IL Fire Alarm cheat sheet

Illinois Fire Alarm Contractor Law and Business Practices

• Illinois regulates fire alarm contractors through the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM); a state fire alarm contractor license is required to install, alter, or repair fire alarm systems.

• The Illinois Fire Alarm Contractor Licensing Act requires a licensed contractor to employ at least one licensed fire alarm technician or meet the qualifying-entity requirement.

• Individual fire alarm technicians must be licensed by the OSFM and complete continuing education (commonly 8 hours per renewal cycle) to maintain the license.

• Contractors must carry liability insurance and provide proof to the OSFM; license renewal cycles and fees are set by the OSFM and published in the Illinois Administrative Code.

• Local jurisdictions (e.g., Chicago, Cook County) may impose additional permitting, plan review, and licensing requirements on top of state law.

• Contractors must obtain permits and submit plans to the local AHJ before installation; final inspection and acceptance testing by the AHJ are required before occupancy.

• Illinois requires notification to the OSFM and the local AHJ of system impairments and restoration; false alarm fees and reporting may be imposed locally.

• Business records - contracts, test reports, and as-built drawings - must be retained and produced for AHJ inspection; misrepresentation of licensure is grounds for discipline.