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Fire Marshal Permit Process

 

Completed permit applications and PDF-formatted plans must be submitted to the Victoria County Fire Marshal’s Office for review. Submissions may be emailed or delivered as directed by the Fire Marshal’s Office.

 

Fire Marshal's office.

 

 

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all new commercial construction, commercial remodeling, and changes of occupancy within Victoria County are reviewed for compliance with state-adopted NFPA fire and life safety standards before the commencement of any construction activity.

This policy requires permits, plan review, and Fire Marshal approval before work begins. This policy does not constitute local adoption of a fire code under Texas Local Government Code § 233.061. Victoria County recognizes state-adopted NFPA standards as the regulatory framework governing Fire Marshal inspection and enforcement duties.

Applicability

This policy applies to:

• All new commercial construction  
• All commercial remodeling or renovation  
• Tenant finish-outs and build-outs  
• Any change of occupancy  
• Projects requiring installation, modification, or removal of fire protection systems

 

 Failure to obtain a permit may result in stop-work orders, penalties, re-inspection fees, and citations as allowed by law.

 

Plan Review Requirements

The following must be submitted for plan review:

  • Construction drawings
  • Fire protection system shop drawings
  • Site plan
  • Scope of work letters
  • Applicable state permits (if required)

Permit Application Process

1. Submit the required permit application.
2. Pay required fees according to the adopted fee schedule.
3. Fire Marshal plan review for NFPA compliance. Plans must be submitted as a single PDF file on a USB drive or as otherwise approved.
4. Permit issuance upon approval. No work may begin until the permit is issued.

Required Inspections

• Construction progress inspections  
• Fire sprinkler and fire alarm rough-in inspections  
• Hydrostatic testing and system acceptance testing  
• Final fire and life safety inspection

 Enforcement

This policy is enforceable by the Victoria County Fire Marshal under Texas law, the State Fire Marshal-adopted NFPA standards, and the county’s adopted fee schedule. Stop-work orders, penalties, and re-inspection fees may apply.
 
This policy was adopted by the Victoria County Commissioners Court on November 17, 2025, and will take effect January 1, 2026.