Kitchen hood fire-suppression system approval & fire permit: Los Angeles restaurant guide

LAFD Confirm with the city

What it is

Cooking that produces grease-laden vapor needs a Type I hood with an automatic fire-extinguishing system; LAFD reviews and inspects fire-protection systems and issues fire permits for hazardous equipment.

When a restaurant needs it

Fryers, griddles, ranges, charbroilers, woks or solid-fuel cooking.

How to apply

Your suppression contractor submits system drawings to LAFD Fire Development Services alongside the LADBS mechanical (hood) permit; LAFD witnesses the acceptance test.

Documents you’ll need

Suppression system shop drawings and manufacturer listing
Hood/appliance layout
Mechanical permit number
Contractor license

Fee

Varies — see LAFD fee schedule

Processing time

Varies

Renewal

Semi-annual system servicing and periodic hood cleaning under the Fire Code

Who files

Submitted and installed by a licensed fire-suppression contractor.

Good to know

LAFD's fire-permit flowchart is published only as an image — confirm with Fire Development Services exactly which drawings and tests your hood system needs.

Official source

LAFD — fire permits · LAFD — Fire Development Services

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.