Plan Reviews & Permits

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Fire Protection Plan Review and Permit Services

The National City Fire Department reviews fire protection plans and issues permits to help ensure new construction, tenant improvements, fire protection systems, and other regulated projects comply with the California Fire Code and applicable local regulations.

Our Fire Prevention Division works closely with architects, engineers, developers, contractors, and business owners to provide an efficient review process while protecting the safety of our community.

Before You Begin

Before submitting your project, we recommend that you:

Review the Contractor Requirements for your project.
Gather all required plans and supporting documentation.
Complete the appropriate Permit Application.
Contact the Fire Prevention Division if you have questions regarding project requirements.

Permit Process

Step 1 – Schedule a Pre-Development Meeting

A pre-development meeting is recommended for:

Tenant Improvements
New Construction
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

To schedule a meeting, please call (619) 336-4553.

Step 2 – Review Contractor Requirements

Review the applicable Contractor Requirement handouts before preparing your plans. These documents help ensure your project complies with Fire Department design standards and may reduce plan review corrections.

Step 3 – Complete the Permit Application

Select and complete the Permit Application appropriate for your project.

Step 4 – Submit Your Application

Submit your completed permit application electronically via email at fire@nationalcityca.gov.

Step 5 – Submit Supporting Documents

Please provide:

Three sets of construction plans
California Contractor License
National City Business License
Complete the Credit Card Payment form

Step 6 – Pay Applicable Fees

Permit fees are assessed according to the City of National City's adopted Permit Fee Schedule.

Step 7 – Plan Review

Fire Prevention personnel will review your plans for compliance with applicable fire and life safety codes.

If revisions are required, comments will be provided for resubmittal.

Step 8 – Permit Issuance and Inspection

Once your plans are approved and all applicable fees have been paid, your permit will be issued. Fire safety inspections will then be scheduled as your project progresses.

Please do not begin work before obtaining approved plans and the required permits.

Most plan reviews are completed within 10 to 30 business days, depending on the complexity of the project.