Code Enforcement
The Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is responsible for life safety and fire prevention through the enforcement of the State Fire Prevention Code - PDF - 3.66 MB.
Core enforcement functions
The OSFM enforces the State Fire Prevention Code through a team of Fire Protection Engineers, Fire Safety Inspectors, and Deputy State Fire Marshals. We enforce fire safety requirements for buildings by performing the following actions, before a building opens and throughout its use:
Plan reviews and pre-construction support
Prior to construction, OSFM engineers provide:
- Review of architectural designs for buildings and fire protection systems (alarms, sprinklers) to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Provide guidance and consultation to designers and builders.
Fire Safety Inspections
During and after construction, OFSM conducts
- Acceptance testing for new construction and fire protection systems.
- On-site Inspections of building construction.
- Perform unannounced random spot checks, especially during peak times, to monitor occupancy loads and long-term code compliance.
Complaint Investigations
- Handles fire safety complaints from citizens regarding public buildings and potentially hazardous conditions.
- Conducts periodic inspections of existing occupancies.
View the State Fire Prevention Code - PDF - 3.66 MB for more detailed information about code enforcement.
Testing Laboratories
Recognized approved independent testing laboratories in the State of Maryland include any testing laboratory that is listed, approved, or otherwise recognized by any one or more of the following:
- U. S. DEPT. OF LABOR, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
- NATIONAL VOLUNTEER LABORATORIES ACCREDITATION PROGRAM
- INTERNATIONAL ACCREDITATION SERVICE, INC
- INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
- AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ACCREDITATION (A2LA)
- ANSI NATIONAL ACCREDITATION BOARD
COMAR Regulation 29.06.03, which previously required the State Fire Marshal to approve and maintain a list of approved independent testing laboratories, has been repealed effective January 1, 2013.