AFD Permits

The Austin Fire Department is responsible for issuing several different kinds of permits, including:

Public Assembly (PA)

An Annual Public Assembly Permit (PA) is required for public establishments who anticipate or operate at an occupancy rate of 50 or more people, and whose gross sales constitute 51% alcohol.
Submit a Fire Marshal's Office Public Assembly Permit Application and Inspection Request Form

Fire Protection Systems (FPS) Program

Inspection Companies
- Contractor Notification (PDF, 566 KB)
- Please register at www.thecomplianceengine.com and then sign up for training on The Compliance Engine’s (TCE) website.
- TCE Online Request
What is the Compliance Engine?

In October 2017, AFD began tracking the compliance of fire protection systems in commercial buildings across the City of Austin through the online tool, The Compliance Engine (TCE). Acceptance tests, Annual reports, 6-month reports (kitchen hoods only) deficiencies, and repairs are all required to be submitted through the TCE website.

Management Companies
- Property Notification (PDF, 61.4 KB)
- FPS applications are no longer required. It remains the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that his/her system(s) are in compliance with the current adopted fire code (PDF, 223 KB).
Fire Protection Systems Program Contact Information:

E-mail address: afdcompliance@austintexas.gov

Phone: 512-974-0160, option 4

High-piled Storage

The 2021 International Fire Code, as amended by the City of Austin, requires businesses that store combustible materials in closely packed piles or on pallets, in racks or on shelves obtain/maintain, renew every three years, a High-Piled Combustible Storage Operational Permit. The need for the permit is dependent on height and class of combustible commodity. This requirement allows AFD to track potential hazards and inform responding firefighters about certain locations.