Business License Inspections
Business Licence & Occupancy Readiness
The City of Chilliwack Fire Department requires a fire inspection before most businesses can open or receive approval for a business licence. The Fire Department is the final review stage in the process.
You do not need to contact us until we reach out to you.
Step 1 - Wait for Us to Contact You
After other City departments complete their reviews, we will email or call you with inspection instructions.
When you receive this message:
- Read it carefully in full
- Complete all preparation steps below
- Contact us when you are ready to book
We do not automatically schedule an inspection.
Step 2 - Prepare for Inspection
Building Permits
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- We cannot inspect if there is an open building permit; all permits must be closed before booking
- When ready for your final building permit inspection, contact the building department first; they will coordinate directly with the Fire Department on your behalf
Fire Protection Systems
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- Fire Alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, emergency lighting, and related systems must be installed, tested, and serviced by a qualified ASTTBC Technician
- Have all inspection, testing, and service paperwork available for review at the time of inspection
Set Up Your Space
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- The business should be as close to "operational" as possible
- Furniture, shelving, equipment, and storage should be in place
- Exits, aisles, and travel paths must be clear
Step 3 - Booking & Timelines
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- Contact us when you are ready
- Appointments may be scheduled up to 10 business days out, depending on availability
- If early access is needed for lease or occupancy timelines while permits remain open, we may provide one conditional inspection only - a final inspection is still required once permits are closed
We’re here to help and happy to work with you to make the process clear and successful. If you have questions at any time, please reach out to [email protected] or call (604) 792-8713.