To provide for the safety of our community, and in accordance with California law (Health and Safety Code §13146.2 and §17921), a Fire Life/Safety Inspection of all R-2 Occupancies (Multi-Family Residential with 3 or more units under one roof) must be performed annually by uniformed Laguna Beach Fire Department personnel. The inspection focuses on exterior areas such as fire lanes, fire protection systems, emergency exits, and common areas such as community rooms and laundry rooms. There will not be an inspection of the inside of individual apartments or condominiums.

For further information, please call Robert Montaghami, Fire Marshal, at (949) 497-0352, or email rmontaghami@lagunabeachcity.net

FORMS & HANDOUTS

• Smoke Alarm & Carbon Monoxide Detector Affidavit
  • Please submit form to fireprevention@lagunabeachcity.net. The affidavit can also be mailed or dropped off in-person during normal business hours at the Fire Administration office located at 30516 S. Coast Hwy (Laguna Beach Community & Recreation Center)

• CAL FIRE Certificate of Flame Resistance Form
  • Form must be completed and submitted to Fire Prevention Division for any surfaces or textiles treated with a California State Fire Marshal listed product (Examples: outdoor shade covering, curtains for theaters, etc.). Application must adhere to manufacturer instructions and intended use.
  • Please submit form to fireprevention@lagunabeachcity.net. The form can also be mailed or dropped off in-person during normal business hours at the Fire Administration office located at 30516 S. Coast Hwy (Laguna Beach Community & Recreation Center)

BASIC FIRE & LIFE SAFETY INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

These are some of the more common life/safety violations seen in inspections. More specific requirements will be pointed out during the annual Fire-Life Safety Inspection, or you may contact the Fire Prevention Team.

1. All businesses must have approved address numbers visible from the street or road.

2. Provide a minimum of one portable fire extinguisher, size 2A10BC for every 75-foot travel distance. These extinguishers must be serviced annually or after each use and hung 3 to 5 feet from the floor in a readily accessible area.

3. Do not use extension cords, multiple plug adapters, or any device that allows more than one appliance to be plugged into each electrical outlet. The only exception would be an approved power strip, which includes a UL listing, fuse, and or breaker-type adapter.

4. Do not lock, block or obstruct any exit and provide a sign over it stating, “This door is to remain open during business hours”.

5. The sprinkler system and standpipes must be certified every 5 years with appropriate documentation.

6. All storage shall be kept 2 feet below the ceiling or 18 inches below sprinklers if the building is sprinkled.

7. A 30-inch minimum clearance shall be maintained around all power panels.

8. All exit doors shall provide direct and unobstructed access to a public way.

9. All compressed gas cylinders shall be secured to prevent falling.

10. All commercial cooking surfaces, where grease-laden vapors are produced, shall be protected by an approved fixed extinguishing system, and said system shall be serviced semi-annually or after each use. A Class K portable fire extinguisher shall be mounted near cooking areas.

KEY BOXES FOR EMERGENCY ACCESS (KNOX BOX)

The Knox product, commonly called a "Knox Box," is a secure rapid access system that provides the Fire Department with a quick and easy way to access a building or locked area during an emergency. It also minimizes potential costly repairs caused by forcible entry and allows the building to be re-secured quickly and easily.

How Does a Knox Box Work?

Knox Boxes are a little like real estate lock boxes, but far more ruggedly built. The Fire Department has a master key, and your keys or access information are secure inside. In an emergency, when access to a structure is impeded due to locked doors, the Fire Department opens the Knox Box.

We recommend, and in some instances may require, attaching Knox boxes to buildings and vehicular and pedestrian security gates for emergency Fire Department access. Knox Boxes are typically installed five feet above grade, though exceptions may be made by the Fire Marshal. When purchasing a Knox Box, please verify that the fire department you select indicates "Laguna Beach Fire Department". Selecting a neighboring Fire Department may result in delays and/or a Knox Box inaccessible by LBFD. 

Knox Boxes for businesses and gates can be ordered online at the Knox Company.

Knox Homebox Program

Knox Boxes may also be installed at private residences. Installation of a Knox Homebox grants the Fire Department prompt access to your home and loved ones in an emergency and minimizes potential costly repairs caused by forcible entry.

We recommend you install the Knox Homebox adjacent to the front door at five feet above grade. When purchasing a Knox Box, please verify that the fire department you select indicates "Laguna Beach Fire Department". Selecting a neighboring Fire Department may result in delays and/or a Knox Box inaccessible by LBFD. Once installation is complete, please contact the Fire Department to schedule an appointment to have your keys placed and locked in the Knox Homebox. The Fire Department can be reached at (949) 497-0700. 

Knox Homeboxes can be ordered online at the Knox Company.