Upper Darby Township requires permits for the installation, modification, and testing of fire protection systems.

Fire protection permits are required to ensure that systems designed to detect, control, and suppress fires are properly installed and maintained in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and applicable fire safety standards.

These systems play a critical role in protecting life, property, and public safety.

What is a Fire Protection System

Fire protection systems include equipment and systems designed to detect or suppress fires, including:

• Fire alarm systems
• Automatic sprinkler systems
• Standpipe systems
• Fire suppression systems (kitchen hoods, special hazard systems, etc.)
• Fire pumps
• Emergency communication or detection systems

When a Fire Protection Permit is Required

A fire protection permit is required for, but not limited to, the following:

• Installation of new fire alarm systems
• Installation of new sprinkler or suppression systems
• Modification or expansion of existing systems
• Replacement of system components affecting performance
• Installation of fire pumps or standpipe systems
• Changes to system layout or coverage areas
• New commercial construction requiring fire protection systems
• Change of use or occupancy requiring system upgrades

Any work involving fire protection systems regulated by the UCC requires a permit.

Who Can Apply

Fire protection permits must be obtained by qualified contractors or licensed professionals, as required by applicable codes and regulations.

All work must be performed by individuals qualified to install and certify fire protection systems.

Application Requirements

A complete fire protection permit application typically includes:

• Completed permit application form
• Detailed system plans and specifications
• Shop drawings (for alarm, sprinkler, or suppression systems)
• Equipment cut sheets and manufacturer specifications
• Hydraulic calculations (for sprinkler systems, if applicable)
• Location and layout of system components
• Any required supporting documentation

Plans must be sufficiently detailed to demonstrate compliance with applicable codes.

Plan Review and Approval

Fire protection permit applications are reviewed for compliance with:

• Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
• International Fire Code (IFC), as adopted
• Applicable NFPA standards (as referenced by code)
• Township regulations

Once plans are approved, a permit will be issued.

Work may not begin until the permit has been issued.

Inspections and Testing

Fire protection systems are subject to inspection and testing to verify proper installation and operation.

Inspections may include:

• Rough and final inspections of system installation
• Acceptance testing of fire alarm systems
• Flow testing of sprinkler systems
• Verification of system operation and coverage
• Certification and documentation review

All required inspections and tests must be completed and approved prior to system activation and final approval.

Required Documentation and Forms

Depending on the system, applicants may be required to submit:

• Fire Alarm Record of Completion
• Sprinkler Record of Completion
• Inspection and testing reports
• Certification documents

All required documentation must be completed and submitted prior to final approval.

Relationship to Fire Safety Inspections

Fire protection permits are separate from the Township’s Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Program.

• Fire protection permits apply to the installation and modification of systems
• Fire safety inspections ensure ongoing compliance and maintenance of systems

Both are required to ensure building safety.

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

(Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.)

Important Reminders

• A permit is required before installing or modifying fire protection systems
• All work must comply with applicable codes and standards
• Inspections and testing are required prior to approval
• Systems must be properly maintained after installation
• Working without a permit may result in enforcement action

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to install a fire alarm system?
Yes. Installation of fire alarm systems requires a permit.

Do I need a permit to modify an existing sprinkler system?
Yes. Any modification to fire protection systems requires a permit.

Will my system need to be tested?
Yes. Systems must be tested and approved prior to final approval.

Is this the same as a fire inspection?
No. Fire protection permits are for installation and modification, while fire inspections ensure ongoing compliance.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding fire protection permits, please contact the Buildings Division.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org

Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also report fire safety concerns through the Township One Center.

To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.