Commercial Properties

Resources and Information

1. Assembly / Exhibit Information

   Saint Paul Fire Safety Inspection wishes to assist you in complying with current fire code requirements and assure that all participants and guests at your event have an enjoyable and safe experience.

   Following are standard fire code requirements that are applicable to all events in assembly occupancies:

   1. The occupant load must be clearly posted for each assembly area of 50 people or more. (MSFC 1003.2.2.5)
   2. All exits in the building must be kept unlocked and unobstructed at all times, and must not be concealed with draping material or booths. (MSFC 1011)
   3. The travel distance within the exhibit booths or enclosures to an exit aisle shall not be greater than 20 feet.(MSFC 1008.7.5)
   4. . Draping and displays cannot obstruct standpipe connections, fire extinguishers or fire alarm pull stations located on walls. (MSFC 901.8)
   5. Draping and decorative material shall be nonflammable material or treated with a flame- retardant solution and documentation available to the Fire Inspector. Tablecloths on display tables must be flame-retardant if used near a heat source, such as cooking devices.(MSFC 805.2)
   6. SMOKING IS NOT ALLOWED except in designated areas. Non-combustible ashtrays must be provided in designated smoking areas. “NO SMOKING” signs must be posted in all other areas and frequent announcements made during the event about compliance with smoking regulations. (MSFC 310.2)
   7. Parking in designated fire lanes is prohibited. Emergency personnel must have adequate access to the facility. (MSFC 503.4)
   8. Use of fireworks is prohibited unless a permit has been issued by Saint Paul Fire Safety Inspection ( 651-266-8989). (MSFC 3308.1.1)
   9. No Class I Flammable Liquids, including gasoline, can be stored inside the building. (MSFC 3404.3.4.2)
   10. Vehicles and equipment exhibited inside the building, including gas powered snow blowers, lawn mowers, boats, and snowmobiles must have gas tanks taped or locked, batteries disconnected, and shall not be fueled in the building. Fuel in the fuel tank shall not exceed one quarter of the tank capacity or 5 gallons, whichever is less. (MSFC 314.4)
   11. Propane inside assembly occupancies shall be limited to 5-pound containers, 20 feet apart. Propane must be in approved containers, and connections must be inspected and approved. (NFPA 58)
   12. Acoustical and decorative materials, including, but not limited to cotton, hay, paper, straw, moss, bamboo, and wood chips, shall be treated with flame-retardant. (MSFC 805.1 and NFPA 705)
   13. Cooking and food warming devices shall be placed on non-combustible materials, be isolated from the public by a 4-foot space, and be limited to 288 square inches of cooking area. A noncombustible shield or barrier to protect the public from heat sources is acceptable in lieu of the space requirements. Tablecloths or draping used on tables near cooking equipment must be treated with flame-retardant and proof furnished to the Fire Inspector. (LSC 9-4.4.3(9))
   14. Booths containing cooking devices shall be provided with a fire extinguisher with a rating of not less than 2A10BC readily available for use. A K-type fire extinguisher must be provided and available for use when fat deep fryers are used. (MSFC 904.11.5, NFPA10 2-2.3 and LSC 9-4.4.3)
   15. Display of smokeless powder, black sporting powder, and small arms primers are prohibitedin assembly areas.(MSFC 3306 and NFPA495)
   16. Small arms ammunition should be displayed in sealed boxes. (MSFC 3306 and NFPA495)
   17. A fire watch may be required by the Fire Marshal at any events where it is essential for public safety. (MSFC 2416)

   OUTSIDE EVENTS - TENTS OVER 200 SQ. FT. IN AREA AND CANOPIES OVER 400 SQ. FT.

   1. Tents and canopies must be structurally stable and adequately braced and/or roped. (MSFC 2404.1)
   2. Tents and canopies must be treated with flame-retardant and proof furnished to the Fire Safety Inspector. (MSFC 2406.1 and NFPA705)
   3. . Smoking shall not be permitted in tents, canopies, and membrane structures or in adjacent areas where straw, hay, sawdust, or other combustible material is present. (MSFC 2406.5)
   4. Fireworks, open flame, and hot objects shall not be used within 100 feet of any tent canopy, or membrane structure. (MSFC 2406.7)
   5. Exits must be placed at approximately equal intervals around the perimeter of the tent or canopy. No point shall be located more than 100 feet from an exit. Exits must be unobstructed, and exit signs must be provided when the occupant load is 50 or more. MSFC 2410)
   6. Heating and cooking equipment in tents or canopies must not be within 10 feet of exits, aisles, passageways, or combustible material. Vents must be vented to outside air by flues or vents not within 12 inches of the tent or canopy material. Gas, solid, or liquid fuel burning equipment located outside must not be within 20 feet of a tent or canopy. If the 20-foot distance cannot be met, a 10-foot distance is acceptable if at least one additional exit beyond the required number of exits is provided. (MSFC 2411)
   7. Flammable or combustible liquids and LP gas shall not be stored in or within 50 feet of a tent or canopy. (MSFC 2413.2)

   GENERAL - OUTDOOR

   1. Fire extinguishers - one K-type fire extinguisher shall be located in cooking booths with deep fat fryers and one fire extinguisher with a rating of not less than 2A10BC shall be located 30 feet of any location. (MSFC 904.11.5)
   2. Fire apparatus roads must be provided and maintained free of obstruction and parking. (MSFC 503.4)
   3. Electrical equipment and installations shall comply with the electrical code. No spliced wire will be allowed. (MSFC 605)
   4. Concession stands used for cooking shall have a minimum of 10 feet of clearance on two sides and not be within 10 feet of amusement rides or devices. (MSFC 2411)
   5. Propane used at outdoor events must be in approved containers, have proper hose, connectors, and fittings, and the cylinders must be secured. LP gas cylinders 500 gallons or less in size shall maintain at least a 10 foot distance to tents and canopies. LP gas cylinders more than 500 gallons in size shall maintain at least a 25 foot distance to tents and canopies. (MFSC 2412.2.1, MSFC 2412.2, and NFPA 58)
   6. All compressed gas or air tanks must be secured. (MSFC 3003.3.3)
   7. Approved exiting from fenced enclosures.

   Assembly / Exhibit Information (519.47 KB)

2. Barbeque (BBQ) Safety

   BUILDING OWNERS/MANAGERS SHOULD DISTRIBUTE THIS TO ALL TENANTS

   City ordinances do not prohibit barbecues on balconies or decks, but apartment owners may have lease rules prohibiting them. If so, the lease rules must be followed. If barbecues are allowed in your building, certain precautions should be taken.

   Follow these simple tips to prevent fires and burns:

   • Always use an approved metal barbecue at a distance of at least 3 feet from apartment walls or anything else that can burn.
   • Use propane barbecues according to manufacturer’s instructions
   • To start coals safely, stack briquettes in the center, then pour starter fluid over the coals. Allow it to soak in, and then light the coals. Never squirt more fluid onto ignited coals. A flare-up can occur which puts you at risk of serious burns.
   • Never use gasoline to start a barbecue fire. Gasoline has one use and that is to fuel engines.
   • Smoke from barbecues may enter other apartment windows and doors creating an annoyance to your neighbors. If this happens, state law requires that you extinguish the fire.
   • Always be present while cooking. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of fires in Saint Paul.
   • Wear close-fitting sleeves while you cook. Loose clothing can catch on fires.
   • Supervise children closely while you cook. Keep them away from hot barbecues and stoves.
   • Allow coals to cool, and then store them in a covered metal container. Charcoal ashes will be hot enough to start a fire even after three days.

3. Certificate of Occupancy Fee Schedule

   DETAILS OF THE FIRE CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY PROGRAM

   RESIDENTIAL POINT SCHEDULE

   • CLASS A – Residential buildings with an average of few than five (5) points per dwelling unit shall be
     classified as a Class A – Inspected every 6 years
   • CLASS B – Residential buildings with an average of five (5) or more but less than eleven (11) points per
     dwelling unit shall be classified as Class B – Inspected every 4 years
   • CLASS C – Residential buildings with an average eleven (11) or more but less than forty (40) points per
     dwelling unit shall be classified as Class C – Inspected every 2 years
   • CLASS D – Residential buildings with an average forty (40) or more points per dwelling unit shall be
     classified as Class D – Inspected every 1 year

   **FIRE CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY INSPECTION FEES**

                                                             Residential Buildings                                                     Commercial Buildings

   1 Unit………………………………………………….$239 2 Units………………………………………………..$280 3 Units………………………………………………..$292 4 Units………………………………………………..$306 5 Units………………………………………………..$318 6 Units………………………………………………..$330 7 Units………………………………………………..$344 8 Units………………………………………………..$356 9 Units………………………………………………..$369 10 – 15 Units…………………………...……………$381 16 – 20 Units…………………………...……………$436 21 – 25 Units…………………………...……………$545 26 – 30 Units…………………………...……………$648 31 – 35 Units…………………………...……………$749 36 – 40 Units…………………………...……………$851 41 – 100 Units………………………...…………….$931 100+ Units……………………………..…………….$1099

   Occupancy Types and Inspection Schedule: A (Assembly) – Inspected every 2 years B (Business) – Inspected every 3 years E (Education) – Inspected every 3 years F (Factory) – Inspected every 3 years H (Hazardous) – Inspected every 1 year I (Institutional) – Inspected every 2 years M (Mercantile) – Inspected every 3 years S (Storage) – Inspected every 3 years Base Fee: up through 13,999 sq ft: $228 14,000 through 48,999 sq ft: $17 per 1,000 sq ft 49,000 through 117,999 sq ft: $886 118,000 and over sq. ft. maximum fee: $1048

   Please Note: These fees are applicable when the building is inspected for renewal of the Fire Certificate of
   Occupancy

   Related Fees:

   • Re-inspection Fee – 50% of the renewal fee outlined above
   • No Entry Fee - $89.00 for failing to keep a written inspection appointment

4. C of O Change of Information

   C of O Change of Ownership Fillable Form (263.27 KB)

5. Combustible Storage for Recycling

   Outside Storage

   Combustible storage in the open must be compact and orderly and not more than 20 feet in height. It must be stored at least 3 feet from any property line and must not be more than 6 feet in height when within 10 feet of a property line.

   When kept adjacent to a building, all combustible storage must be stored in approved metal or metal-lined containers equipped with tight-fitting covers.

   Commercial dumpsters that have an individual capacity of 1.5 cubic yards or more must be stored at least 5 feet from combustible walls, openings, or combustible eave lines of roofs, except when protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

   Inside Storage

   Combustible storage is permitted in approved metal or metal-lined containers with tight-fitting covers and an individual capacity of less than 1.5 cubic yards.

   NO STORAGE SHALL BE PERMITTED IN EXIT CORRIDORS OR STAIRS.

   Loose combustible storage (not in suitable bales or packages) must be stored in approved rooms or vaults constructed of non-combustible material.

   Loose combustible material of not more than 2,500 cubic feet may be stored in a detached “loose house” if suitable located and if used for no other purpose. The opening must be protected to prevent the entrance of sparks.

   Baled Combustible Storage

   Single blocks or piles must not exceed 25,000 cubic feet of material. They must be separated by aisles of 5 feet or more or by flash fire barriers.

   Materials that tend to swell when wet must be stored to allow for expansion in any direction. There must be at least a 3-foot clearance between walls and sides of piles.

   If the storage compartment is not more than 30 feet wide, an 18-inch side clearance will be sufficient, provided that at least a 5-foot center aisle is maintained.

   A clearance of at least 3 feet must be maintained between sprinkler heads and the tops of piles.

6. Confined Space Form

   The Saint Paul Department of Fire & Safety Services is attempting to identify businesses (buildings) that have confined spaces on their premises. These spaces do not need to be entered on a regular basis, but they may be entered for the following reasons:

   1. Periodic Cleaning
   2. Routine Maintenance / Repairs
   3. Upgrading / installing new internal parts
   4. Inspections

   For example, a large duct work system with sprinkler heads or smoke/flame detectors is considered a confined space, but workers would not need to enter these spaces unless (on rare occasions) a sprinkler head was tripped, broken, or needed replacing.

   AS PER OSHA STANDARDS, THESE SPACES ARE STILL TO BE CONSIDERED CONFINED SPACES

   Please enter such confined spaces on the report. We will sort them out at a later date during our prioritization phase of this project.

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   IF YOU LOCATE A CONFINED SPACE, PLEASE OBTAIN THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

   BUILDING ADDRESS: ___________________________________________

   BUSINESS NAME: ______________________________________________

   CONTACT PERSON: _____________________  PHONE#: ______________

   TYPE OF CONFINED SPACE: (Circle one)     Vat     Tank     Pit     Storage Transportation     Tunnel     bin     vessel     sewer    Other_______

   HAZARDS PRESENT: (Circle all that apply)     Liquid     Solid     Gas    Chemical     Electrical     Radioactive

   FREQUENCY OF ENTRY: (Circle One)     Daily     Weekly     Monthly    Annually     As needed     Emergency only

   PRIMARY RESCUER: (Circle One)    In-house rescue team                    Private rescue team contract             St Paul Fire

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   CONFINED SPACE RECOGNITION

   MINNESOTA OSHA RULES 5205.1010 “DEFINITIONS”

   Subpart 1. Confined Spaces: “Confined Space” is defined as a special configuration that could result in any of the following:

   • Atmospheric Condition - a condition in which a dangerous air contamination, oxygen deficiency, or oxygen enrichment may exist or develop.
   • Entry/exit access - a condition where the emergency removal of a suddenly disabled person is difficult due to the location or size of the access opening; or
   • Engulfment conditions - a condition where the risk of engulfment exists or could develop.

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   Definitions:

   • Oxygen enrichment: An atmosphere containing oxygen concentrations greater than 23% by volume.
   • Oxygen Deficient: An atmosphere containing oxygen concentrations less than 19.5% by volume.
   • Engulfment: The surrounding and effective capture of a person by finely divided particulate matter or a liquid.

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   FEDERAL OSHA REGULATION 29CFFR 1910.146

   A Confined Space is defined as a space that:

   1. Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter to perform assigned work; and
   2. Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; and
   3. Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

   Examples: Tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, vat, boilers, and pits.

   Also: Sewers, ducts, lift stations, tunnels for utilities, and the like.

   Confined Space Form (116.38 KB)

7. Elevator Key Box Requirements

   Where elevator fire service operation is available, a key box, as described below, is required to be located in the elevator lobby. If a building has more than one bank of fire service elevators, and if the elevator banks are remote from each other, then each bank must have a key box. Any exception to the location of the key box must be approved by the Fire code official.

   NOTE: The City Elevator Inspector may require a key box whether or not the elevators have fire service operation

   A key box is a tamper-resistant box in which elevator keys are placed for Fire Department emergency use. The keys provide emergency access to elevators and elevator machine rooms for fire personnel.

   In cases of fire or medical emergencies, it is vital that fire fighters and paramedics be able to gain access to elevator service in the building. For this reason, the Minnesota State Fire Code provides authority for requirement of installation of key boxes. (MSFC 506.1)

   TYPE: The key box specified for use in Saint Paul is the ECS Elevator Fire Control Key Cabinet, equipped with a 10404 Ace Lock. A list of companies that provide this key box may be found at Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s website located at http://www.dli.mn.gov or they may be ordered from www.knoxbox.com.

   Installation & Maintenance - When you buy the key box, the box door will be unlocked so that the box can be installed. For security, the box does not come with a key. When the box has been installed, and the keys clearly labeled, and someone is available at the building to meet the Fire Department, contact the Fire Department Communication Center at (651) 266-7702. A fire company will be dispatched immediately to lock the key(s) in the key box.

   Keys Required - There must be a key for the designated level switch and for each fire service elevator in the group, placed in the ECS key box. Other keys, such as elevator machine room and elevator door keys, including appropriate lunar or drop keys should also be included in this key box.

   Only elevator keys are allowed in the elevator key box. Elevator fire service keys must not be placed in the key box on the outside of the building in lieu of the elevator lobby key box.

   Keys stored in the key box must be tagged and clearly labeled as to the function of the key.

8. Fire Extinguisher Requirements

   RESIDENTIAL

   ALL APARTMENT HOUSES WITH FOUR OR MORE UNITS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH FIRE EXTINGUISHERS BY STATE LAW. The law provides TWO options for apartment house owners. Apartment house owners can choose ONE OR THE OTHER. The Fire Safety Inspection Division recommends OPTION 1 because fire extinguishers are quickly available for use and are also protected from vandalism and theft.

   OPTION 1: EXTINGUISHERS IN APARTMENT UNITS (MSFC 906)

   1. One extinguisher in each apartment with a UL rating of at least 1A10BC.
   2. The extinguisher should be mounted on the wall near the hallway door OR in the kitchen near the kitchen door.

   OPTION 2: EXTINGUISHERS IN APARTMENT HALLWAYS (MSFC 906.3)

   1. One or more extinguishers in each hallway, within 50 feet of each apartment entrance with UL rating of at least 2A10BC.
   2. The extinguisher(s) must be mounted on the wall so that the top is no more than five (5) feet above the floor. The extinguishers should be placed in cabinets to prevent theft. The cabinets cannot be locked unless each cabinet is equipped with a glass panel in each door and is provided with a striker bar that an occupant can use to break the panel.

   COMMERCIAL

   One 2A10BC portable extinguisher must be provided within each 75 feet of travel distance in low and ordinary hazard occupancies. High hazard occupancies such as vehicle repair, flammable liquid storage, etc. shall be provided with a 2A10BC extinguisher every 50 feet of travel distance. Additional extinguishers may be required in hazardous locations.

   Extinguishers must be mounted on the wall so that the top is no more than five feet above the floor and a striker bar must be provided if they are locked in a glass security cabinet. Extinguishers must be easily identified as to location and must be serviced and accessible at all times.

   HOW TO OBTAIN

   Purchase fire extinguishers from a fire extinguisher company (look under “Fire Extinguishers” in the Yellow Pages of your phone directory).

   INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

   Uniform Fire Code Standard 10-1 (NFPA 10, Chapter 4) requires the following inspection and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers:

   INSPECTION - "quick check" that a fire extinguisher is available and will operate.

   Extinguishers shall be inspected at least once per month.

   • Access to, and visibility of, the extinguisher shall not be obstructed.
   • The operating instructions on the extinguisher nameplate shall be legible and shall face outward.
   • Any seals or tamper indicators that are broken or missing shall be replaced.
   • For water types without gauges, their fullness shall be determined by "weighing."
   • Any obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzles shall be noted.
   • Pressure gauge readings when not in the operable range shall be noted.
   • Applicable corrective actions shall be taken when an inspection reveals that tampering has occurred, or that the extinguisher is damaged, impaired, leaking, under- or overcharged, or has obvious corrosion.
   • Personnel making inspections shall keep records for those extinguishers that were found to require corrective actions.
   • At least monthly, the date the inspection was performed and the initials of the person performing the inspection shall be recorded.

   MAINTENANCE - "thorough check" of fire extinguisher by a trained manufacturer certified servicer. (Check the “Yellow Pages” for vendors.)

   Extinguishers shall be subjected to maintenance not more than one year apart or when specifically indicated by an inspection.

   • Maintenance shall be a thorough examination and any necessary repair or replacement of: (a) mechanical parts, (b) extinguishing agent, and (c) means of expelling the extinguishing agent.
   • Every six years, stored pressure extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test shall be emptied and subjected to the applicable maintenance procedures.
   • Labels or tags indicating the date of maintenance, whether or not recharging was done, and the identity of the maintenance person, shall be securely attached to each extinguisher. Labels shall not be placed on the front of the extinguisher.

9. Hazard ID Placard Info

   https://www.stpaul.gov/DocumentCenter/Government/Safety%20&%20Inspections/Fire%20Prevention%20Pre-Inspection%20Handouts/firehazard.PDF

10. Hazardous Area Enclosures

    Alternative #1

    Furnace and hazardous equipment rooms that are required to be separated from common hallways and occupied areas shall be done so in the following manner: walls/ceilings must be 2" or 5/8" sheetrock on both sides of studs (existing lath and plaster can remain if in good condition). Doors must be labeled UL or FM approved one-hour fire doors if installed or replaced. Existing doors that are substantial 1 3/4" solid core or have been previously upgraded with sheet metal, Sheetrock and/or plywood, can remain but as they are replaced they must be replaced with a labeled UL or FM approved one-hour fire door. All fire doors must be self-closing and latching.

    Alternative #2

    Ceiling separation requirement may be infeasible; therefore, sprinkler heads from the domestic water supply may be a possible alternative over hazardous areas. A permit and inspection are required from the Department of Safety and Inspections for all sprinkler installations in new and existing buildings. Permits will not be issued on buildings with less than a one-inch water supply.

    The permit application will require the following:

    1. The approval for such installation from the Water Department.
    2. A plan showing the area to be covered and the location of heads.
    3. The permit fee.

    When the permit is secured, the installation shall then be made. The Inspector must be notified that installation is complete and a request for an inspection must be made. Contact the Plumbing Inspector in the Department of Safety and Inspections at (651-266-8989).

    Alternative #3

    The Water Department will not allow sprinkler heads from the domestic line if service to the building is less than one inch and will inform the owner of this in writing. If alternative #1 and #2 are infeasible, an interconnected hard-wired smoke detection system can be installed in hazardous areas, connected to a minimum of one detector at the top of each stairwell which will alarm residents should a fire occur. The hard- wired detection system shall be audible to all occupants of the building. This does not provide property protection by preventing smoke and fire from spreading in the building, but affords life safety protection to the occupants.

    Electrical work requires a permit to assure correct installation. Contact the Department of Safety and Inspection at (651-266-8989) for permit information.

11. House and Building Identification

    City of Saint Paul Regulations

    For the proper identification of all houses, buildings, and structures now existing within the City of Saint Paul, the official number shall be placed and maintained on each house, building, and structure by its owner at or near both front and rear entrances. The number must be placed in such a manner that the number may be easily and clearly seen and read during the hours of darkness as well as daylight from the public street or alley. If it is not practical to place the number at or near the building entrance, it shall be placed and maintained by the owner in such other suitable location that it can be clearly seen from the street or alley.

    Basic Specifications for House Numbers:

    The numbers must be at least four inches high The numbers must be in contrast with the building. The numbers, or the background, must be reflectorized. Non-reflectorized numbers must be illuminated at night. The numbers must be clearly seen from the street.

12. Knoxbox / Key Box Information

    In cases of fire or medical emergencies, it is vital that fire fighters and paramedics be able to gain access to buildings whether or not a caretaker is present. For this reason, the Minnesota State Fire Code provides authority to require installation of keyboxes. (MSFC 506)

    A keybox is an armored tamper-proof box in which entry keys are placed for Fire Department emergency use. The keybox also helps minimize damage to your doors in an emergency. Only the Fire Department has keys to these boxes.

    Here are the standards that must be applied when you install a keybox:

    1. TYPE -- Effective January 1, 1988, the only approved keybox specified for use in Saint Paul to assist the Fire Department in gaining access to a building will be a Knoxbox

    NOTE: Effective January 1, 2007, existing ECS Elevator Fire Control Keyboxes equipped with a 10404 Ace Lock, are no longer authorized as building security lock boxes. Existing ECS boxes shall be replaced with a Knoxbox.

    2. PURCHASE REQUIREMENTS -- The only company who distributes the Knoxbox for use in Saint Paul.

    The Knox Company 1601 W. Deer Valley Road Phoenix, AZ 85027 (623)687-2300 or 1-800-552-5669 Knoxbox.com

    3. INSTALLATION/MAINTENANCE -- When you buy the key box, the box door will be unlocked so that the box can be installed. For security, the box does not come with a key.

    The key box should be installed at the main entrance to the building. The Fire Department Alert Decal that is included with the key box must be placed in the upper right-hand corner of the entrance door where the key box is located. Additional decals must be purchased and placed on the upper right-hand corner of all building entrance doors. This will alert Fire Department personnel that a Knoxbox is on the premises.

    When the box has been installed, and the keys clearly labeled, and someone is available at the building to meet the Fire Department, contact the Communication Center at (651)266-7702. A fire company will be dispatched immediately to lock the key(s) in the key box.

13. Outdoor Food Vendor Regulations

    Following are the Fire Safety regulations for food booths/vehicles where cooking is being conducted:

    1. Provide a fire extinguisher with at least a 2A-10BC rating for each booth/vehicle. If a deep fat fryer is being used, a fire extinguisher with at least a K rating must also be provided.
    2. All propane tank installations must be secured and provided with gas shut-offs. All connections between tank and cooking equipment must be by means of either a listed/labeled L.P. gas hose or flexible flared copper tubing. NOTE: Flexible L.P. gas hose may be prohibited where a distinct hazard is determined to exist by the Fire Inspector due to the location of the hose. An L.P. gas permit is required for all installations. Contact DSI at (651) 266-8989 for permits. L.P. gas inspections will be done by Fire Safety Inspector.
    3. Maintain at least three feet of clearance between cooking equipment and combustibles
    4. All pressurized cylinders must be secured in the upright position to prevent tipping
    5. Electrical cords shall be in good condition without splices, deterioration, or damage.

    Please distribute this information to vendors who will be cooking in their booth/vehicle. An inspection may or may not be conducted by the Saint Paul Fire Safety Inspection Division. Organizers are responsible for insuring compliance with these regulations. Contact DSI at (651) 266-8989 if you have any questions. Thank you for your cooperation

14. Pre-Inspection Checklist

    Pre-Inspection Checklist (119.54 KB)

15. School Fire Alarm Evacuation Procedures

    EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

    If you see a fire or smoke, or if the fire alarm sounds: Immediately pull the fire alarm if it has not already sounded. Go to a safe location and call 911. Give name, address, and details of fire emergency. When the fire alarm sounded, all students and staffs are to immediately evacuate the building.

    EVACUATION PROCEDURES

    • Elevators are not to be used during a fire alarm use the stairs.
    • Follow designated exit routes which are posted in each classroom.
    • If the designated exit way is blocked, go to the nearest available exit.
    • If the alarm sounds between classes, use the nearest available exit.
    • The last person out of the room shall verify that the room is empty and close the door
    • Go to the predetermined location outside the building. Evacuation distance is a minimum of 100 feet from the building

    ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

    • The fire alarm system is not to be silenced unless approved by the Fire Department
    • Teachers should stress to students that evacuations are to be conducted in a brisk, quiet, and orderly manner.
    • Notify fire fighters immediately if anyone is unaccounted for and advise of their likely location if thought to be in the building.
    • Designate a school official to meet the arriving fire fighters and provide them with a copy of the building floor plan, keys to the building, and location of fire
    • Students and staff are not to reenter the building until fire officials give their approval.
    • Each school must have an evacuation plan for mobility-impaired students and staff which have been approved by the Fire Department.

    The above standard elements must be included in all school fire evacuation plans. Individual schools may make additions to the plan to meet specific needs of their school with the approval of the district and the Fire Department.

16. Self-Closing and Deadbolt Doors

    APARTMENT DOORS

    Apartment doors required to be self-closing, must be equipped with UL or FM approved spring-loaded hinges or hydraulic self-closers. They must be maintained in operable condition. Please check with the Inspector to make sure you are installing approved closers.

    DEAD BOLT LOCK DEFINITION

    34.09(3)(i) - Every entry door to a dwelling unit or to a rooming unit which is not a guest room shall be provided with a dead bolt lock as defined in Section 34.07. Each guest room entry door shall be provided with a locking mechanism. DEFINITION OF DEAD BOLT LOCK: Dead bolt lock is a locking bolt which is activated by knob, handle or other similar device on the interior, and which is capable of being locked from the exterior. Such bolt shall have a minimum projection of one inch (25mm). Metal strikes shall be required for all locking devices and shall have a minimum thickness of .062 inches (1.5mm) and mounted with a minimum of two (2) No. 8 size screws or equivalent.

17. Stairway Identification

    PURPOSE

    The purpose of this requirement is to provide information to the occupants and fire department personnel to ensure that they do not become confused during emergencies, by requiring that standardized signs be installed in stairways to inform the user which stair landing he/she is on and the upper and lower termination of the stairway.

    SCOPE

    The provisions of this section shall apply to new and existing buildings four or more stories in height.

    SIGN

    1. The sign shall be a minimum 12 inches by 12 inches
    2. The stairway location shall be placed at the top of the sign in 1-inch-high block lettering with ¼-inch stroke (“stair No. 1” or “west stair”).
    3. The stairway’s upper terminus shall be placed under the stairway identification in 1inch-high block lettering with the ¼-inch stroke (“roofing access” or “no roof access”).
    4. The floor level number shall be placed in the middle of the sign in 5-inch-high lettering with ¾ inch stroke. The mezzanine levels shall have the letter “M” preceding the floor number. Basement levels shall have the letter “B” preceding the floor number
    5. The lower and upper terminus of the stairway shall be placed under the floor level number in 1-inch-high block lettering with ¼-inch stroke.
    6. The level of exit discharge shall be placed at the bottom of the sign in 1-inch-high block lettering with ¼-inch stroke
    7. These signs shall be maintained in an approved manner

    

    NOTE: If there is a roof access which is kept locked, provide a sign meeting above specifications that reads “Roof Access Locked.”