Visit Harris County’s Knox Box Website to Purchase a Lock.
Learn MoreInspection Requests
The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office provides comprehensive fire and life safety inspections that help protect your business and the people who depend on it. Our certified inspectors conduct thorough evaluations of fire protection systems, emergency exits, electrical systems, and hazardous materials storage to ensure compliance with all state and local fire codes. By scheduling regular inspections, you can avoid costly violations, maintain a safe environment for employees and customers, and potentially reduce your insurance premiums. Our experienced team works efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations while providing detailed guidance on any necessary improvements. Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office today to schedule an inspection and take a proactive step toward fire safety and code compliance.
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Final Inspections
To comply with the Harris County Fire Code, anyone who has received a permit for construction, improvement, enlargement, alteration, repair, relocation, change of ownership, change of occupancy, erection, installation, conversion, or replacement of a building or structure must complete a final inspection before the property can be occupied. This inspection is essential to ensure the safety and integrity of the property in line with established regulations.
Specialty Inspections
Preliminary
Walk-through inspections conducted before requesting a final inspection, after a building permit has been purchased through Harris County Engineering Department. These inspections help ensure that construction or renovation work is progressing according to code and safety standards before the final inspection. They provide an opportunity to identify any issues early, allowing for corrections to be made before the project is completed.
After Hours
Inspections scheduled outside of standard business hours, typically in the evenings or on weekends. These inspections are subject to prior approval before submission. The approval process ensures that resources, such as inspectors, are available, and that the inspection can be conducted safely and effectively outside normal working hours.
Construction Meetings
At the request of stakeholder(s) HCFMO will attend or facilitate meetings.
Fire Sprinklers Pre-Cover
Pre-Cover Inspection Requirements for Fire Sprinkler Systems.
Occupancy Load Evaluation
The process of determining the maximum number of individuals that can safely occupy a given space based on factors like the size of the area, its intended use, and safety requirements. It involves calculating the available floor space per person, considering elements such as exits, fire safety measures, and the type of activities or functions the space is intended to support.
Regulatory Inspections
Regulatory inspections are mandatory checks conducted under the regulations set by Harris County. These inspections are required before submitting an initial or renewal application for certain permits. Specifically, current County regulations mandate a Fire Marshal inspection for the following types of businesses: Game Rooms, Sexually Oriented Businesses, and Boarding Homes.
Boarding Homes
Game Room
Sexually Oriented Business
Salvage/Scrap Yards
Operational Permits
Operational permits are required for businesses under the 2021 International Fire Code, Section 105, as adopted by Harris County. Business owners must submit an electronic application and upload required documents. Some permits may require an inspection by the Fire Marshal’s Office. The process includes providing business details, describing the operation, and selecting the appropriate permit type. Multiple permits may be needed for certain businesses. Once approved, the permit will be issued with details on duration and renewal. Additional information may be requested before approval.
Annual Inspections
- Day Care Center
- Residential Treatment
- Massage Establishment
- Vocational Schools
- Outpatient Facility
- Foster Group Home/ Foster Home
- Hospital or Nursing Home
- Adult Care Facility
KNOX BOX
Learn about how to purchase a Knox Box
The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office only inspects facilities located within Harris County and outside any city limits.
Verify Jurisdiction
The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office only inspects facilities located within Harris County and outside any city limits. The address is in unincorporated Harris County and the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office is your fire and life safety contact if the “Law Juris.” column contains “Sheriff.”
How to Obtain a Knox Box
The Knox Box® system provides emergency responders with secure, rapid access to buildings during emergencies. As part of the updated process, Knox Locks are now obtained directly through the Knox Box website.
