Regulation of The Fire Protection Industry
The Chief Officer regulates the fire protection industry under Part 2 of the General Fire Regulations. Persons that intend to install, repair, and routinely service fire protection equipment must hold a permit issued by the Chief Officer of the Tasmania Fire Service (TFS).
What is Fire Protection Equipment
Fire Protection Equipment includes any of the following:
- a fire extinguisher
- a fire hose reel
- a fire blanket
- a fire protection system
What is a Fire Protection System
A Fire Protection System includes any of the following:
- an automatic fire detection and alarm system
- an automatic fire sprinkler system
- an automatic smoke detection and alarm system
- a fire-extinguishing system
- a fire hydrant system
- a mechanical smoke management system
- a smoke alarm system connected to a monitored security system (other than a smoke alarm system in a Class 1a building)
- a smoke detection system
- a sound system and intercom system for emergency purposes
What will a permit enable me to do
There are two different types of fire protection permits. One is for fire protection systems and the other is for portable fire protection equipment as described above. There are two different types of application processes depending on the type of permit required.
Once issued, permits will legally allow you to install, repair, and routinely service fire protection equipment or systems, as specified in the scope of the permit issued.
How do I get a Permit
An application process must be completed for the type of permit required. There are application forms below that you must use and provide all the required information to enable an assessment of your application to be completed. To assist you in completing the application form please refer to Appendix A – Information for prospective permit holders that may assist you to understand the application process and the minimum information required.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Building Safety Unit on (03) 6166 5615 or by emailing BuildingSafetySouth@fire.tas.gov.au
Completed application forms can be emailed to BuildingSafetySouth@fire.tas.gov.au or mailed to:
Tasmania Fire Service
Fire Protection Equipment Permit
GPO Box 308
HOBART TAS 7001
Fire protection systems permit holders must comply with the Tasmania Fire Service code of practice. As part of the application process, applicants must have an understanding of the code of practice and must confirm that they will comply with the code of practice in undertaking any works in line with the permit.
How long will the permit application process take
Fire Protection Systems Permits – The system permit applications process usually takes up to six weeks to complete. This is dependent on the applicant providing the required information. Where additional information is required, this is likely to extend the assessment period. To ensure an efficient assessment process applicants should include the minimum information required including relevant referee reports, evidence of the skills, knowledge, experience, and qualifications obtained.
Portable Fire Protection Equipment Permits – applicants must complete the equipment permit application form and must provide a statement of attainment to demonstrate qualifications obtained.
Providing all the requirements have been met and information received, applications are usually processed within 10 business days.
How do I renew an existing permit
All permits issued by TFS have an expiry date. It is important that permit holders apply to renew their permit at least 6 months prior to the expiry of the permit. Permits cannot be extended, and it is the responsibility of the permit holder to renew their permit prior to the expiry date.
Application Forms
Fire Protection Systems Permits
Fire Protection Systems Permit Application Form
Fire Protection Systems Permit Re-Application Form
Portable Fire Equipment Permits
Portable Fire Protection Equipment Permit Application Form
Fees & Charges
Permit Fees and Charges 2024-2025
Requirements to comply with other legislation
Being issued a permit under Part 2 of the General Fire Regulations does not preclude a permit holder from complying with legislative obligations under any other Act or Regulation including but not limited to building legislation and work health and safety legislation.
Technical Nominees must comply with the requirements of the Occupational Licensing legislation.
For further information on fire protection systems and equipment and other related resources click here to go to our resource library.