforcement action.
This may include:
● Written notices of violations
● Follow-up inspections and possible fees
● Coordination with the city regarding business licenses
● Citations or legal action when necessary
● Orders to stop work or close a building until issues are corrected
Serious safety hazards may require immediate action.
Our Approach
Our goal is not to punish businesses. We are here to help.
We work with business owners and property managers to:
● Explain what needs to be fixed
● Provide guidance on how to correct issues
● Allow reasonable time to come into compliance whenever possible
However, when there is an immediate danger to life safety or when required approvals are not obtained, action will be taken to ensure compliance.
A Safer Community for Everyone.
By addressing fire risks early, inspections help prevent fires, reduce injuries, and protect our community.
If you have questions or need to schedule an inspection, please contact:
Centre Fire Department
Phone: 256-927-3333
Email: [email protected]
