Division of Hotels and Restaurants

Fire Safety FAQ

All information on this page is current and was last reviewed by the division on November 18, 2008.

1. Q: What is the Division of Hotels and Restaurants' role in addressing fire safety issues in public food service and lodging establishments?

A: The 2008 Florida Legislature changed the division's fire safety role in Chapter 2008-055, Laws of Florida, effective July 1, 2008. The division records readily observable fire safety items during inspections and reports any item that may violate fire safety requirements to the State Fire Marshal and local fire safety authorities.

2. Q: Are these reports available to the public?

A: Yes. All of the reports are posted to our webpage.

3. Q: Whom should I contact regarding complaints or questions about fire related issues?

A: Contact your local State Fire Marshal's office or fire authority for assistance with all fire related questions.

4. Q: If I'm building or altering a restaurant or lodging, who is the authority on what fire protection equipment I need?

A: The Florida Building Commission and the State Fire Marshal establish the rules governing the design, construction, erection, alteration, modification, repair, or demolition of any public lodging or public food service establishment through adoption and maintenance of the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code.

5. Q: Why are automatic sprinkler systems recommended in so many buildings?

A: Automatic sprinkler systems have an exceptional record in preserving lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.), no multiple fatality (more than two deaths) has ever occurred in an establishment properly equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

6. Q: Who is responsible for maintaining the fire protection equipment located at a licensed establishment?

A: The license holder is responsible for properly maintaining all fire protection equipment.