Fire Prevention Inspection (CFD): Chicago restaurant guide
Chicago Fire Department — Fire Prevention Bureau
What it is
CFD inspects exits, heating and duct systems, fire extinguishers and posted occupancy cards. It is part of the liquor and amusement license task-force inspections and the annual inspections of businesses and places of assembly.
When a restaurant needs it
With liquor/PPA licensing, then annually and on complaint.
How to apply
No separate application: BACP schedules the first inspection after a license application; later inspections come with about 4 weeks' notice, though CFD also inspects unannounced.
Documents you’ll need
- Hood suppression and extinguisher service tags
- Fire alarm/sprinkler test records if present
- Posted occupancy card for rooms over 100 persons
Good to know
Extinguishers must be serviced by a CFD-licensed Fire Extinguisher Serviceman. Blocked exits are the most common failure.
Official source
BACP — liquor license inspections (Health, Fire, Buildings) · CFD — Fire Prevention
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.