Fire Certificate Requirements in Singapore: What You Should Know
In Singapore, fire safety is a top priority, governed by the Fire Safety Act 1993 and enforced by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). To ensure buildings are safe for occupancy, the SCDF requires certain premises to obtain a Fire Certificate (FC). This certificate confirms that a building complies with the necessary fire safety standards.
What Is a Fire Certificate?
A fire certificate singapore is an official document issued by the SCDF, indicating that a building has met all required fire safety standards. It is mandatory for certain types of buildings before they can be occupied.
Who Needs a Fire Certificate?
Under Section owner or occupier of any public building such as offices, hospitals, shopping complexes, industrial buildings, and private residential buildings that fall within the following criteria is required to apply and obtain a Fire Certificate
Public Buildings: Buildings with an occupant load of more than persons, excluding certain exceptions like serviced apartments with external corridors, standalone carparks, and non-fully enclosed hawker centres or wet markets.
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Industrial Buildings: Buildings with an occupant load of persons or more, a floor area or site area of square metres or more, or a habitable height of more than 24 metres.
Foreign Dormitories: Similar criteria as industrial buildings.
Hospitals: All hospitals require a Fire Certificate.
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Residential Buildings: Buildings with a habitable height of more than 24 metres, installed with an automatic fire alarm system, a sprinkler system, or a wet riser system, and not used or intended to be used as an HDB flat
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Engineered Timber Buildings: Buildings installed with any automatic fire detection or suppression system, excluding HDB flats
Application Process
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Pre-Application Requirements:
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Ensure all fire safety works have been completed in accordance with the Fire Code.
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Engage a Registered Inspector (RI) to inspect and certify the fire safety works.
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Submission:
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Submit the application through the GoBusiness Portal.
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Provide necessary documents, including the Fire Certificate Application Form and relevant building information.
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Inspection:
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SCDF may schedule an inspection to verify compliance.
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Ensure all fire protection systems are operational and meet the required standards.
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Issuance:
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If all requirements are met, the Fire Certificate will be issued.
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The certificate is valid for 12 months unless otherwise stated.
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Inspections
SCDF conducts inspections to ensure fire protection systems are in good working condition. These inspections are typically scheduled annually and may include:
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Testing of fire alarm systems.
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Verification of sprinkler and wet riser systems.
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Assessment of emergency lighting and signage.
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Evaluation of escape routes and fire exits.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Operating a building without a valid Fire Certificate is an offence under the Fire Safety Act 1993. Penalties may include:
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Fines.
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Imprisonment.
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Prosecution of the owner or occupier.
It is essential to ensure that a valid Fire Certificate is obtained and maintained to avoid legal repercussions.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Fire Certificate is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of building occupants and complying with Singapore's fire safety regulations. By understanding the requirements and following the proper procedures, property owners and occupiers can contribute to a safer environment for all.

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