The Upper Darby Township Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I), in coordination with the Upper Darby Township Fire Department, administers the Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Program to ensure that all commercial buildings are maintained in a safe condition and comply with applicable fire safety regulations.

Fire safety and prevention are among the Township’s highest priorities. This program is designed to identify potential hazards, ensure compliance with fire codes, and reduce the risk of fire-related injuries, property damage, and loss of life.

Pursuant to Upper Darby Township Ordinance No. 3096, Section 705, commercial properties are required to undergo periodic fire safety inspections.

Purpose of the Fire Safety Inspection Program

The Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Program is intended to:

• Ensure compliance with applicable fire safety codes and regulations
• Identify and correct fire hazards before they become dangerous conditions
• Verify that fire protection systems are properly installed and maintained
• Promote safe occupancy of commercial buildings
• Protect business owners, employees, customers, and the public

These inspections are a critical component of maintaining safe buildings throughout Upper Darby Township.

What to Expect During an Inspection

Fire safety inspections are conducted by the Upper Darby Township Fire Department.

Inspections may be unannounced and will evaluate conditions including, but not limited to:

• Fire alarm systems
• Fire extinguishers
• Sprinkler and fire suppression systems (if applicable)
• Means of egress (exits, exit access, and exit discharge)
• Emergency lighting and exit signage
• Electrical safety conditions
• Storage of combustible or hazardous materials
• General fire safety and housekeeping conditions

Property owners and business operators are expected to maintain their premises in compliance at all times.

Common Fire Code Violations

The following are commonly observed issues during inspections:

• Blocked or obstructed exits
• Missing or non-functioning exit signs or emergency lighting
• Expired or missing fire extinguishers
• Improper storage of flammable materials
• Overloaded electrical outlets or unsafe wiring
• Fire alarm or sprinkler systems not maintained or inspected
• Accumulation of combustible materials

Correcting these issues proactively can help avoid violations and improve overall safety.

Inspection Requirements

All commercial properties within Upper Darby Township are subject to fire safety inspections in accordance with Township regulations.

Property owners and business operators are responsible for:

• Maintaining fire protection systems in working order
• Ensuring safe egress from the building at all times
• Keeping exits clear and accessible
• Complying with all applicable fire and safety codes
• Correcting violations within required timeframes

Fire Inspection Fees

Fire inspection fees are established in accordance with Upper Darby Township Ordinance No. 3118.

Commercial Property less than 1,000 square feet
$150.00

Commercial Property between 1,000 and 2,000 square feet
$250.00

Commercial Property 2,001 square feet or greater
$250.00 for the first 5,000 square feet, plus $25.00 for each additional 1,000 square feet

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

Application and Payment

Applications for the Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Program may be submitted directly to Licenses & Inspections, via email or via U.S. mail.

Apply and Pay Online

Upper Darby Fire Safety Inspection Payment Link

Apply by Mail

Download and complete the application form:

Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Application

(Please follow all instructions included with the application form.)

Once a completed application and payment are received, Upper Darby L&I will review and coordinate with the Upper Darby Township Fire Department to conduct an inspection.

Compliance and Enforcement

If violations are identified during an inspection:

• A notice of violation will be issued
• A timeframe will be provided for correction
• A reinspection may be required

Failure to correct violations may result in enforcement action, including fines or additional penalties as permitted by Township ordinances.

Contact Information

For questions regarding the Commercial Fire Safety Inspection Program:

Upper Darby Department of Licenses & Inspections
Phone: 610-734-7613

Upper Darby Township Fire Department
Phone: 610-734-7673

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.