The Regional Emergency Services – Fire Prevention Branch is responsible for issuing the following permits and can assist you through permit applications.
| Fire alarm systems |
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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.” |
| Fireworks |
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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. |
| Hot works |
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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:
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| Installing fuel tanks |
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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. |
| Fuel tank registration |
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Alberta fuel tank registrations expired on August 31, 2020 after the dissolution of the Petroleum Tank Management Association of Alberta (PTMAA). In the RMWB, fuel tank installations will now require a Certificate of Compliance, post installation and inspection. Contact the Fire Prevention Branch at 780-792-5519. for your certificate issuance. |
| Underground tank removal |
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The removal of underground fuel storage tanks require a permit from the Fire Prevention Branch. All applicable documents requested in the permit must be submitted with the permit application. |
| Open-air fires |
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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 in User Fees, Rates and Charges. |
| Pyrotechnics |
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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:
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. |
| Commercial cooking equipment exhaust systems |
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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. |
| Special fire suppression systems |
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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:
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. |
| Water-based fire protection systems |
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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. |
Relevant Resources
| Fire safety in bars and nightclubs |
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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 |
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The National Fire Code Alberta Edition requires a Fire Safety Plan for the following:
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 Construction and demolition STANDATA. |
| Fire drill report |
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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 |
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A “Fire Watch” is a dedicated person or persons whose sole responsibility is to look for fires within an established area. Fire Watch is only intended as a short term alternative that permits continued occupancy of the facility/building. Fire watch is required during the following events:
Fire Watch is only intended as a short term alternative that permits continued occupancy of the facility/building. The immediate action of the facility/building owner, or their representative, shall arrange for corrective measures to be taken on the system(s) that are out of service. Review the Fire Watch Service guidelines for more information. A standard form for the fire watch record is included for use.
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| Fire extinguishers and emergency lighting records |
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Nearly every commercial or industrial property/business is required to be equipped with fire extinguishers and emergency lighting. These fire protection/life safety installations require on-going inspections, testing and maintenance (I.T.M.) to ensure they will perform as intended when needed. Download the ready-to-print PDF Emergency Lighting Inspection and Test Record and Fire Extinguishers Monthly Inspection Record files. You can also download the editable Excel workbook for maintaining digital records. |
Links and Documents
Codes and standards:
- National Fire Code - Alberta Edition, NFC(AE)
- National Building Code - Alberta Edition, NBC(AE)
- NFPA Codes & Standards
- UL & ULC Standards
Other materials: