The Manchester Fire Prevention Division is responsible for providing fire and life safety protection to the general public by ensuring fire code compliance and enforcement of the fire prevention laws, regulations, and existing building codes.
Fire Inspectors review engineered building plans for all life safety systems; the inspection and testing of any fire protection systems, sprinkler or detection installations, modifications, repairs, or alterations.
Inspectors work closely with the building inspector, planning board, health department, and zoning to ensure that all existing or proposed occupancies are in compliance or constructed to meet the minimum codes, regulations, and standards.
The division is also responsible for the following:
- Issuance of permits as mandated by MGL Chapter 148, 527 CMR Board of Fire Prevention Regulations, and 780 CMR which is included in the Massachusetts State Building Code.
- Conducting inspections mandated under the codes and regulations.
- Administering the residential smoke detector and carbon monoxide detection compliance law and providing supervision for all inspections conducted by the on-duty fire suppression personnel.
- Administers the state-mandated inspection program conducted by all of the on-duty fire suppression personnel for all public and private educational institutions, clinics, daycare centers and others.
- Administers, performs inspections, and issues permits for the annual flammable fuel storage permit program.
- Collaborating with for the State Fire Marshal’s Office provides safety and technical advice for all fireworks displays and blasting within the community.
- Performs inspections of restaurants and establishments that serve liquor annually.
- Investigates and mitigates complaints received from the public, other town agencies, and fire suppression personnel that may involve life safety code violations or fire hazards.
- Provides technical support for any major civic or private event planned within the community.
- Provides research and technical advice to homeowners, developers, real estate agents, and those within the business community in a concerted effort to minimize the plan review and inspection processes.