Fire Prevention

Fire Prevention and the Uniform Fire Code

The Uniform Fire Code, established under the Uniform Fire Safety Act, requires that fire‑safety features in existing buildings be maintained and that identified high‑risk occupancies be retrofitted with appropriate fire protection systems or fire‑resistive construction to protect public health and safety.

Occupancy Classification

Buildings are classified as Life Hazard Uses or Non Life Hazard Uses based on a hazard‑weighting schedule in the Fire Safety Act.

• Life Hazard Uses must be registered with the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety and are subject to stricter requirements and more frequent inspections.
• Non Life Hazard Uses follow standard inspection and maintenance schedules appropriate to their risk level.

Inspections

The Bureau inspects all Borough buildings and structures at least once a year, except owner‑occupied one‑ and two‑family dwellings. Registered Life Hazard Uses often receive more frequent inspections. Inspections:

• Verify compliance with state fire and life safety laws.
• Identify hazards so owners and tenants can correct them before they become emergencies.
• Improve safety for occupants and firefighters.

The Bureau’s goal is to provide guidance and support to help property owners and tenants meet applicable laws and local ordinances.

Fire Permits

The Uniform Fire Code requires Fire Permits for hazardous activities and many public events. Permits are occupancy‑ and event‑specific and must be obtained from the Fire Official before the activity begins.

Most Common Permits

Common permits issued in the Borough include:

• Torch use for sealing membrane roofs or paint removal.
• Open flames or flame‑producing devices at public gatherings.
• Carnivals and circuses using mobile enclosed structures.
• Fumigation or thermal insecticide fogging.
• Temporary tents and temporary structures.
• Food trucks when allowed at town events.
• Welding or cutting operations.

How to Comply

• Maintain fire protection systems, exits, and fire‑resistive features.
• Register Life Hazard Uses with the Division of Fire Safety when required.
• Obtain permits from the Fire Official well before planned activities.
• Treat inspections as opportunities to improve safety and reduce risk.