Policies

The following policies apply generally to any building or site (except single family or duplex dwellings). With the exception of the policies that are specific to certain occupancies or the use of hazardous materials, the policies relate to fundamental issues of access for emergency personnel and fire protection.

Compressed Gas and Cryogenic Systems Permits (PDF: 64K) When certain amounts of compressed gas and cryogenic systems are installed in the City of San Diego, installation permits are required. This policy spells out when a permit is required.

Corridors: Storage Restrictions (PDF: 96K) Storage is normally not allowed in exit corridors. This policy explains circumstances where it might be allowed.

Disrupted Service - Fire Protection Systems (PDF: 92K) When a fire protection system is out of service, a fire watch may be required. See the policy for details applicable to different occupancies and notification numbers for San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

Emergency Plan and Information (PDF: 342K) An emergency plan is required for all office buildings of two or more stories; for hotels, motels, and lodging houses; and for Group I, Division 1 and 2 facilities.

Fire Access Roadways (PDF: 293K) A fire lane is often required when buildings are located a distance from the public road. Usually this is designated when the building or complex is built. Fire lanes may also be found on streets when the road width limits access for emergency vehicles.

Flammable Liquid Cabinets (PDF: 90K) The California Fire Code spells out specifications for cabinets containing flammable liquids. This policy establishes a time from for bringing cabinets into compliance with the state code.

Flammable Containers (PDF: 65K) This policy is intended to clarify the types of containers allowed for the storage of Class I flammable liquids and the maximum allowable container size

Guaranteed Second Opinion (PDF: 60K) When a customer needs clarification or interpretation from a source other than the assigned personnel a Guaranteed Second Opinion (GSO) can be requested. The request can be for any problem, conflict, confusion or code interpretation that is the responsibility of the fire prevention bureau. This policy outlines the procedure for making that request.

Hazardous Materials Identification Signs (PDF:73K) When hazardous materials are stored in a building, signs identifying the material are required. This policy explains the types of signs and when and where a sign is required.

Hazardous materials inventory reporting (PDF: 75K) This policy establishes the requirements for hazardous materials reporting using the Fire-Rescue Department form FPB-500 ”Hazardous Materials Information” (PDF: 72K)

Illuminated Directory (PDF: 91K) This policy applies to new multiple-unit complexes and, on a case-by-case basis, to existing complexes. In large complexes, a directory is provided at the entrance to clearly indicate where each building, by address, is located. In new complexes with more than one entrance, two directories are required.

Knox Box Requirements and Procedure for Ordering (PDF: 193K) When access to a building is difficult, a KNOX Box is appropriate. It is a secured box, installed near the entrance to the building, that only the fire department has access to. The KNOX company also makes KNOX switches which allow emergency vehicle access through a gate.

Open Flame Cooking (PDF: 60K) This policy applies to open flame cooking devices, such as barbecues and grills, adjacent to structures, on patios, balconies or decks.

Premises Identification (PDF: 82K) This policy provides a standard for providing the address of new and existing buildings.