Rejected and Delayed Plans: Fire Protection or Hazardous Material Systems

What causes these plans to be rejected or delayed?

• Technical data (cut sheets) not submitted which describes in detail the information from the manufacturer concerning equipment utilized in the system.


• Complete scope of work not supplied. What causes the alteration of the existing fire protection or hazardous materials system?


• Calculations not supplied for fire sprinkler water needs, site fire flow from fire hydrants and/or battery needs for fire alarms.


• Not referring to the Public Facilities Manual for detailed information required by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (SFPC).


• Not having a working knowledge of the applicable building and the fire code requirements related to the alteration work being conducted.


• Not requesting required field acceptance testing when necessary to allow the Fire Department to inspect and sign off on the alteration work.


• Inaccurate or incomplete or wrong drawings submitted.


• Lack of coordination and follow through between the general contractor, fire protection system sub-contractor, site engineer and architect identifying the need for a fire protection system.


• Occupancy type (use of the property) changes which trigger increased fire protection.


• Structures are built to the minimum building code requirements and the new use exceeds the minimum building code requirements.

Contacts – for questions & further assistance

• Contact Plans Examiner at 757-382-6018, or
• Visit Department of Development & Permits and consult with one of our Plans Examiners located on the 2nd floor of City Hall. Hours of operations are Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.