The Life Safety Section of the Fire Prevention Division provides a number of services for the community. These services include fire safety inspections, issuing fire code permits, and responding to citizens’ complaints. The Life Safety Section also provides copies of all documents related to the fire department that are public record. Below is a brief overview of each of these services:

Inspections

Fire inspections are conducted by inspectors of the Fire Prevention Division and by firefighters. The fire inspectors inspect large facilities, board and care homes, hospitals and schools. These inspections are done annually. The firefighters inspect a wide variety of businesses annually and inspect small businesses every three years.

The Life Safety Section coordinates all fire inspections and the "Self-Inspection Program." The Self-Inspection Program allows the small business to conduct its own fire inspection for two consecutive years by completing a self-inspection checklist. The firefighters inspect the business in the program every third year.

Permits and Fees

The Life Safety Section issues a variety of fire code permits. (See Trade Show Section for permits associated with trade shows). The Life Safety Section issues annual permits and one-time permits. Annual permits are identified during the fire inspection. Annual permits are issued for the storage or use of hazardous materials, to operate certain equipment, or for the storage of certain combustible materials. An annual fee is assessed for permits, and invoices are mailed to the business. After payment is
received, a permit is sent to the business to display or keep readily available. Permits are dated and expire in one year.

One-time permits are issued for special events and can be obtained at the Fire Prevention Division, located at 201 South Anaheim Blvd., on the Third Floor. One-time permits are issued for the following:

Fees are not charged to non-profit organizations. Proof of non-profit status may be required.

Complaints

The Life Safety Section will investigate all complaints regarding fire code violations. Complaints may remain anonymous; if a name and telephone number is provided, the fire department will report the results of the investigation to the caller. Complaints should be submitted to (714) 765-4040.

Requests for Public Records

The Life Safety section is responsible for providing copies of fire department records, excluding paramedic reports, to the public. A nominal fee is charged. The records available for review include underground storage tank records, fire inspection records, chemical disclosure information and fire investigation information. A request for records form is required to obtain copies. Requests can be faxed to (714) 765-4608. For information on underground storage tank soil remediation, contact the City of
Anaheim Utilities Department at (714) 765-4053.