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Open Flame / candle permit: San Francisco restaurant guide

SF Fire Department — Bureau of Fire Prevention

What it is

Required to use candles or other decorative open-flame devices on dining or buffet tables in a public assembly space; devices must be in non-combustible holders that are hard to tip over.

When a restaurant needs it

Candles on tables in a restaurant or bar with a Place of Assembly (50+) — the City's restaurant guide lists 'Open Flame permit (candles with 50+ occupancy)'.

How to apply

Apply online or at the Fire Permit Center; bring the candle/device for testing at the counter.

Documents you’ll need

Fire permit application
Device description or sample
Floor plan showing where candles are used

Fee

$436 one-time permit fee (sf.gov Open Flame page); annual Open Flame Use license (class D47) waived from 2026 under Prop M

Processing time

Submit at least 5 business days ahead

Renewal

New permit if ownership changes or you switch device types

Who files

The business owner applies.

Good to know

Keep the permit on site — fire inspectors ask for it. Battery candles avoid the permit entirely.

Official source

SF — apply for an Open Flame permit · SFFD — permits and fees

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