Third Party Plan Review

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Third-Party Plan Review

In certain cases, the Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD) allows approved third-party agencies to conduct plan reviews to help expedite the permitting process. Third-party reviews ensure that fire protection systems and life safety features are designed to meet all applicable codes, while providing flexibility for project teams on tight schedules.

When Third-Party Review is Allowed

Third-party plan review may be permitted for:

Fire alarm system designs
Automatic sprinkler systems
Standpipe and fire pump systems
Commercial kitchen suppression systems
Smoke control and evacuation systems
Specialized or large-scale projects requiring expedited turnaround

All third-party reviews must be completed by a BCFD-approved reviewer and meet the department’s standards.

Note: Even with a third-party review, BCFD retains the authority to perform final review and approval.

How the Third-Party Review Process Works

Obtain Approval: Contact the BCFD Fire Prevention Office to request authorization to use a third-party reviewer for your project.
Select an Approved Reviewer: Choose from the list of BCFD-recognized third-party agencies.
Submit Plans: Submit plans directly to the third-party reviewer for code compliance review.
Third-Party Review and Report: The reviewer examines the plans and provides a report with findings, corrections, or a recommendation for approval.
Submit to BCFD: Submit the third-party review report, stamped plans, and all required documentation to BCFD for final review and approval.
Permit Issuance: Once BCFD verifies compliance, your permit may be issued.

Important Requirements

All third-party reviewers must be registered engineers or certified fire protection specialists.
Plans must still be submitted to BCFD for recordkeeping and final approval — third-party review does not eliminate BCFD oversight.
Any major changes during construction must be re-reviewed and re-approved by both the third-party agency and BCFD.
Additional fees for third-party review are the responsibility of the applicant.