Burlington Fire Marshal – Burlington, VT

Office of the City Fire Marshal

The Office of the City Fire Marshal is the fire prevention and code enforcement division of the Burlington Fire Department. Located at the Central Fire Station at 132 North Avenue, this office is dedicated to reducing the risk of fire and protecting the lives and property of Burlington residents through engineering, education, and enforcement. The Fire Marshal’s team works closely with developers, business owners, and contractors to ensure that all buildings within the city comply with local and state fire safety codes, including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

Permits and Inspections

The office oversees the issuance of permits for the installation and modification of fire protection systems. Contractors must submit applications and plans for review before commencing work. The Fire Marshal’s staff conducts rigorous plan reviews and on-site acceptance testing for:

• Fire Alarm Systems: Ensuring proper detection and notification capabilities.
• Sprinkler Systems: Verifying hydraulic calculations and coverage.
• Commercial Kitchen Hoods: Inspecting suppression systems in restaurants.
• Tent Permits: Regulating temporary structures for public events.

Fire Investigation

In addition to prevention, the Fire Marshal is responsible for fire investigation. The office investigates the origin and cause of all fires that occur within the city limits. If a fire is determined to be suspicious, the office collaborates with the Burlington Police Department and the Vermont State Police Fire Investigation Unit to pursue arson cases. This data is used to identify trends and improve future safety protocols.

Visit and Payment Information

The Fire Marshal’s Office operates primarily by appointment. Contractors and residents wishing to meet with staff regarding plans or inspections should call ahead to schedule a time. While many permit applications are now processed through the city’s online OpenGov portal, payments for certain fees are restricted. The office typically accepts checks or money orders made payable to the Burlington Fire Department; cash and credit cards may not be accepted directly at this office location.