Fire Protection System (FPS) Program FAQs

Is there any cost related to the Fire Protection System (FPS) Permit?

There is an annual fee for the FPS permit which includes a permit technology fee. These fees offset some of the program costs. The permit renews every July 1. The fee is enabled by City of Kent Resolution 1941.

What is a fire protection system?

A fire protection system consists of approved devices, equipment, and systems, or combinations of systems, used to detect a fire, activate an alarm, extinguish or control a fire, control or manage smoke, and products of fire or any combination thereof.

What are some examples of fire protection systems?

• Automatic and manual fire alarm systems
• Automatic sprinkler systems
• Chemical suppression systems (paint booths, kitchen range hoods, etc. )
• Clean agent suppression systems (computer rooms, etc. )
• Fire doors
• Emergency generators that serve life safety functions
• Smoke management systems
• Standpipes

Why am I required to inspect, test, and maintain my fire protection system?

The International Fire Code requires that fire protection systems are maintained in an operative condition at all times.

Who is required to pay the fee for the permit?

The permit is issued to the owner of the structure where the system resides. This reduces the amount of permits that must be maintained and ensures that the owner of the structure is involved with the systems that protect their property.

Why did I not get a permit to post like other Kent Fire Prevention permits?

There is no requirement to post the FPS permit on site. You will not be receiving a paper copy of the FPS permit. Fire protection systems vary by location and type in every structure and there is no single location that works for all structures. We recommend that you keep a copy of the invoice in your records for future review.

How do I contact the Community Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention Division?

• Mail:

Puget Sound Fire, Fire Prevention Division
220 4th Avenue South
Kent, WA 98032

• Email:

Fire Prevention FPS

What are the required inspection, testing, and maintenance schedules for my system?

All the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards for fire protection systems are listed in KCC 901.6.1. The actual requirements are listed within those referenced documents. The documents can be purchased from NFPA or other technical bookstores.

Why do I receive multiple permits for my complex?

The permits are issued for individual buildings instead of complexes. This allows for clearer communication for the issues related to an individual building. Additionally, there are many commercial/industrial complexes with structures owned by different entities.

What do I do if there are no longer fire protection systems in my structure?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention Division by email at Fire Prevention FPS Updates.

I received a testing reminder but I normally test on another date, who do I contact?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention Division by email at Fire Prevention FPS Updates.

Why do I have to submit inspection, testing, and maintenance reports?

The International Fire Code enables the Fire Chief to require that the reports be made available. He has determined that they be mailed to Community Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention for review.

Where do I submit inspection, testing, and maintenance reports?

Puget Sound Fire has contracted with BRYCER, LLC to help manage the fire protection system inspections, testing, and maintenance program. All contractors who perform inspection, testing and maintenance services of fire protection systems are required to electronically submit all compliant and non-compliant reports to the department via The Compliance Engine.

How do I maintain my contact information on the permit?

We formally request that contact information be updated annually by making corrections to the remittance stub that accompanies the invoice. Corrections can also be made anytime by contacting the Community Risk Reduction/Fire Prevention Division by email at Fire Prevention FPS Updates.

CONTACT