Fire Marshal Division

The OCES Fire Marshal Division is dedicated to preserving life, property, and environmental resources through education, prevention, investigation, and fire code enforcement.

The Fire Marshal Division is responsible for:

• Enforcement of the North Carolina fire code which includes fire inspections and permitting
• Public fire education and community outreach
• County fire department coordination
• Fire investigations
• Hazardous materials response
• Reviewing plans for new building construction
• SARA Title III reporting in the unincorporated areas of Orange County

The office operates during business hours for routine services, but is on call 24 hours a day. Staff works with Orange County Planning and Inspections Department to review plans for major renovations or construction of facilities subject to the provisions of the North Carolina Building code and North Carolina Fire Prevention Code.

Fire Prevention

For fire prevention safety tips check out the National Fire Protection Association Safety page.

• Fire Extinguisher information and training
• Fire Prevention Week is in October
• Fire Safety for Kids
• Smoke Alarm Facts and Questions

How We Can Help

• Provide free smoke alarms and installation to vulnerable citizens and at risk communities
• Home safety tips and courtesy home fire inspections

Inspection & Permit Information

Permits, under the authority of the North Carolina Fire Code, are applied for and issued by Orange County Fire Marshal Division. For permitting inquiry contact one of the fire marshals for application.

Planning - Building Permits and Inspections Division.

View information about building inspections.

Orange County will be switching to new permit software soon. Although the Fire Marshal Division will remain operational, some county divisions may need to shutdown their systems temporarily.

• Main Project Page
• Orange County Fee Schedule (PDF)

Common Fire Code Violations Found

The Fire Marshal Division is responsible for enforcing the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code. For applicability and inquiry to specific questions regarding enforcement or clarification please contact the fire marshal directly.

• Failure to obtain a change in use or occupancy when tenants relocate
• Failure to maintain 30 second and/or 90 minute emergency exit light maintenance check and documentation
• Failure to have the fire extinguishers inspected
• Use of non-approved extension cord
• View the complete 2018 North Carolina Fire Prevention Code
• View past North Carolina Codes