Preparing for San Bernardino County Annual Fire Inspections

Preparing for San Bernardino County Annual Fire Inspections

1. Understand What’s Being Inspected

The San Bernardino County Fire Department conducts Annual Fire Inspections for high-risk buildings—including businesses, schools, places of assembly, care facilities, and others with increased fire safety concerns. Lower-hazard properties may be inspected by engine company staff rather than Fire Prevention Officers. The inspections follow the 2016 California Fire Code and other relevant standards.

2. Review Applicable Codes & Standards

Familiarize yourself with the California Fire Code and local fire standards. Knowing these codes helps you proactively address issues and avoid noncompliance during inspection.

3. Perform a Pre-Inspection Self-Check

Though there isn't a published checklist from the County, you can follow a widely referenced framework like this one from Allegiant Fire Protection:

• Access & Exit.
• Ensure the building address is visible from the street.
• Keep entrances and exits clear and accessible.
• Maintain adequate clearance for fire hydrants and pathways.
• Means of Egress & Emergency Lighting
• Exit doors must open easily from the inside without keys.
• Fire doors should self-close, with exit routes well-lit.
• Emergency lighting and exit signs must be functional with tested backups.
• Electrical Safety.
• Label all circuits on control panels.
• Maintain a 30-inch clear space in front of electrical panels.
• Use extension cords only temporarily and ensure fixtures have proper cover plates.
• Fire Extinguishers.
• Should be installed within 75 feet of every area, visible and accessible.
• Must meet the minimum rating, mounted at the correct height, and tagged for inspection within the past 12 months.
• Fire Alarm & Sprinkler Systems.
• Provide documentation for annual testing of fire alarms and sprinklers.
• Ensure storage remains at least 18 inches below sprinkler heads.
• General Hazards.
• Keep trash removed daily, and store oily/combustible materials safely.
• Limit portable heaters to areas with clearances of at least 36 inches.
• Secure gas tanks and ensure decorations meet code.

• Smoke & CO Alarms.

Verify that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning and within their operational lifespan.

4. Ensure Documentation is Ready

Keep all documentation organized and accessible. This includes:

• Records of alarm and sprinkler system tests
  
• Tags or certificates for fire extinguishers
  
• Plans and layouts, if modifications were made
• Even though this isn't strictly outlined for annual inspections, documentation is an important component of compliance.

5. Facilitate Inspector Access

Make sure the inspector can safely access all required areas:

• Keep pathways clear

• Ensure lighting is adequate

• Permit inspections during regular business hours—most County services operate Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

6. Use Inspections as Learning Opportunities

Inspectors may provide you with an evaluation: "Pass," "Pass with Corrections," or "Fail." If corrections are needed, make sure to document and implement them promptly.

7. Stay Proactive Year-Round

• Schedule biannual gutter and roof debris clearing (especially wildland interface areas) to support defensible space and reduce fire risk.
  

• Consider requesting a free assessment from your local fire station through the “Ready! Set! Go!” program for personalized fire safety guidance.