The fire marshal is responsible for conducting state mandated fire inspections and fire code enforcement in all new and existing buildings, except for 1 & 2 family dwellings. On July 1, 1991, North Carolina adopted the state “Fire Code” and state legislation enacted a mandatory inspection schedule. This schedule governs the frequency of inspections based on occupancy classifications.
Inspections conducted every year:
- Hazardous Example - Auto Body Shop / Paint Booths
- Institutional Example – Rest Homes / Nursing Homes
- High Rise Example – Any building 4-stories or more
- Assembly Example – Restaurants / Night Clubs
- Multi-Family Example – Apartment Buildings (common areas only)
- Day Cares
Inspections conducted every 2-years:
* Industrial Example – Factories
* Educational Example – Learning Center
(public schools are inspcted on a bi-annual basis)
Inspections conducted every 3-years:
* Businesses Example – Offices / Convenience Stores / Specialty Shops
* Mercantile Example – Department Stores / Grocery Stores
* Storage Example – Mini Storage / Warehouse
* Religous Example - Churches & Synagogues
Inspection Fees, Permits and Fines
The Town of Hope Mills charges for fire inspections and permits. Fees for fire inspections are based on the square footage of the occupancy. All permits are obtained through the town’s inspection department. Fines will be issued for fire code violations and are assessed on a per violation and per occurrence basis.
Commonly Observed Fire Code Violations:
- Failure to have fire extinguishers serviced annually.
- Failure to have automatic fire protection systems (Sprinkler Systems and Fire Alarm Systems) serviced annually.
- Hood Suppression Systems not serviced (must be serviced every 6-months)
- Improper use of extension cords.
- Inoperative exit signs and emergency lighting.
- Improper locking devices on required exits.
- Blocked or locked fire exits.
- Poor housekeeping and storage practices.
Anyone needing to schedule a fire inspection, report a possible fire code violation or having questions about the Fire Code are encouraged to contact the fire marshal at (910) 424-0948 ext. 3397 or e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it