Fire Inspections

Directed by officers in red helmets, two teams of firefighters attack a propane fire during a training exercise.

The Fire Department is responsible for conducting state mandated fire inspections and fire code enforcement. Code enforcement is conducted in all occupies except one and two family dwellings. In 1982 the State Fire Code was adopted. State legislation enacted a mandatory inspection schedule. This schedule governs the frequency of inspections based on occupancy classification.

Once every year

  • Hazardous
  • Institutional
  • High Rise
  • Assembly
  • Residential (except one and two family dwellings and only interior common areas of dwelling units of multi-family occupancies)

Once every 2 years

  • Industrial and Educational (except public schools)

Once every 3 years

  • Business
  • Mercantile
  • Storage
  • Churches
  • Synagogues

The Elizabethtown Fire Department conducts all fire inspections for new and existing structures. All new construction fire inspections must be conducted by Elizabethtown Fire Department with building permits being conducted through Bladen County Building Inspections Department.

Preparing for an inspection

The Elizabethtown Fire Department handles all fire inspections inside the town limits.  The Department inspects according to the frequency rates established by the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code Schedule.

What are some things I can do to prepare for an inspection?
  • Have a fire extinguisher mounted in an obvious location.
  • If you have an extinguisher already, it should have a recent inspection tag.
  • Discontinue the use of any drop cords throughout the business used as permanent wiring.
  • Remove any natural growth outside of the building.
  • Make sure all exits are clear and free from any obstructions.

These are just a few items that we frequently see during inspections.  Taking a look at the items above can help you get ready for your inspection and make your business a safe place.

Requesting a Fire Inspection

To request a fire inspection, please contact Fire Chief Nick West at the Elizabethtown Fire Department.  Chief West can be reached by telephone at (910) 862-4586