Idaho fire code
Idaho's building fire code is the International Fire Code, put in place through Idaho Code 41-253. Own or manage a building and not sure which rules apply to it? Call us today to talk through what Idaho requires and what to do first.
Code in force: International Fire Code under IDAPA 18.08.01. Enforced by: Idaho State Fire Marshal. Your local fire marshal can add rules, so check with that office too.
- code edition used on state inspection checklists 2018 International Fire Code
- state law adopting the fire code Idaho Code 41-253
- state office enforcing code and sprinkler rules Idaho State Fire Marshal
- state rule for fire sprinkler contractors IDAPA Rule 18.08.02
Asking about a house? For a house or duplex, smoke alarm and sprinkler rules usually come from the residential building code (the IRC) instead, so ask your local building department.
What does Idaho's fire code ask of you?
The International Fire Code is Idaho's minimum statewide standard for protecting against fire and explosions. It is carried out through IDAPA 18.08.01, which takes on Appendices B, C, D, E, and F.
The fire chief in your area can administer and enforce the code, and the State Fire Marshal also has enforcement duties. Some rules, like operational permits and portable fire extinguishers, apply only if your local fire authority requires them.
Under Idaho Code 39-4116(3), homes for 1 or 2 families do not need sprinklers. The state rule also limits a single driveway to serving 5 one-family houses.
Idaho State Fire Marshal
Sitting within the Department of Insurance, the Idaho State Fire Marshal is legally charged with overseeing the fire sprinkler industry. This office also trains and certifies local officials who apply the statewide fire code.
Its enforcement powers and duties come from Idaho Code 41-254. After inspecting a building, the office has authority to require that a hazard be fixed or removed. If a local decision doesn't seem right to you, Idaho law gives you a way to appeal it.
You can also get inspection checklists from the office, designed around the 2018 International Fire Code. Fire departments in each town may use them as written or adapt them.
Got a notice from the fire marshal or your fire chief? Call us now. We'll read it with you and help you fix the problem before it can turn into a misdemeanor.
Penalties for fire code violations
If a violation remains unresolved after written notice, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. Call us if you've received a notice and want help deciding what to do next.
When licensed sprinkler contractors act within their license, IDAPA 18.08.02 applies to them instead of those penalty rules.
Idaho fire sprinkler contractor license
IDAPA 18.08.02 governs sprinkler work across Idaho. The license spans underground piping that starts at the water main, plus new installs, renovations, tenant build-outs, inspections, and upkeep. A separate Fire Protection Sprinkler Fitters License exists too, and public licensee lists are available for both.
There are two paths to qualifying as a contractor. One is passing the state exam with proof of 200 heads or more across 4 separate systems. The other is holding NICET III in Water-Based Systems.
| License item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Fee to apply | $400 |
| Bond, with the State Fire Marshal as obligee | $2,000 |
| Processing time, typically | 3 weeks |
| Liability insurance | Proof of coverage naming the State Fire Marshal's Office as certificate holder |
Plans for sprinklers go in by email. Once approved and stamped, copies go to the contractor, your local fire department, and also the Idaho Survey and Rating Bureau.
Check the public list and request the insurance certificate before hiring. Need sprinkler work done? Call us about the project and the Idaho license requirements.
Local permits in Idaho Falls
Individual cities may layer on extra steps. In Idaho Falls, installing or modifying systems for fire suppression, alarms, commercial cooking, or fire pumps calls for a Fire Code Construction Permit. Routine maintenance is exempt.
Reviewing a sprinkler plan there costs $140, with $2.25 added for each head. The city also issues a Life Safety License, which runs from January 1 to December 31. And since October 1, 2014, all inspection, testing, and maintenance reports must go through The Compliance Engine.
Not sure what Idaho Falls requires for your building? Call us and we can help.
Setting up a building inspection
- Call us today. We'll walk you through which Idaho fire rules apply to your building and what to do first.
- Look up your sprinkler contractor on the state list and request a copy of the insurance certificate.
- Book the inspection. In Idaho Falls, your contractor must file the report through The Compliance Engine, and we can help you check what your own town expects.