The 2024 International Fire Code (IFC), as amended by the City of Austin, requires that businesses that store or use specific quantities or types of hazardous materials aboveground obtain an Aboveground Hazardous Materials Permit. The chemical quantities requiring a permit can be very small, if a highly toxic, flammable, or reactive chemical is present. Likewise, less hazardous chemicals do not require a permit unless much larger quantities are present.
This requirement allows Austin Fire to minimize chemical safety incident risk, track potential hazards and inform responding firefighters about specific chemical hazards at certain locations.
What you will find on this page:
- Permit Application Directions
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To apply for a new Aboveground Hazardous Materials permit, or renew an existing one, follow the detailed instructions included in the Hazardous Material Permit Application (PDF) to complete the required fields and submit.
The fee for the storage permits varies depending on the type of material and quantity stored. An estimate of the permit cost will be provided at the time of submission, and a bill with the final fee will be provided once the application is reviewed and approved.
- Permit Section Contact Information
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Aboveground Hazardous Material Permits for aboveground storage of chemicals and hazardous products can be obtained through the Austin Fire Marshal’s Office. For questions about the process , call the Aboveground Hazardous Materials Permit Section Support Staff at 512-974-0160, option 3 or email afdhazmat@austintexas.gov.
- Permit Engineer Contact Information
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Much of the 2021 and 2024 IFC addresses safety issues relating to preventing chemical accidents and limiting their consequences. These include provisions for operational controls, special building requirements, sprinkler protection, exhaust, electrical systems, separation distances, and maintenance for both new and existing buildings. Austin Fire engineers are available to answer IFC hazardous material questions. Email inquiries to fireprevention@austintexas.gov.
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