Violations and Citations
What happens if the inspector finds a problem?
- Correction Notice / Notice of Violation (NOV) The building owner/responsible party is given a Correction Notice / NOV that identifies the problems or "violations" and provides a date by which the problems must be fixed. There is no monetary penalty associated with a Correction Notice / Notice of Violation. The Correction Notice provides a date by which you must resolve the violations, and information on how to contact SFD if you do not understand the Notice. You must take steps to correct the violation by the compliance date provided in the notice, or you may face further enforcement and possible penalties.
- Re-inspections The SFD inspector returns to the property. There is no charge for the first re-inspection. However, if the violation has not been corrected, it will be referred to the Fire Marshal's Office. Every time the Fire Marshal's Office must inspect to gain compliance, there is a fee of $433. See also: Why are you sending the invoice to me?
- Orders to Comply (OTC) The fire code includes fines of up to $1,000 per day and prosecution in a court of law. If you receive an Order to Comply letter, please read it carefully to note the violations SFD observed, the timeline you have to make corrections, and your appeal rights. Please take steps to correct the violations and come into compliance by the date provided in the letter, to avoid additional penalties. If you have questions or need information about an Order to Comply, please contact us at SFD_FMO_Compliance@seattle.gov
- Citations SFD inspectors can also write citations for certain violations including blocked exits, failure to maintain a fire sprinkler system, working without a permit, and transmitting preventable or “nuisance” alarms. Citations are non-criminal offenses with a penalty of $433+. You must respond to the Office of the Hearing Examiner within 15 days of receiving a citation and either pay the citation, or else request a mitigation hearing (if you agree you committed the violation but would like to make a case to have the penalty reduced) or to contest the citation (if you disagree you committed the violation). Read the back of your citation closely and carefully follow directions.
- Language Assistance If you need language assistance, please email SFD_FMO_Data@seattle.gov in your language or English, or call us at (206) 386-1450. We will provide translation assistance at no cost.