Inspections  

Schedule an Inspection or Report a Code Violation

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 by email to Bobby Carter.

Inspection Fees, Permits & Fines

The Town of Hope Mills charges for fire inspections and permits.

2022 - 2023 Fee Schedule -Fire

Fees

Fees for fire inspections are based on the square footage of the occupancy.

Permits

All permits are obtained through the town’s inspection department.

Fines

Fines will be issued for fire code violations and are assessed on a per violation and per occurrence basis.

Scheduled Inspections

The fire marshal is responsible for conducting state mandated fire inspections and fire code enforcement in all new and existing buildings, except for 1 and 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.

Inspection Details

Type
Example
Frequency of Inspection
Hazardous
  • Auto body shop
  • Paint Booths
Annually
Institutional
  • Rest Homes
  • Nursing Homes
Annually
High Rise
  • Any building four stories or more
Annually
Assembly
  • Restaurants
  • Night Clubs
Annually
Multi-Family
  • Apartment Buildings (common areas only)
Annually
Day Cares
Annually
Industrial
  • Factories
Every two years
Educational
  • Learning Center (public schools are inspected on a biannual basis)
Every two years
Businesses
  • Offices
  • Convenience Stores
  • Specialty Shops
Every three years
Mercantile
  • Department Stores
  • Grocery Stores
Every three years
Storage
  • Mini Storage
  • Warehouse
Every three years
Religious
  • Churches
  • Synagogues
Every three years


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 six 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