We are providing the following basic guidelines to assist you in the preparation of your place of business. There may be additional requirements based on the type of business and materials being stored or sold.

This guide is available for download to print and keep.

New Business Self Inspection Guide

A successful fire inspection is required in order to approve and finalize your Business License. The fee for this inspection is paid with your Business License Fees.

Places of business will be inspected when everything is in place and ready to open for business. All tenant improvements shall be completed, office equipment and furniture installed, stock placed on shelving/racks, etc.

*Please call for your Fire Inspection when your facility is completely ready to serve customers. Contact us at (760) 435-4101. We can typically schedule your inspection within 24-48 hours from the time you call.

Fire Department Information

• A permit is required to make modifications to the Fire Suppression Systems (fire sprinklers, fire alarm, hood suppression system).
• If your business is a restaurant or food service provider, the hood suppression system must meet UL300 compliance and must be serviced by a licensed contractor every 6 months. You must also have a “K” rated fire extinguisher in your kitchen with a current service tag.
• If your building has sprinklers, the system must have an annual inspection and current five-year certification by a C-16 contractor. Check with your landlord/property manager for the required reports.
• Please have a Knox box installed by the main entrance to your building or at each end of the multi-tenant strip mall to facilitate Fire Department access. See the Knox Box Standards.

General Information

• If you are handling, storing or disposing of hazardous materials such as waste oil, antifreeze, etc., you must submit the MSDS sheets and the Chemical Classification Packet. 
• If you are making modifications to the building (tenant improvements, adding high piled storage, adding a spray booth, adding a wall, etc.) contact the Building Department at (760) 435-3950 to see if a permit is required.
• If your business is a body shop, obtain the appropriate permits with the Building Department at (760) 435-3950 and APCD at (858) 650-4700. Be prepared to conduct a test with a C-16 contractor and fire inspector to confirm that the spray booth and extinguishing system is operating properly.
• If your business emits a contaminant into the air, follow the Air Pollution and Control District (APCD) guidelines (858) 650-4700.

Emergency Preparedness

Visit Ready Oceanside

• An emergency evacuation plan has been created and all employees are familiar with the meeting location.
• Procedures are in place to assist persons who are unable to use general means of egress without assistance.
• A business-continuity plan has been created for the business.
• Register with Alert San Diego for evacuation and emergency notifications.

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