The Fire Prevention Bureau works to keep Toledo’s residents, workers, and visitors safe by preventing fires before they start. Through consistent code enforcement, public education, inspections, and planning, the Bureau reduces fire-related risk and helps protect lives and property across the city.

Led by the Chief of Fire Prevention, the Bureau includes:

  • 7 Fire Inspectors
  • 2 Plan Examiners
  • 1 Pre-Plan Officer
  • 2 Public Education Officers
  • 1 Incident Reporting Officer
  • Administrative staff supporting FOIA and compliance

    Core Services

    Fire Safety Inspections Construction Document Review for Fire Protection Systems Public Information and Freedom of Information Act Requests

    Fire Safety

    Fire safety starts with prevention. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and make sure smoke alarms are working on every level of your home. Always plan and practice an escape route so everyone knows how to get our quickly in an emergency.

    Smoke Alarm Information

    The Fire Prevention Bureau can answer residents' questions about smoke alarm placement, selection, and battery replacement. (TMC 1301.11)

    Open Burning

    All open burning must follow state and local fire safety rules.

    The City allows certain small fires for:

    • Recreation and Cooking: bonfires, campfires, and outdoor fireplaces for cooking, warmth, religious/ceremonial, or leisure
    • Occupational needs: heating tar, welding, acetylene torches, highway safety flares, outdoor worker warmth, or smudge pots

    Fires must:

    • Use only clean, seasoned firewood, natural gas or an equivalent clean-burning fuel
    • Be 3 ft. or less in diameter and 2 ft. or less in height
    • Comply with OFC 3745-19-03

    Resources

    State Fire Marshal

    Ohio's Division of State Fire Marshal is the oldest established office of its kind in the United States. The Division's mission is to safeguard the public, its property and the environment from fire and related risks through education, investigation and enforcement.

    More Info