Fire License Delhi
What is a Fire License?
A Fire License is an official approval given by the authority of the State Government. It confirms that a building or premises follows the required fire safety rules and standards. This certificate is compulsory for certain types of businesses like commercial, industrial, or public buildings before they can start operating. It ensures that the place is safe from fire risks and meets the legal safety requirements set under state fire safety laws and building rules.
Who Needs a Fire License?
Fire Safety NOC is mandatory for high-rise buildings with a height of more than 15 meters (as specified in Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD Delhi) or multi-story buildings like:
- Educational Buildings like Universities, Colleges, Schools, etc.
- Workspace Buildings like Offices
- Residential Occupancy for commercial usage
- Commercialized Buildings like Malls, Cinema Halls, etc.
- Mercantile Buildings (Warehouses, Shops, etc.
- Hazardous and Industrial Buildings
- HealthCare Buildings like Nursing Home, Hospital, etc.
Benefits of Having a Fire License
1. Statutory Compliance
In business, especially in a commercial or high-rise building, getting a fire license isn’t optional, it’s legally required. It shows that your workplace meets the fire safety rules set by the local government, helping you avoid penalties or legal trouble down the road.
2. Public Safety and Risk Mitigation
A fire license means your building has been checked and approved for fire safety. That includes fire extinguishers, alarms, exits, and emergency plans all of which are crucial to protect your employees, customers, and property if a fire ever happens.
3. Legal Enforceability and Claims
Operating a business having a valid fire license strengthens your legal position. You’re more likely to get fair treatment during legal claims or insurance issues if you've followed all the safety rules from the start.
4. Insurance Facilitation
Many insurance companies look for a fire license before giving you coverage. Some might even offer lower premiums if you have one. And if you ever have to make a claim, having a license makes the whole process faster and smoother.
5. Reputation and Goodwill
Having compliance with fire safety norms projects makes you a responsible and safety-conscious organization. This enhances the trust of clients, customers, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders in the entity’s operations.
6. Due Diligence and Internal Control
Obtaining a Fire License entails a comprehensive fire safety audit by the competent fire authority, promoting internal review of infrastructure, hazard identification, and remedial actions. It also means your team needs to be trained in how to prevent fires and what to do in an emergency. In short, it helps build a safety-first culture at your workplace.
Requirements
Documents Required
Fire Safety Requirements
Documents Required for Fire License Application
For obtaining Fire Department NOC following Documents are required -
- Building Plan: Approved layout and architectural designs for buildings in Delhi.
- Fire Safety System Details: Information on installed fire alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers, and exits in Delhi.
- Occupancy Certificate: Proof of building use approval from local authorities in Delhi.
- NOC from Local Authorities: No Objection Certificate from municipal or town authorities in Delhi.
- Owner/Business Details: Identity proof and business registration documents for businesses in Delhi.
- Photo ID proof (i.e. Aadhar Card, Election Card, Passport etc.)
Additional documents may be requested based on the type of building and specific requirements of the Delhi Fire Services. Always check the latest checklist on the official Delhi Fire Services website before applying.
Mandatory Fire Safety Requirements for Fire License (NOC) in Delhi
To obtain a Fire License (also known as Fire NOC) from the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), buildings must comply with specific fire safety norms laid out in the Delhi Fire Service Rules, 2010, Unified Building Bye Laws (UBBL) 2016, and the National Building Code (NBC). Below is a simplified overview of the key requirements:
1. Applicability of Fire NOC
- Before construction – For approval of building plans and fire safety design recommendations.
- After construction – For verification of implemented fire safety systems and issuance of the Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) before occupancy.
2. Staircase Requirements
Minimum width:
- General buildings: 1.5 meters
- Assembly buildings (auditoriums, halls, etc.): 2.0 meters
- Steps:
- Tread (horizontal): Minimum 30 cm
- Riser (vertical): Maximum 15 cm
Handrails:
- Height: Between 1000 mm and 1200 mm
- Spacing between balusters: Maximum 150 mm
External staircases:
- Minimum width: 1.25 meters
- Must terminate at the ground or stilt level, not in the basement
Travel distance:
- Must comply with NBC standards
- A building with full sprinkler coverage is allowed a 1% increase in the permissible travel distance
3. Automatic Sprinkler Systems
Mandatory in:
- Basements exceeding 200 square meters
- High-rise buildings and certain occupancies as per fire norms
4. Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
- Installation of fire alarm systems and carbon monoxide detectors is mandatory
- Equipment must comply with DFS-approved technical standards
5. Refuge Area (A safe spot inside a building, usually on a special floor, where people can wait safely during a fire or emergency until help arrives or they can be evacuated.)
- Required for buildings taller than 24 meters
- Must be provided as per UBBL 2016 norms to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies
6. Fire Safety Doors
- Buildings with more than 10 occupants per floor must have:
- Fire-rated doors with minimum one-hour fire resistance at each floor level
7. Water Supply for Firefighting
- The building must have an internal fire water tank with:
- A replenishment rate of 1000 liters per minute
8. Responsibility for Fire Safety Systems
The building owner or occupier is responsible for:
- Installation
- Regular inspection
- Maintenance of all fire safety systems in accordance with DFS requirements
Application Process of Fire License/NOC in Delhi
Step 1: Applicability of the party
Before applying, check whether your building/project falls under the categories that require a Fire NOC under the Delhi Fire Service Act, 2007 and Unified Building Bye-laws (UBBL) 2016. A Fire NOC is mandatory before construction begins in the following cases:
- Residential buildings taller than 15m (or ground + 4 floors)
- Hotels/guest houses taller than 12m (or ground + 3 floors)
- Schools/colleges taller than 9m (or ground + 2 floors)
- Hospitals, malls, offices, factories, underground structures, and public gathering spaces (more than 100 people)
Exemption: Pure residential buildings (unless used commercially).
Step 2: Submit Application
- Visit the official Delhi Fire Service DFS Portal to download Form I – "Application for Grant of Fire Safety Certificate" and other related forms required for fire safety certification
- After filling in the form attach all the necessary documents as mentioned before in the required format:
- Building plan approved by the competent authority
- Checklist of fire safety installations
- Affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper
- Structural stability certificate
- Ownership or occupancy proof
Ensure that all documents are submitted in the correct format as prescribed by the DFS.
Step 3: Fire Department Inspection
- After receiving your application and documents, the Delhi Fire Department will schedule a physical inspection of the premises.
- During the inspection, officials will verify compliance with fire safety norms, including:
- Fire extinguishers & alarms (as per IS 2190 & IS 2189)
- Emergency exits & staircases (width, number, fire doors, pressurization (A system that helps in keeping the area filled with clean air, so smoke doesn’t enter, making it safer for people to escape during a fire.)
- Water storage & hydrants (underground/overhead tanks as per IS 15105)
- Smoke ventilation & fire lifts (NBC 2016 compliance)
- Electric Systems & Backup Generators
- Sprinkler Systems & Signage
Step 4: Fire NOC Issuance
- After the inspection if the building complies with all fire safety requirements, the Fire License/NOC will be issued.
- The NOC is generally valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the type and size of the building.
- Fees for obtaining the Fire NOC range from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000, based on the building’s usage and floor area.
Note: If your building does not meet the fire safety standards, the department will provide a compliance notice. You will be given a specific timeline to make the necessary changes and schedule a re-inspection.
Step 5: Renewal & Compliance
Once you receive the Fire License/NOC, you must continue to maintain compliance:
- Annual Fire Safety Audits are mandatory and must be conducted by authorized professionals.
- Renew your Fire NOC at least 60 days before its expiry date.
- Maintain fire safety equipment and systems in operational condition at all times.
- Non-compliance or delay in renewal may lead to penalties, cancellation of the NOC, or even closure of the premises under applicable laws.
In case of doubts, you can take legal references for better understanding of the guidelines of the Delhi Government
- National Building Code of India, 2016 (Part 4 – Fire and Life Safety) – BIS Guidelines
It outlines the minimum requirements for fire prevention, life safety in relation to fire, and fire protection for buildings.
- MCD Fire Safety Circulars – MCD Portal
These platforms offer valuable information on fire safety requirements, application procedures for Fire Safety Certificates, and other related services.
Governing Rules & Authorities for Delhi
The Delhi Fire Service is the enforcement and certifying authority under the Delhi Fire Service Act, 2007.
It is responsible for:
- Issuing Fire Safety Certificates (Fire NOC)
- Conducting inspections and audits
- Taking enforcement actions, including issuing notices and recommending sealing of premises through MCD in case of serious violations
DFS Act & Rules
NBC 2016
MCD
Delhi Fire Service Act, 2007 & Delhi Fire Service Rules, 2010
Section 14 of the DFS Act
This section empowers officers of the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) to inspect any premises to verify whether:
- A valid Fire License/NOC has been obtained.
- The premises comply with fire safety measures as per the approved plan.
Section 17 – Penalties for Obstruction:
Any individual who obstructs or interferes with the duties of fire officers (such as during inspection or enforcement) is liable for penalties or legal action under this section.
National Building Code of India (NBC 2016)
The National Building Code (NBC) 2016, issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), lays down technical standards for fire safety and protection in buildings across India.
- Part 4 of NBC 2016 specifically deals with Fire and Life Safety, detailing:
- Minimum fire safety norms for different building types
- Requirements for fire exits, alarms, sprinklers, ventilation systems, etc.
- Guidelines for design, occupancy classification, and fire-fighting infrastructure
Note: Compliance with NBC 2016 is mandatory for buildings that require Fire NOCs under the Delhi Fire Service Act and Unified Building Bye-laws (UBBL) 2016.
Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) / Delhi Fire Service (DFS)
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is the local civic authority responsible for:
- Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations before granting or renewing building approvals
- Implementing building codes, zoning, and safety provisions laid out by the UBBL and NBC
- Acting as the sealing authority in case of fire safety violations or non-compliance
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Violation | Penalty (Section 20, DFS Act, 2007) | Additional Consequences |
Operating without Fire NOC | Fine up to ₹50,000 + Imprisonment up to 3 years (for repeat offenders) | Sealing of premises (MCD Orders) |
Non-compliance with fire safety norms | Notice → Prosecution → Closure (Sec. 13, DFS Act) | Insurance claim rejection |
False information in application Delays in renewal of the NOC attract daily penalties: | Cancellation of License + Legal action (Sec. 19)
| Blacklisting of establishment Imprisonment for up to six months and fines ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹50,000 |
Do's, Don'ts & Expert Tips
Do's | Don’ts | Expert Tips |
Submit all required documents accurately. | Don’t skip or miss any essential documents. | Double-check your documents with the DFS checklist before submission. |
Follow fire safety norms as per the National Building Code (NBC) 2016 and Delhi Fire Service Rules. | Don’t violate or ignore fire safety and building norms. | Consult a fire safety consultant or architect familiar with NBC standards. |
Use the latest and accurate building/site plans for the application. | Don’t submit outdated or incorrect architectural plans. | Double-check your plans before you submit them to the building authority (like MCD or DDA) since they don’t check it whether it's the most recent version or not. So, save yourself the stress, get it signed off by the architect and re-verified if needed." |
Refer to the Fire Department’s official checklist before applying. | Don’t ignore important layout details like emergency exits or equipment points. | Mark fire exits, hydrants, and extinguisher locations clearly on the plan. Since the inspector might create last minute cancellation. |
Apply for Fire NOC early in the construction or planning stage. | Don’t wait until the building is complete to apply. | Apply for the Fire NOC as early as possible seriously. I learned the hard way that it's not just some form you fill out at the end |
Install ISI-marked or approved fire safety equipment. | Don’t install substandard or non-compliant fire systems. | Use equipment conforming to IS 2190, IS 2189, and relevant BIS codes. |
Conduct internal fire safety audits and mock drills. | Don’t skip staff training or safety preparedness activities. | Maintain audit reports and training attendance logs for inspections. |
Track and renew your Fire License/NOC on time. | Don’t let your Fire NOC expire; it can halt your operations. | Apply for renewal at least 60 days before expiry to avoid penalties. |
Treat fire compliance as a serious legal and safety responsibility. | Don’t treat the Fire License as just a paperwork formality. | Non-compliance can lead to sealing of premises and legal action. |
How DigiLawyer Can Help?
At DigiLawyer, we offer end-to-end support to make your Fire License process smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
Consultation - We assess your business type, building category, and guide you on whether a Fire NOC is required and what rules apply in your state or city.
Documentation Assistance - Our team helps you gather and prepare all necessary documents such as building layout plans, fire safety equipment details, ownership/occupancy certificates, and more.
Filing & Application - We handle the entire online or offline application process on your behalf including submission to the Fire Department, scheduling inspections, and follow-ups.
Renewal & Compliance Support - We help you stay compliant by tracking your renewal deadlines, assisting with updated inspections, and ensuring continued fire safety compliance as per state regulations.
But our support doesn’t end once you get your Fire License. We also assist with ongoing compliance and timely renewals, making sure your business stays aligned with updated fire safety norms. With DigiLawyer by your side, you can focus on running your business confidently, knowing that your fire safety requirements are in expert hands.
FAQs Related to Fire License Registration
A Fire License is required for buildings and establishments where people gather or work. This includes factories, offices, malls, hotels, hospitals, schools, and high-rise residential complexes. It is mandatory for any multi-storey building above 15 meters in height. The license ensures compliance with fire safety regulations and legal requirements.
To apply for a Fire License in Delhi, download Form I from the official Delhi Fire Service portal, fill it out, and submit it with required documents like the approved building plan, fire safety checklist, affidavit, structural stability certificate, and ownership proof in the prescribed format.
After submitting and paying the fee (if required), your premises will be inspected, and if compliant, the Fire License will be issued.
For Fire License registration in Delhi, the following documents are required:
- Approved building plan
- Details of fire safety systems (alarms, extinguishers, exits, etc.)
- Occupancy certificate
- NOC from local municipal authorities
- Owner/business identity and registration proof
- Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)
While the Delhi Fire Department does not charge any government fees for issuing a Fire License, you will need to pay a professional fee if you hire a consultant to handle the application. The cost depends on your building type and documentation requirements.
The validity period of a Fire License (Fire Safety Certificate) in Delhi is 5 years for residential buildings (other than hotels) and 3 years for non-residential buildings from the date of issue. It must be renewed before expiry to maintain compliance with fire safety regulations
Obtaining a Fire NOC (No Objection Certificate) typically takes 3 to 4 weeks, provided all required documents are submitted correctly and the premises meet fire safety standards.
Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or if the premises fail to meet safety standards.
No, a Fire License and a Fire NOC are not the same thing.
- A Fire NOC (No Objection Certificate) is given by the fire department before a building is used or during construction or major renovations. It confirms that the building meets fire safety rules.
- A Fire License, on the other hand, is a permit required to run a business or facility. It ensures that proper fire safety measures are in place and maintained during daily operations.
To renew your Fire License (Fire Safety Certificate), you must apply at least six months before its expiration date.
- Submit a filled Form ‘J’ (available on the Delhi Fire Service website) along with a copy of your current Fire Safety Certificate to the official email ID (director.dIfire@nic.in) of the Director.
- After submission, your premises may be inspected before renewal approval is granted.
A Fire NOC is required for residential buildings in Delhi only if the building is taller than 15 meters without stilt parking, or taller than 17.5 meters with stilt parking. Residential buildings below these height limits do not need a Fire NOC
Yes, you can apply for a fire license online in Delhi through the official portal. If you have any confusion or need help at any step, DigiLawyer can act on your behalf, handling documentation, filing, and coordination with authorities to make the process completely hassle-free for you.
You can check the status of your fire license application by logging into the official Delhi Fire Service portal. After logging in, enter your application number and date to view the current status and any updates related to your application
Yes, Digilawyer offers online assistance for Fire NOC applications, including document preparation, filing, and coordination with the Delhi Fire Service—handled entirely online for your convenience
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