The National City Fire Department's Fire Prevention Division conducts fire safety inspections to help protect lives, property, and businesses by ensuring compliance with the California Fire Code and applicable local regulations. Our goal is to work collaboratively with business owners, contractors, and property managers to identify fire and life safety hazards, promote code compliance, and maintain a safe community.

Whether you are opening a new business, completing construction, or maintaining an existing occupancy, our inspectors are available to assist you throughout the inspection process.

Schedule a Fire Safety Inspection

Fire safety inspections are available by appointment.

Please contact the Fire Prevention Division at least 48 hours in advance to schedule an inspection.

When scheduling, please provide:

• Business or project address
• Permit number (if applicable)
• Type of inspection requested
• Contact person's name and phone number

To avoid delays, please ensure all work has been completed and is ready for inspection before requesting a final inspection.

Fire Prevention Division

Phone: (619) 336-4550

Email: fire@nationalcityca.gov

Types of Inspections

The Fire Prevention Division performs a variety of inspections, including:

• New construction inspections
• Tenant improvement inspections
• Fire alarm systems
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Fire suppression systems
• Hood suppression systems
• Building final inspections
• Pre-inspections

Before Your Inspection

To help your inspection proceed efficiently:

• Ensure all work has been completed.
• Have approved plans and permits available.
• Verify that all fire protection systems are operational.
• Ensure a responsible representative is present during the inspection.

Projects that are not ready for inspection may require a reinspection and additional fees.

Inspection Fees

Certain fire inspections are subject to fees established by the City of National City's adopted Fee Schedule. Inspection fees help support the Fire Prevention Division's programs and services, including inspections, code enforcement, and other activities that enhance public safety throughout the community.

Fire Recovery USA Billing Services

The National City Fire Department has partnered with Fire Recovery USA to administer billing and payment processing for applicable fire inspection fees.

If your inspection is subject to a fee, you may receive an invoice from Fire Recovery USA instead of directly from the City.

Fire Recovery USA is an authorized contractor working on behalf of the City of National City. Their role is to process inspection fee billing and provide customer service related to invoice payments.

Receiving an invoice from Fire Recovery USA is a normal part of the inspection process and does not indicate any violation or enforcement action.  To learn more about this transition and what to expect, please read our informational letter to business owners/property owners.   Read the Fire Inspection Program Information Letter (PDF).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did I receive an invoice from Fire Recovery USA?

The National City Fire Department contracts with Fire Recovery USA to administer billing and payment collection for applicable fire inspection fees. They are authorized to issue invoices on behalf of the City.

Is my invoice legitimate?

Yes. Fire Recovery USA is an authorized billing contractor for the National City Fire Department. If your inspection is subject to a fee under the City's adopted Fee Schedule, payment should be made according to the instructions provided on the invoice.

Why doesn't the City bill me directly?

The City partners with Fire Recovery USA to streamline the billing and payment process while allowing Fire Prevention personnel to remain focused on inspections, code enforcement, and public safety services.

Who should I contact if I have questions about my invoice?

For questions regarding your invoice or payment options, please contact Fire Recovery USA using the contact information provided on your invoice.