SB 397 - This act requires certification for contractors who engage in the installation of fire sprinkler systems or service fire sprinkler systems. The certification requirement does not apply to retailers, inspections by government officials, or special agent fire suppression systems. The registration statutes and rules have uniform effect throughout the state. However, municipalities, counties, and other local governmental bodies are authorized to enact or enforce additional registration or licensing requirements that meet or exceed the registration required by this act. A municipality, county, or other local governmental body can also require a contractor to obtain a permit, or pay a fee, in order to install a system. This act also creates the Fire Sprinkler Advisory Council. The council shall have seven members with various experience in this field. The fire sprinkler advisory council is given authority to promulgate rules. Such rules shall concern registration of contractors, the standards for assessing competency as a fire sprinkler contractor, applicable fees, and procedures for reciprocity with other states. The State Fire Marshal shall administer these provisions.
A contractor must apply with the State Fire Marshal for a certificate of registration and pay an application fee for a certificate. The fee will be set by the advisory council. The fees will be deposited in the Fire Sprinkler Contractor Registration Fund. The act also sets out the requirements that a contractor must meet to obtain a certificate of registration, including demonstration of their own knowledge, or employment of persons with experience and certification in the area.
Certificates of registration are valid for two years and are not transferable. A fee shall be charged for duplicate certificates or changes to a certificate. Each certificate must be posted in a conspicuous place in the contractor's business. The act outlines the process and fees for renewal of unexpired or expired certificates. The State Fire Marshal is obligated to send out written notice at least thirty days prior to a certificate expiring.
The State Fire Marshal shall not issue a certificate of registration unless the applicant files evidence of general liability insurance of not less than one million dollars per year for all occurrences.
The State Fire Marshal is authorized to file a disciplinary complaint against certified contractors for specific violations. After the Administrative Hearing Commission finds that grounds for discipline are met, the advisory council may place the contractor on probation, or suspend or revoke the contractor's certification.
The State Fire Marshal is authorized to seek an injunction against contractors who operate without certification or present a danger to a state resident.
This act is similar to SB 927 (2010) and HB 2132 (2010).
EMILY KALMER