Requesting Combustible Fuel Loading or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy​

Combustible Fuel Loading

Combustible Fuel Loading includes the introduction of furnishings, decorations, electronics, or other equipment or combustibles not related to the construction itself before the completion of the permitted work.  This does not include use of the space by employees for training or use by the public.  The requirements for SMFR to issue a non-objection are as follows:

  • Work on the fire sprinkler system (where applicable) must be completed and the fire sprinkler permit must be approved and closed by the SMFR Fire Inspector, and
  • The fire alarm system (where applicable) must be completed to the point of monitoring water flow alarms from the fire sprinkler system.  A live dispatch test will be conducted by the SMFR Fire Inspector.

Temporary Certificate of Occupancy

Temporary Certificate of Occupancy includes use of the building for its approved purpose prior to the issuance of a full certificate of occupancy.  In addition to combustible fuel loading, this may include occupancy by employees for stocking and training before opening, or use of the space by the public.  The requirements for SMFR to issue a non-objection are as follows:

  • All SMFR permits related to the project must be approved and closed by the SMFR Fire Inspector, or
  • All fire protection system permits are approved and closed, and only minor punch-list items remain on any permits that are still issued.
  • Fire Watch is never an approved option in lieu of a completed fire alarm system for SMFR’s non-objection to a TCO!

Process for Requesting a Non-Objection

Neither permission for Combustible Fuel Loading nor Temporary Certificates of Occupancy (TCO) are granted directly by SMFR.  These requests may only be granted by the Building Department for the local jurisdiction where the project is located.  Before granting these requests, the Building Department will seek SMFR’s “non-objection.”  The process for requesting SMFR’s non-objection to a TCO or Combustible Fuel Loading is as follows:

  1. Requests for Combustible Fuel Loading or TCO must come from the General Contractor associated with the project in our Accela Permit Portal.
  2. Discuss the request with your SMFR Fire Inspector.  They will work with you to make sure the necessary elements are in place for a successful request.
  3. Once directed by your SMFR Fire Inspector, fill out and submit the TCO or Combustible Fuel Loading Request form.
  4. You will receive a response to your request within 2 business days.  The response will include notification to the appropriate Building Department by SMFR.