Fire Prevention Bureau

A Notice Regarding the Fire Protection System Reporting Requirements
Owners or operators of facilities with fire protection systems are required under the California Fire Code to record all required inspections. Here you find information and requirements.

Fire Engine and Ladder Truck Checklist and Specifications
This checklist includes but is not limited to information the Palo Alto Fire Department may require for new commercial structures or residential developments with 3 or more units when submitting for plan review.

• Engine Turning Performance Analysis
• Ladder Truck Turning Performance Analysis
  
  

PAFD Sign Standard
Specifications for signs used for PAFD operations like FACP, Emergency Power Off, and Fire Riser Room.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
The following diagram explains the general requirements of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and shows where they should be located within residences.

Additional Resources:

• Evacuation Map
• Pre-incident Plan Guide
• Hot Work Permit Guide

Pre-applications for fire permits can be filed online through Palo Alto's Accela Citizen Access portal. The online pre-application process allows prospective fire permit applicants to submit their pre-applications and upload digital building plans and documents. Staff then review the application materials to ensure all necessary documents have been provided. The applicant will be notified once the online submittal package is considered complete and ready for the fire permit application intake phase.

To begin a pre-application and learn more head to our Online Permit Services page.

Navigate to our online permitting services portal (OPS) to pay permit fees online. Enter the permit number in the box titled "Record Number" (leaving the remainder of the fields blank). Click on "Search" at the bottom of the page. Click on "Payment". Click on "Pay Fees". Click on "Continue Application". Complete required Credit Card information.

Scheduling inspections with Accela Citizen Access (ACA) or the PA Inspection Request Mobile App (PA iRequest) Now Available!

Schedule and inspection via PA iRequest App
In accordance with the City of Palo Alto’s protocols to ensure compliance with Santa Clara County’s Public Health Order, applicants who wish to schedule inspections online with Accela Citizen Access (ACA) or the Palo Alto Inspection App (PA iRequest for iOS and Android) must  complete the “Inspection Screening Form” and email the completed form to inspectionscreeningform@cityofpaloalto.org. 

City staff will review the form and reply back with further instructions on utilizing ACA  or the PA iRequest App for scheduling of inspections. Only one completed screening form is required for each permit and is valid for all inspections required for the scope of the permit.

Schedule an inspection through OPS
Logging on or registering for an account not required to schedule an inspection via OPS

Fire Department Permit Application
Please fill out prior to submitting plans for a Fire Department Permit. Forms are available here to download or upon request at the Development Center.

Request For Information Form
Fill out and submit this form to request information from the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Electronic Submission Guide of Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP)(PDF, 237KB)
Hazardous Materials Business Plans (HMBPs) and Registration ('Short') Forms must be submitted electronically via the CERS website (cers.calepa.ca.gov). HMBP are required for any business with on-site hazardous materials. Use this step by step guide to navigate the CERS website and requirements.

Hazardous Materials Compliance Guide(PDF, 137KB)
HazMat Compliance Guide for LPG tanks or containers.

Additional Resources:

• Hazardous Materials Disclosure Statement(PDF, 129KB)
• Hazardous Materials Related Projects Plan Submittal Guidelines(PDF, 109KB)
• Hazardous Materials Storage Secondary Containment Standards(PDF, 16KB)
• Toxic Gas Matrix (UN-015)(PDF, 42KB)
• Aboveground Diesel Fuel Tanks for Emergency and Standby Power Guidelines (UN-018)(PDF, 43KB)
• Closure Guidelines for Aboveground HazMat Storage Facilities (UN-032)(PDF, 212KB)
• Closure Application for Aboveground HazMat Storage Facilities (UN-033)(PDF, 235KB)
• Standards for Storage and Use of Portable Liquified Petroleum Gas Outdoor Heaters (UN-048)(PDF, 136KB)

• Special Event Permit Application
• Special Event Checklist(PDF, 204KB)
• Standards for Outdoor Assembly Events(PDF, 413KB)