The Detroit Fire Marshal Division provides the citizens and visitors of Detroit with the highest level of fire prevention methods and fire protection engineering using standards and codes set forth by the Detroit Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance, NFPA and the Michigan Building Code. Our mission is rooted in fire prevention through inspections, code enforcement, plan review, investigation and public education, all delivered with outstanding customer service.

Detroit Fire Department and Special Events 

Each year, more than 200 special events are permitted across the City of Detroit, ranging from neighborhood block parties to large-scale celebrations that draw visitors from across the region and around the world. The Detroit Fire Department plays a vital role on the City’s Special Events Committee, working hand in hand with departments including police, homeland security, buildings and safety engineering, transportation, and public works to ensure that residents and visitors alike can safely enjoy these gatherings.

The department’s work is most visible during approximately a dozen major events annually — from the St. Patrick’s Day Parade along Michigan Avenue to the annual Menorah Lighting in Campus Martius and many events in between — but the planning and coordination happens year-round behind the scenes.

Special Events Safety: Do’s and Don’ts

For Residents and Visitors

DO:

• Follow all directives of public safety officials
• Be aware of the nearest exit — whether you are inside a building or under a tent
• Always maintain situational awareness
• Adhere to all posted rules and signage inside tents and event spaces, including no smoking policies

DON’T:

• Block or obstruct exits, walkways, or emergency access points
• Exceed posted occupancy limits
• Smoke inside tents or in prohibited areas
• Tamper with heaters, generators, fire extinguishers, or other safety equipment

For Businesses and Event Organizers

DO:

• Ensure all tents, temporary structures, and equipment are properly permitted and approved through the City
• Learn the difference between a Special Event and a Permitted Event and apply at least 60 days prior to your event here: https://detroitmi.gov/government/mayors-office/special-events
• Maintain strict adherence to approved occupancy capacities
• Keep exits clearly marked, illuminated, and unobstructed

DON’T:

• Expand tent space or increase capacity without proper authorization
• Use unapproved heating devices or electrical connections
• Allow overcrowding that compromises safe egress

How to Submit Documents

Fire Prevention

The Fire Prevention Section of the Detroit Fire Department is responsible for performing life safety inspections in all occupied buildings (assemblies, business, mercantile, industrial, apartments, etc.) to ensure compliance is met in accordance with the adopted codes as prescribed in the Detroit Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance. Additionally, the Fire Prevention Section performs/witnesses acceptance testing of all required fire protection and life safety systems that are installed in new and existing buildings.

Units

• Public Assemblies – 313.596.2932
• Public Instruction – 313.596.2968
• General Assignments/New Construction – 313.596.2954
• Hazardous Materials – 313.596.2931
• Institutions – 313.596.8892
• Court Enforcement – 313.596.2970

Every business type is required to obtain an annual fire permit as per the Detroit Fire Prevention and Protection Code. The Fire Prevention Section is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and visitors of Detroit through public education, community engagement, life safety inspections and code enforcement.

Services

Additional services provided by this section include:

• Fire sweeps
• Fire watch/training
• Code review/variances
• Consultations
• Hazardous materials escorts
• Certificate of fitness testing
• Evacuation plans/drills

Business Self Re-Inspection

The Detroit Fire Department’s Small Business Self Re-Inspection program offers small business owners the opportunity to address and clear minor code violations independently. The program is open to low-hazard small business under 2,000 square feet void of complex fire safety systems, and provides tools needed to conduct inspections and remain in compliance with fire safety regulations.

Plans And Exams

The Plans and Exams Section of the Detroit Fire Department is responsible for analyzing all life safety and fire protection aspects of new construction, change of use and major renovation of commercial building projects. The section works closely with the Building Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED), Planning and Development Department (PDD), Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD), Health Department and others to identify solutions to fire and life safety through planning and design. The section approves projects to begin construction and modifications of design that comply with all national, state and city codes/standards. This is a critical step for citizens to obtain permits, begin construction and occupy their buildings.

Services

Services Include but are not limited to:

• Review of new and existing commercial, industrial, residential (3+ family) construction, additions and renovations
• Civil/Site plan layout for new development
• Pre-plan and pre-construction consultation
• Fire protection plan review (Fire alarms, fire suppression, monitoring, etc.)
• Code variance requests
• Municipal water tap approvals

NFPA Resources

Committed to community risk prevention, the Detroit Fire Marshal Division heavily encourages education regarding fire safety. Learn vital safety tips at the National Fire Prevention Association.