Protecting Residents Through Prevention

The National City Fire Department conducts annual Fire and Life Safety Inspections of qualifying multifamily residential properties to help protect residents, reduce fire hazards, and ensure compliance with California fire and life safety regulations.

Our goal is to work collaboratively with apartment owners, condominium associations, and property managers to identify hazards before they become emergencies and maintain safe living environments throughout our community.

Why Are Residential Inspections Required?

California law requires local fire departments to conduct annual inspections of qualifying multifamily residential properties to verify compliance with fire and life safety requirements. These inspections help ensure that critical fire protection features remain operational and that residents have safe means of escape during an emergency.

What Is Inspected?

Fire inspectors may evaluate items such as:

• Fire alarm systems
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Portable fire extinguishers
• Exit corridors and exit doors
• Emergency lighting and exit signs
• Fire Department access
• Building address visibility
• Electrical and fire hazards in common areas
• General housekeeping affecting life safety

Inspection Process

1. The property owner or manager is notified of the upcoming inspection.
2. The Fire Prevention Division coordinates access to the property.
3. Fire inspectors conduct the inspection of common areas and applicable life safety systems.
4. If deficiencies are identified, a report will be provided along with corrective actions and a timeframe for compliance.

Residential Inspection Fees

Residential Fire/Life Safety Inspection Fee Information Letter explains the City of National City's adopted Fee Schedule and are assessed through the annual residential rental licensing process.  These fees help support the Fire Prevention Division's efforts to conduct state-mandated inspections and enhance the safety of residents throughout the community.

Questions?

If you have questions regarding residential inspections, scheduling, or compliance requirements, please contact the Fire Prevention Division.

Phone: (619) 336-4550

Email: fire@nationalcityca.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why am I being charged a Residential Fire/Life Safety Inspection Fee?
  California law requires local fire departments to conduct annual inspections of multi-family residential properties. The inspection fee helps recover the actual costs associated with performing these inspections and processing the required documentation.

• Which properties are subject to these inspections?
  Residential rental properties with three or more units, including apartments, condominiums, mobile home parks, and trailer parks, are subject to annual inspections.

• How is the inspection fee determined?
  Fees are based on the number of units within the residential complex, as adopted by the City following a comprehensive fee study.

• When will I be charged the inspection fee?
  The Residential Fire/Life Safety Inspection Fee is added to your annual Residential Rental Tax renewal fee.

• Where can I learn more about this program?
  Please review the Residential Fire/Life Safety Inspection Fee Information (PDF), which explains the legal requirements, the purpose of the inspection program, and the adopted fee schedule.