Copyright 2023 by Forsyth County, Georgia

Fire Department

BURNING NOT ALLOWED
 Burn Ban May 1st thru September 30th View outdoor burning regulations.

Command Staff

Jason Shivers

Division Chief, Technical Services
 

Jason Stover

Division Chief, Fire Marshal
 

Ron Fagan

Division Chief, Field Operations
 

Keith Pertschi

Division Chief, Training
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I obtain a burn permit?

Information on outdoor burning regulations and permitting can be obtained by calling (770) 781-2180, or by visiting Outdoor Burning Regulations.

What types of plan reviews are required by the Fire Safety Division?

Commercial Site Plans- Construction Plans for all newly proposed construction, additions and renovations on commercial structures and multi- family dwellings-fire suppression systems including automatic sprinkler and pre- engineered systems-fire alarms -commercial kitchen hoods-paint booths-storage tanks (under 660 gallons) and high piled storage plans. 

How do I submit plans for review?

All plans for construction projects and all fire specific plans (sprinklers, fire alarms, hoods etc.) within the City of Cumming - submit via ePlan solutions https://cummingga.eps.tech/cummingga/index.html

All fire specific plans in unincorporated areas (sprinklers, fire alarms, hoods etc.) submit via ePlan solutions Forsyth https://forsythga.eps.tech/forsythga/index.html

All other plan types in unincorporated areas- submit via CSS Portal

Can I submit paper plans for review?

The Fire Safety Division requires all plan submittals to be in electronic format. Note: plans will not be reviewed until all fire plan review fees are paid. 

How long does it take for a plan review?

Typically plans will be reviewed within 10 business days from the time the review fee is paid. Plans will not be reviewed prior to payment of the fire review fee.  

How do I pay for plan submittal?

Once plans are received an email containing a link to an invoice will be sent to the project applicant. The invoice link will provide instruction on how to pay electronically with a credit card. To prevent delays, it is imperative that the correct email is listed.  Note: The Fire Safety Division does not accept cash payment. 

How do I request a fire inspection?

You may request fire inspections by calling (678) 455-8072 or by emailing fmorequest@forsythco.com

How far in advance do I need to request a fire inspection?

Two business days. 

How should access to my job site be maintained?

According to NFPA 241, safe and stable emergency access must be maintained.  Contact your individual Fire Inspector for further information. 

Are approved plans required on my job site?

Yes, plans stamped by all applicable departments are required to be onsite available for inspector review.   

What codes do Forsyth County fire inspectors use to inspect?

Does the Fire Safety Division service fire extinguishers?

No, there are several businesses in the area that perform this service. 

Are fire extinguishers recyclable?

Yes, if it’s completely discharged. Use the below link for the contact information of the scrap metal recycling center near you. It is recommended that you contact them first to see if any other modifications need to be made for them to accept it. 

Forsyth County Recycling Centers

How do I schedule the Fire Department to teach my business about fire extinguishers and fire safety?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com to schedule. 

What requires special permitting from the Fire Safety Division?

There are several things: Blasting, Raw Wood Operations, Commercial Fireworks, Commercial Burn Pits and some outdoor special events.

I’m a Sub Contractor, should I call for my specific inspections?

We prefer that all inspections be requested by the General Contractor or the lead superintendent of the project. 

When and how will I get my Fire Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion?

Upon successful completion of all required fire inspections and payment of the certificate fee, customers will be emailed the certificate within two business days.  

How do I pay for a Fire Certificate of Occupancy?

After successful completion of all required fire inspections an email containing a link to an invoice will be sent to the person requesting the certificate.   

I have received my Fire Certificate of Occupancy; can I move in?

The Fire C of O alone DOES NOT permit occupancy of a space or building. Before occupying a space or building, you must also obtain approval and/or a C of O from The Forsyth County Department of Economic Development or the City of Cumming Inspections Department.  

Does the Fire Department fill swimming pools?

NO.

Does the Fire Department repair fire Hydrants?

Maintenance, repair, and testing of fire hydrants on county or city property fall under the purview of either the Forsyth County Water and Sewer Department or the City of Cumming Utilities. Hydrants located on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and are to be maintained by a qualified third party. 

How do I schedule a Fire Truck visit?

Fire truck visits and touch-a-truck events can be scheduled through our Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or emailing publiceducation@forsythco.com

Can I visit the fire station?

**NOTE- Currently we are not allowing visitors into our fire station under safety protocols for COVID. Please continue to check back for updates.** 

Will the fire department come out and check my smoke alarms?

Please contact our Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at  publiceducation@forsythco.com  

How long do smoke alarms last?

Your smoke alarms last approximately 10 years. If they are older than 10 years than you need to replace them. Please contact our Community Risk Reduction Unit with questions at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Where should I have smoke alarms?

Forsyth County Fire Department recommends that you have smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Please call the Community Risk Reduction Unit with questions 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Does the fire department give away smoke alarms?

The Community Risk Reduction Unit offers free smoke alarms and installation to our lower income families and assistance for the elderly and those with mobility restrictions. Please contact them at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Does the fire department handle car seats?

Forsyth County Fire Department has certificated car seat technicians on staff. Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit to schedule at 678-455-8072 or publiceducation@forsythco.com

 **NOTE-Please do not show up at your local station.** 

How do I schedule a car seat check?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit to schedule at 678-455-8072 or publiceducation@forsythco.com.

Does the fire department give away car seats?

Forsyth County Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction Unit has a limited amount of grant funded car seats that can be provided for low-income families. You must qualify for these seats. Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit for more information at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

How do I schedule the fire department to teach fire safety at my business?

The Community Risk Reduction Unit will be glad to come speak to your business. Please contact them at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Do you have programs for kids?

Explorers- for students that have completed the 8th grade and are 14 years or older. 

Junior Fire Academy- for rising 7th and 8th graders. 

Please see the link for each of these programs or contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com


 

10 Things You Must Do to Become a Firefighter

Our Mission

To protect lives, property, and the environment from all hazards through preparedness, prevention, mitigation and response.

Barry Head

Chief of Department
 

Address:
3520 Settingdown Rd.
Cumming, GA 30028 

Phone: 770-781-2180
Fax:
 770-781-2194