Fire Plan Check

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Plan Check Process Overview

The plan check process involves a detailed review of construction plans submitted by property owners, contractors, or developers. This review ensures compliance with the California Fire Code (CFC), California Building Code (CBC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, and Newport Beach ordinances. Approved plans allow permitted installation work to begin, protecting life and property while maintaining public safety.

Submittal Process

Submitting your plans is the first step in the review process. Detailed construction plans with supporting documentation are required. During the review, our team evaluates compliance with applicable codes and provides feedback if adjustments are needed.

  • In-Person Submittal: Submit plans at the Newport Beach Civic Center.
  • Required Documentation: Include specifications for fire protection systems and other relevant fire life safety systems.
  • Review Timeline: Standard reviews typically take up to 15 business days.

Step-by-Step Guide

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1. Prepare Your Plans

  • Ensure compliance with all relevant codes and standards.
  • Plans must be signed by a licensed design professional.
  • Complete the fillable General Notes sheet and include it as page 1 of the plan set.
  • Provide a minimum of two sets of plans and supporting documents.

2. Submit Your Plans

  • Submit plans in person.
  • Complete a Permit Application for fire review and permit at the time of submittal.

3. Fees

  • Pay plan check, inspection permit, and associated fees at the time of submittal. (Latest Fee Schedule)

4. Plan Review

  • A fire plans examiner will review your submission for compliance.
  • You may be contacted via phone or email for additional information or clarification.

Plan Review Timelines:

  • Initial Plan Check: Up to 15 business days.
  • Revisions/Resubmittals: Up to 15 business days.

Special Submittals:

  • Alternate Means and Methods Submittals
    • Contact fire plans examiner for submittal details.
  • Technical Assistance Submittals (Third Party / Fire Protection Engineer Reports)
    • Contact fire plans examiner for submittal details.

5. Permit Inspection Requests

  • Request inspections using the approved permit card.
  • Contact the plan examiner for questions about plan check status, as you will not be notified automatically when plans are approved or returned for corrections.

Over-the-Counter Submittals

Over-the-counter submittals are available Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., for smaller projects and quick reviews. These submittals do not involve calculation reviews.

Eligible Projects Include:

  • Kitchen Suppression Systems
  • Residential Fire Sprinklers (13D systems with fewer than 50 sprinklers)
  • Small Commercial Fire Sprinklers (13 systems with fewer than 50 sprinklers)
  • Fire Alarms (fewer than 20 devices total)

Associated Fees

Understanding the costs involved in the plan check process is essential for budgeting your project. View the Fee Schedule for detailed information about fire plan review and inspection fees.

Standards and Guidelines

All plan submissions must comply with the following standards and guidelines:

FAQ’s

How long does the plan check process take?

  • The standard review process takes approximately 15 business days.

What happens if my plans are not approved?

  • If corrections are required, you will receive specific feedback. Revised plans can be resubmitted once adjustments are made.

Can I track the status of my submission?

  • Yes, log into the Plan Submittal Portal to view the current status of your application.

Do I need to make an appointment for over the counter fire plan check review?

  • No, an appointment is not required. It is based on a first come, first serve basis. Over the counter walk-ins are available Mon-Thurs from 7:30am until 12:00pm.

I lost my original approved plans, how can I obtain a copy?

  • First, you must be the licensee on the approved plans in order to obtain a copy. Once verified, a records request must be made though the city. 

Contact Us

For additional assistance or inquiries about the plan check process, please contact us:

  • Phone: (949) 644-3106
  • Address: 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660