Educational Occupancies

In Santee, CA

The City of Santee Fire Department conducts annual fire and life safety inspections for private and public elementary and high schools per the California Health and Safety Code §13146.3

Frequently Asked Questions

How will this program benefit me?

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA):

• Local fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated average of 3,230 fires in school properties from preschool through grade twelve from 2014 to 2018.
• The fires in these school properties caused an estimated average of one civilian death, 39 civilian injuries, and $37 million in direct property damage per year.

Fire can kill, disable, destroy property, and disrupt lives. Fire and life safety inspections are completed to educate and protect school districts and students from the devastating effects of fire. By promoting a safe living environment in these types of occupancies, the chance for fire, injury, and death decreases. 

Are these inspections required?

Yes. Inspections must be conducted annually. The California Health and Safety Code, Section §13146.3 mandates that the inspections be completed annually and further provides the City legal authority to charge property owners to recover costs for providing these inspections.

When will these inspections happen?

Inspections will be conducted by our fire inspector, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours from 8:00am until 5:00pm. Each property is inspected at approximately the same time of year. We will typically reach out prior to arrange inspection dates and times to ensure access to fire protection system components and coordinate availability with maintenance personnel.

What will be the area of focus during the Fire Department's Inspection?

A routine annual inspection will be conducted on the property with a primary goal of public education. A typical fire and life safety inspection verifies and confirms that: 

• Fire protection systems are being consistently maintained and fully operational
• Firefighter access routes and occupant emergency exits remain clear and unobstructed
• Storage areas and housekeeping practices meet all minimum safety code requirements
• Utilities and fire protection equipment are readily accessible, properly labeled, and prepared for immediate use

How will I know the results of the inspection on my school?

During the routine inspection, the Inspector will make sure we have up-to-date contact information to provide an inspection report to the appropriate persons.

How can I prepare for my inspection?

We are currently working on an inspection checklist for school districts. TBD.

How much does this cost?

Fees are on the time required to complete the inspection and the support needed to recover the costs of the fire inspector (i.e. inspection and re-inspection time, vehicle maintenance, fuel, training, supplies, and administrative support). The following fee is provided for your convenience but is subject to change based on updates to the City’s Master Fee Schedule. 

After an inspection has been performed, an invoice is issued.

The Santee Fire Department utilizes Fire Recovery USA, a private billing company, to issue these inspection invoices and collect payments. If you have any questions about your invoice and payment, please contact Fire Recovery USA at (888) 640-7222.