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Fire sprinkler and fire alarm permits (PermitSF): San Francisco restaurant guide

SF Fire Department / DBI

What it is

Required to install or modify fire sprinklers or a fire alarm system; since 2026 these are filed exclusively online through PermitSF.

When a restaurant needs it

When the build-out adds, moves or changes sprinkler heads or piping, or installs/modifies a fire alarm — common when ceilings, walls or a hood are added, or when the occupancy changes to assembly.

How to apply

A licensed C-16 fire protection (sprinkler) or C-10 (alarm) contractor files the permit in PermitSF with shop drawings; SFFD witnesses the acceptance test.

Documents you’ll need

Sprinkler shop drawings and hydraulic calculations
Fire alarm drawings and device list
SFPUC Request for Water Flow form (sprinkler)
Contractor license

Fee

Per DBI Table 1A-C (fire sprinklers, 3+ units/commercial $348 per floor) and SF Fire Code Table 106-A

Processing time

Varies

Renewal

None; systems need periodic testing under the Fire Code

Who files

Filed by a CSLB-licensed C-16 (sprinkler) or C-10 (alarm) contractor.

Good to know

Sprinkler work also needs the SFPUC water-flow form; ask early whether the building's water service can support the system.

Official source

SF — get a fire sprinkler permit · SF — get a fire alarm permit

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