New Jersey Uniform Fire Code (UFC)

What It Is

The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and premises and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

How It Works

The Uniform Fire Code is designed to assure that fire safety provisions in existing buildings are maintained and that specific target hazards are retrofitted with fire protection systems, fire resistive construction or other fire safety features that the state has identified as benefiting the health, safety and welfare of the public. Buildings and their associated occupancies are broken down in two categories, Life Hazard Uses and Non Life Hazard Uses. Life Hazard Uses (LHUs) must be registered with the state. Both Life Hazard Uses and Non Life Hazard Uses are inspected in accordance with the code. The UFC is provides for temporary situations such as special events, tents, canopies, construction site safety and use of flame producing equipment.

Who Enforces It

The primary responsibility of the Fire Official is the enforcement of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and other local fire safety regulations. Major activities within the scope of this office include:

• Inspections of Life Hazard Uses
• Inspections of Non-Life Hazard Uses (except owner-occupied one - and two-family dwellings)
• Fire Safety Complaints
• Fire Permit Control
• Fire investigations to determine origin and cause