Fire Prevention

Fire Prevention Staff
Lt. Colonel Allen Richard – Fire Inspector II - Fire Marshal
Troy V. Kerr – Fire Inspector II - Deputy Fire Marshal
Tim Brown - Fire Inspector I
Carl Thompson – Fire Inspector I
Gary Haley - Fire Inspector I
Kyle Brown - Fire Inspector I
Kent McCauley - Fire Inspector I

The Fire Prevention Bureau is under the direction of the District Fire Marshal. Fire Prevention Bureau conducts plan reviews of all multi-family residential, commercial, & industrial construction projects within the District. The Fire Prevention Bureau also conducts field inspections to ensure compliance with appropriate codes and ordinances in addition to taking appropriate action to correct unsafe conditions. The Fire Prevention Bureau, also provides educational fire safety programs to schools, businesses, and many other Civic and Community groups.

Codes Currently Enforced:

2018 Edition NFPA 1 – Uniform Fire Code
2018 Edition NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code
2018 Kentucky Building Code (Based on the 2015 International Building Code)
2016 Edition NFPA 13 – Installation of Sprinkler Systems
2016 Edition NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
2017 Edition NFPA 25 – Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water Based Fire Protection Systems
2017 Edition NFPA 70 – National Electric Code

Fire Safety Programs

If you have an interest in any of our fire safety programs or should you have any concerns or questions about fire safety, please feel free to contact our Fire Prevention office at 502-935-3878 or via email.

Recreational Burn Permit

If you are interested in a recreational burn permit or the regulations on Open Burning, Click Here.

Download Louisville Metro’s Open Burning Regulation Pamphlet Click Here

Need an Inspection of your Daycare from the State Fire Marshal's Office? Click the button.

State Fire Marshal Daycare Inspection

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I have a grill at my Apartment?

No. No hibachi, grill, or other similar devices used for cooking, heating, or any other purpose shall be used or kindled on any balcony, under any overhanging portion, or within 10 ft. of any structure or stored on a balcony.

Can I have a fire pit in my backyard?

Yes. A fire pit is an acceptable permanent or portable outdoor receptacle or device that meets certain specifications. The fire pit height cannot exceed 3 feet, and the fire pit opening (or burn area), cannot be larger than 3 ft. wide by 3 ft. long, or 3 ft. in diameter. (Click here) for Louisville Metro’s Open Burning Web Page.

What can I burn?

Only clean, dry firewood is allowed for any recreational fire. NO YARD WASTE!

Can I receive citation or be Fined for illegal burning?

YES! The Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is the issuing agency and can fine up to $1,000 for not complying to the Louisville Metro open burn ordinance.

What if my neighbor is burning stuff in their yard?

You can report illegal burn activities to Air Pollution Control District, or you can call 911 if you feel there is imminent danger.
You can report a nuisance to APCD by the following options:
- Online by clicking HERE
- Calling 502-574-6000
- Reporting via Metro311 by clicking HERE

When do I need a permit?

You will need a permit if you are having a bonfire or recreational fire that is on the ground, not contained in an acceptable fire pit or fire place.

What types of fires don’t need a permit?

If you are grilling or cooking food for non-commercial purposes, and the fire is the appropriate size for what you are cooking, you will not need a permit.

Recreational fires in a fire pit or outdoor fireplace do not require permits if they fall within the size requirements. Fires can be no larger than 3 ft. wide by 3 ft long by 3 ft tall.

Any other kind or size of recreational fire will need a permit.

How do I get a permit?

Permit application forms are available online here, or we can fax or mail one to you. Call (502) 574-6000 and ask for the Compliance Section. Tell them you’d like a burn permit.

Does Pleasure Ridge Park Fire inspect Recreational Vehicles or Campers?

No. Only the Kentucky Department of Building and Construction conducts RV, Camper & Mobile Home Inspection. This is now completed via Skype or other current real-time technology. Click HERE to download the Inspection Request form. Any questions, contact the Department of Building and Construction @ 502-573-1795. (There are currently NO fire departments in Jefferson County Conducting this type of Inspection)