HomeMy WebLinkAboutIndustry Bulletin 2023-003 Fire Alarm System Signal Transmission Change
BILLY P. ALCORN
FIRE CHIEF
Jonathan Chew, Deputy Fire Chief
Prevention and Support Services Division
(559) 621-4101 FAX (559) 457-1279
Fresno Fire Department 911 H Street Fresno, CA 93721-3082
“To protect and put service above all else.”
FIRE INDUSTRY BULLETIN 2023-003
SCOPE
Fire alarm system signal transmission means (dialer) changes from existing cellular 2/3G
to upgraded cellular 4G/4GLTE/4GVoLTE/5GVoLTE, etc. and associated permit and
inspection requirements.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this industry bulletin is to notify stakeholders of the applicable permit and
inspection requirements when proposing fire alarm system signal transmission means
(dialer) changes from existing cellular 2/3G to upgraded cellular 4G/4GLTE/4GVoLTE-
/5GVoLTE, etc.
BACKGROUND
As noted in the California Fire Code (CFC), the fire code official has the authority to
formulate policies they deem necessary based upon local conditions related to fire alarm
modifications and permit requirements. Additionally, the currently adopted version of
NFPA 72 notes that the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is to be notified prior to a
contractor installing or altering fire alarm system equipment or wiring.
Because of the nature of these kinds of alterations, “a change in transmission frequency”
from 2/3G cellular signals to 4G/4GLTE/4GVoLTE/5GVoLTE, etc. signals, (which is
materially different from a “change in transmission technology” where existing redundant
phone lines are removed and replaced with a completely different technology), FFD
requires an FPD F-43 Fire Sprinkler Monitoring Permit be obtained.
Additionally, completion of an inspection related to the permit is also required to ensure
the new “dialer” is functioning properly and has been properly programmed.
Fire Industry Bulletin 2023-003
October 19, 2023
Page 2
INFORMATION
Beginning October 19, 2023, all permit applicants proposing “a change in transmission
frequency” from existing 2/3G cellular signals to 4G/4GLTE/4GVoLTE/5GVoLTE, etc.
signals, shall obtain an FPD F-43 Fire Sprinkler Monitoring Permit following existing FFD
practice.
A proposed change of an existing fire alarm system transmission technology from
redundant telephone lines to cellular signals will follow existing FFD policy and will remain
unchanged.
NOTE
This bulletin is effective October 19, 2023.