Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services strives to prevent emergencies and ensure that facilities are compliant with the BC Fire Code, City of Port Coquitlam Bylaws and applicable regulations.
The purpose of this initial inspection is to ensure your business meets life safety standards to protect the lives of your employees, customers, firefighters and you from the harmful effects of fire. Compliance also protects your property and equipment investment.
The following brochure serves as a guide outlining what to expect during the new business license process with the Fire Department, including many of the common safety requirements that must be met.
Routine fire inspections by Port Coquitlam Fire and Emergency Services are an essential part of keeping our community safe. These visits help identify and correct fire hazards, support compliance with applicable fire and life safety requirements, and verify that key systems—such as fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits—are in place and working properly. By addressing risks early, routine inspections reduce the likelihood and impact of fires, protect people and property, and help local businesses maintain safe workplaces for employees and the public.
The British Columbia Fire Code mandates that properties have a Fire Safety Plan based on their use or occupancy type. A plan is generally required for buildings that:
- Provide care, treatment, or detention
- Have a fire alarm system (as per the BC Building Code)
- Store or handle flammable/combustible liquids
- Involve hazardous processes or operations
- Are under construction or demolition
For a full list, refer to Section 2.8 of the BC Fire Code.
Buildings under construction must have a Construction Fire Safety Plan, followed by a complete Fire Safety Plan before they are ready for occupancy. Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services also requires a Pre-Incident Plan and a Vital Information Form to be submitted with each Fire Safety Plan. A review fee of $200 (tax included) applies per submission. All documents must be submitted to [email protected] for review and approval. The following documents are designed with the intent of supporting fire safety planners with their submissions.
A Pre-Incident Plan is a site plan that provides first responders with an overview of key building features, hazards, layout, construction, and occupancy. This plan enhances firefighter safety and helps streamline decision-making during emergencies. Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services requires a Pre-Incident Plan to be submitted along with the Fire Safety Plan to ensure effective emergency response. In addition, Pre-incident Plans are required for any multi-tenanted commercial and multi-tenanted industrial buildings as outlined in the Fire and Emergency Services Bylaw 4935 [PDF/389KB].
The Vital Information Form provides a quick snapshot of a building’s construction, life safety systems, on-site dangerous good storage, special emergency response considerations, and key emergency contacts. This supports efficient and effective Fire Department emergency response.