FAQs • Bristol, CT • CivicEngage

I own an apartment building. How often must it be inspected?: The State of Connecticut General Statue Title 29 Chapter 541, Section 29-305 mandates that each local fire marshal shall inspect or cause to be inspected at least once each calendar year and as often as necessary in the interest of public safety all apartment buildings within their jurisdiction. A pamphlet was created by your local Fire Marshal’s Office explaining the City of Bristol Fire Marshal’s Apartment Building Inspection Program.
The pamphlet explains the objective, procedure, most commonly asked questions, procedures to change an apartment building to a two family residence, and procedure for building permits for fire code updates. This is a must read for existing apartment building owners and future owners. A copy can be obtained by calling (860) 584-7964 ext. 8102.More Information

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Fire Department

1. Can I burn brush at my home?: The answer to this question is no. A permit will not be given for the burning of brush at a residence. For details see City Ordinance Section 7-17 Open Burning.

2. How do I get a copy of a report?: If it is an incident report or an inspection report; call the Fire Marshal’s Office at (860) 584-7964 ext. 8102, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm with the date and address of the incident or the address of the building that was inspected. A copy of the completed report will be made available via mail, fax, or pickup. The cost is $0.50 per page payable at the time of request.

3. Can I drop off hazardous materials at city fire stations?: No, do not drop off hazardous materials at the city fire stations.

4. How do I get an inspection of a coal / wood / pellet stove installation?: Inspections of coal / wood / pellet stoves are only by permit through the Building Department. Call the Building Department for details at (860) 584-6215.

5. I own an apartment building. How often must it be inspected?: The State of Connecticut General Statue Title 29 Chapter 541, Section 29-305 mandates that each local fire marshal shall inspect or cause to be inspected at least once each calendar year and as often as necessary in the interest of public safety all apartment buildings within their jurisdiction. A pamphlet was created by your local Fire Marshal’s Office explaining the City of Bristol Fire Marshal’s Apartment Building Inspection Program.
The pamphlet explains the objective, procedure, most commonly asked questions, procedures to change an apartment building to a two family residence, and procedure for building permits for fire code updates. This is a must read for existing apartment building owners and future owners. A copy can be obtained by calling (860) 584-7964 ext. 8102. More Information

6. How many inches of water do I have to have in my basement before the Fire Department will pump it out?: Six inches

7. Where can I get sand bags in the event of flooding?: Sand bags are available at Engine Company 4 on 17 Vincent P. Kelly and Engine Company 5 on 285 Mix Street. The sand is available at the City Yard.

8. Can I have a campfire in my yard?: Yes, and no. While backyard campfires may be allowed in certain circumstances, any fire that does not follow the guidelines of the burning ordinance, or creates any type of hazard as determined by the fire officer on scene, will be extinguished. Ordinance Information

9. How do I schedule a fire safety presentation?: Call the Fire Prevention Division at 860-584-7964 ext. 8104, M-F between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and you will be directed to the proper person to schedule your presentation.

10. When can I bring my child in for a fire house tour?: Anytime! The only caveat is that they may be on a call, or may have to go on a call while you’re visiting.

11. Does Bristol have volunteer firefighters?: No, Bristol Fire Department is a career department with no volunteer staff.

12. What do I have to do to become a Bristol firefighter?: You can fill out an online application on the Personnel page on the City of Bristol website.

13. Can I get smoke/CO detectors for my home?: Yes, the Bristol Fire Department does have a program targeting one- and two-family dwellings of low-moderate income families. More Information

14. What can I do to prepare for an emergency?: The best thing is to plan ahead. Refer to DEMHS, GetReady CT, FEMA sites for a wealth of information regarding emergency planning in the home. As with fire exit drills, the best thing to do is make a plan and practice that plan regularly.

15. What can I do if my child sets or plays with fire?: Contact the BFD’s juvenile fire setter program at 860-584-7952.

16. Does the Bristol Fire Department have an explorer program?: Although the BFD does not have an explorer program, there is an active intern program administered through the local high school guidance departments.