HB447 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Randy WoodRepresentative

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Duwayne BridgesRichard J. Laird

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Fire protection sprinkler systems, State Fire Marshall authorized to issue permits for installation, Secs. 34-33-1, 34-33-2, 34-33-3, 34-33-4, 34-33-5 am'd.

Summary

The bill creates a state-regulated permitting system for fire protection sprinkler contractors and potable water single-family dwelling sprinkler contractors, giving the State Fire Marshal authority to issue permits and set qualifications.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the State Fire Marshal would issue permits to qualified fire protection sprinkler contractors and potable water single-family dwelling sprinkler contractors. Contractors must meet specific certification requirements (NICET for fire protection layout technicians; licensed master plumber status and competency testing for potable water single-family dwelling work) and pay a fee to obtain a permit. The permit would name the certificate holder, and issuance can occur within 30 days after all conditions are satisfied or via reciprocity with other states. It would be unlawful to engage in sprinkler-related work without conforming to these provisions, and the State Fire Marshal would have authority to regulate fees and administer the program.

Who It Affects

• Fire protection sprinkler contractors and potable water single-family dwelling sprinkler contractors who would need to obtain State Fire Marshal permits, meet certification/licensing requirements, and pay application fees.
• Property owners and occupants whose buildings use sprinkler systems, including single-family homes, who would benefit from regulated installation and maintenance by credentialed contractors.

Key Provisions

• Defines two contractor categories: fire protection sprinkler contractor and potable water single-family dwelling sprinkler contractor, each requiring a State Fire Marshal permit after meeting certification requirements.
• Requires NICET certification for Fire Protection Layout Technician - Level III for the standard fire protection track; requires licensed Master Plumber status and NICET-style competency testing for the potable water single-family dwelling track.
• Implements a $100 application fee for both contractor tracks and a process for the State Fire Marshal to issue permits naming the certificate holder.
• Establishes eligibility and reciprocity provisions with other states for permit issuance and ongoing compliance, and notes the State Fire Marshal’s authority to set or adjust fees as needed.
• Prohibits engaging in the business of installing, repairing, altering, adding to, maintaining, or inspecting fire protection sprinkler systems or potable water sprinkler systems unless in conformity with the chapter, with specific exemptions for owners employing registered engineers and skilled workers for owner use.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Fire Protection