Fire Codes and Permits

The National Fire Code, Alberta Edition requires that fire alarm systems are inspected and tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S536, “Standard for Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems.”

• Fire alarm permit

To fire or set off fireworks within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo a fireworks permit is required.

Setting off fireworks within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is restricted by ‎Fireworks Bylaw No. 19/015.

A hot works permit is required for the hot works noted below outside of a work area specifically dedicated and approved to be used for such activity. Hot works must conform to CSA W117.2 Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes.

The following conditions apply to permits issued for the conduct of hot works, involving open flames or production of heat or sparks, including, without being limited to:

• cutting
• welding
• soldering
• brazing
• grinding
• adhesive bonding
• thermal spraying
• pipe bonding

All fuel storage tanks shall comply with the National Fire Code, Alberta Edition. Do not install or alter a fuel storage tank system unless approved by the Fire Prevention branch.

Fuel storage tanks require a permit from the Fire Prevention branch prior to installation. All applicable documents requested in the permit must be submitted with the permit application.

An open-air fire refers to any fire not contained within a building or structure, but does not include industrial flare stacks, natural gas flare stacks, or similarly controlled open flames. Open air fires require a permit and operate in accordance to Bylaw No. 01/084. Fees related to open-air fire permits can be found on the User Fees, Rates and Charges list.

A pyrotechnic event permit can be obtained at the Fire Prevention branch. Please ensure event plans and permit applications are submitted at least 14 days prior to the event.

This plan will include:

• Full name, date of birth, and qualifications of the person who will be responsible for discharging the pyrotechnics.
• Site diagram showing the location of proposed devices in relation to operators, audience, performers (if applicable), support personnel (if applicable) and any related structure.
• A legible copy of the ERC Certificate is required, including expiry date, name and address of company.
• Locations of effects will be clearly shown on maps. Proper clearance between guests and sets / scenery will be maintained.
• The name and contact person of the group or company holding the event or show.
• If display is not occurring on land owned by the group conducting the show, written permission to use the respective property will be required.
• Names and qualifications of assistants required.
• A manifest of fireworks / pyrotechnics being used in display is required (MSDS to be included).
• Detailed information concerning manner of transportation and manner and location of storage of pyrotechnic equipment is required.
• The Fire Prevention Branch reserves the right to request a live demonstration prior to approval to evaluate the display.
• Proof of liability / third party insurance will be required with permit application.

If deemed necessary, Fire Prevention personnel will attend pyrotechnic displays. The Fire Prevention branch has the authority to stop the display should it be deemed unsafe.

The National Fire Code, Alberta Edition requires that commercial cooking equipment exhaust systems are in conformance with NFPA 96: “Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations.”

A valid permit is required before any work is done on a restaurant exhaust system. Businesses must complete the commercial cooking equipment exhaust systems package and submit it to the Fire Prevention Branch for review and processing.

The National Fire Code, Alberta Edition requires the design and installation of a special fire suppression system to conform to one of the following standards:

• NFPA 11, Low-, Medium-, and High-Expansion Foam
• NFPA 12, Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 12A, Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 12B, Halon 1211 Fire Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 17, Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 17A, Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 15, Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection
• NFPA 16, Installation of Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water Spray Systems
• NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems
• NFPA 18, Wetting Agents

A valid permit is required before any work is done on a special fire suppression system. Businesses must complete the fire suppression permit package and submit it to the Fire Prevention branch for review and processing.

The National Fire Code, Alberta Edition requires that water-based fire protection systems are in conformance with NFPA 25, “Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems.”

A valid permit is required before any work is done on water-based fire protection systems. Businesses must complete the water-based fire protection systems package and submit it to the Fire Prevention branch for review and processing.

The following is a standard guide for managers and owners of event venues, bars and nightclubs in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This guide introduces and explains the Fire Safety in Bars and Nightclubs program. Please follow this guide carefully, as it will be used as an inspection reference by the Fire Prevention Branch.

Fire safety plans

The National Fire Code Alberta Edition requires a Fire Safety Plan for the following:

• Every building containing an assembly, care, treatment or detention occupancy.
• Every building with a fire alarm system.
• Demolition and construction sites.
• Storage areas for combustible products and dangerous goods.
• Areas where flammable liquids or combustible liquids are stored or handled.
• Areas where hazardous processes or operations occur.

The implementation of the Fire Safety Plan helps to ensure effective utilization of life safety features in a building to protect people from fire. The required plan should be designed to suit the resources of each individual building or complex of buildings. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that the information contained within the fire safety plan is accurate and complete.

Supervisory staff shall be trained in the fire emergency procedures described in the plan and provide a copy before they are given any responsibility for fire safety.

The plan shall be reviewed at intervals no greater than 12 months to ensure that it takes account of changes in the use and other characteristics of the building.

Should you have any questions or concerns contact the Fire Prevention Branch at 780-792-5519.

Download the Fire safety plan template.
Download the Fire safety plan for construction and demolition sites.

Download the Construction and demolition STRANDATA. 

Fire drill report

Fire drills are critical for ensuring the safety of the staff, students, residents and clientele that enter your business, building or property. Practicing fire drills will help ensure individuals have the knowledge to safety escape a fire without injuring themselves or others.

The National Fire Code Alberta Edition mandates the frequency and procedures for fire drills. Results of fire drills must also be recorded and kept onsite along with your Fire Safety Plan. 

Review the Fire drill procedures information sheet.
Download the Fire drill report.

Fire watch information 

A “Fire Watch” is a dedicated person or persons whose sole responsibility is to look for fires within an established area. Fire watch is required during the following events:

• Temporary failure or shut down of fire safety equipment
• Where activities require the interruption of any fire detection, suppression or alarm system component
• Where activities increase the risk of fire such as Hot Works

Responsibilities and duties include:

• Be familiar with the building and procedures for sounding an alarm in the event of a fire
• Watch out for fire hazards in the workplace while work is performed by other employees
• Maintain the conditions and requirements stated on the Hot Works permit
• Keep flammable materials from ignition sources
• In the event of a fire, extinguish it immediately or activate the fire alarm
• Call 911
• Stop operations if you find any hazardous condition
• Never leave the job site while the work is being done unless another Fire Watch replaces you
• When all operations are done, do not leave the worksite unless you’re sure that there are no hot sparks, burning embers and other fire hazards unless another Fire Watch or fire monitor is assigned

A sufficient number of Fire Watch shall be assigned to make at least one complete patrol of the affected area every 15 minutes. Fire Watch patrols shall be recorded and made available upon request by a Fire Safety Codes Officer.