Fire Prevention Bureau
Development Center Closed Due to City Response to Covid 19
Development Center Services are available only by phone. Please call 650-329-2573.
NEW - Online Permit Pre-Applications Available (for Electronic Review)
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 Online Permitting Services.
Our Mission
The mission of the Palo Alto Fire Prevention Bureau, within the city's Development Center, is to provide quality and timely development services. Our fire prevention staff performs fire plan checks, reviews, permitting, and field inspections. Our goal is to accommodate all requests for service in a time frame that meets our customer's needs.
Most Popular
- Palo Alto Fire Department Home Page
- U&O Application
- 2020 Municipal Fee Schedule (see pages 65-70)
- Palo Alto Municipal Code
- Important Notice on Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm Requirements
Find resources like the WUI Wildfire Planning Map, how to defend your house, guidelines on evacuation, and what to do if you are trapped and more on this Fire Department page.
Youth Firesetter Intervention Program Flyer
YFIP is a program targeting youth who have expressed an interest in or already have been involved in fire setting activities. Find more information and resources at the Santa Clara Fire Department YFIP webpage.
General Forms
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.
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.
Follow the link to access the citizen's accela portal. Have your permit number and a few potential dates/times ready. Inspections are scheduled on a first come first serve basis. Or use iRequest Mobile App – Download this app from your Google Play store or iTunes account to quickly view all Building or Fire permits, request single or multiple inspections, cancel or reschedule inspections and view inspection history all within a few clicks.
Fill out and submit this form to request information from the Fire Prevention Bureau.
Contractors Information
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.
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.
Special Events
Hazardous Materials
- Hazardous Materials Disclosure Statement
- Hazardous Materials Related Projects Plan Submittal Guidelines
- Hazardous Materials Storage Secondary Containment Standards
- Toxic Gas Matrix (UN-015)
- Aboveground Diesel Fuel Tanks for Emergency and Standby Power Guidelines (UN-018)
- Closure Guidelines for Aboveground HazMat Storage Facilities (UN-032)
- Closure Application for Aboveground HazMat Storage Facilities (UN-033)
- Standards for Storage and Use of Portable Liquified Petroleum Gas Outdoor Heaters (UN-048)
Electronic Submission Guide of Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP)
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
HazMat Compliance Guide for LPG tanks or containers.