When Do I need a State Permit for Fire Safety? 

                                                    www.vtfiresafety.org


* All public buildings  require a State Permit from the Vermont Department of Public
   Safety; Division of Fire Safety.


1.    What is a public building? 
    
          Buildings that the public has the occasion to enter EXCEPT for owner-occupied, 
          single-family dwellings, registered home day cares, and working farms.


2.     When is a permit needed? 
            A.    New construction/ alterations / renovations/ additions or demolitions of public 
                   buildings.

            B.    Whenever a public building changes uses: 
                        Example:  a business changes from an office to retail 
                        Example:  a single family home becomes a rental 

            C.   Whenever new equipment is installed in a building 
                       Example:   installation of a new boiler 
                       Example:   installation of new fire protection such as an Egress windows, 
                       etc. 
                          
            D.   Whenever a place of assembly (which holds more than 50 people), changes
                   ownership or increases the occupant load (restaurants, churches, nursing 
                   homes, etc.  
                          
            E.    Erection of temporary structures for public use (grandstands, bleachers, tents
                   more than 1200 square feet.
    
            F.    Conducting hazardous processes.

            

You should contact the Division of Fire Safety for a complete list of situations that require a
permit or you may visit their website: www.vtfiresafety.org


A state permit is usually needed even if you have received a local permit. 
You may obtain a Fire Safety Permit Application from the Planning & Zoning Office as well.