Service overview
You need this license to do work on fire suppression systems, including:
- Installation.
- Alteration.
- Repair.
- Testing.
- Maintenance.
- Inspection or certification.
Fire suppression systems workers must work for a contractor. This license does not authorize you to operate a business.
The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues this license.
Related licenses
Licensed fire suppression apprentices can perform work under a registered apprenticeship program and under the supervision of a person possessing the required fire suppression systems worker license.
To perform inspections or testing on existing water-based fire protection systems, you also need a Fire Suppression Worker—Specialty License. You don’t need this to certify newly installed systems.
If you only work on commercial kitchen fire extinguishing systems, you may be eligible for a Fire Suppression Worker—Kitchen Fire Extinguishing System License instead.
Who
Fire suppression systems workers can apply for this license.
Requirements
Experience
You must show proof of successful completion of a registered fire suppression system apprentice program. The program must be registered with the United States Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Council.
Certification
You must show proof of having completed a registered fire suppression system apprenticeship program. This program must include a minimum of 8,000 hours of documented hands-on experience in installing or maintaining fire suppression systems and at least 800 hours of classroom, shop, or related instruction in the fire suppression trade. Additionally, you must pass the Philadelphia Fire Suppression Installer/Worker examination, which is administered by the International Code Council.
The exam must reference the current version of the Philadelphia Code and associated standards or your application must be submitted within 12 months of successful completion of the exam.
Alternatively, you can submit similar authorization granted by any other state or local jurisdiction with equal or greater qualification requirements. This is subject to approval by the L&I.
Photo identification
2 in. x 2 in., color
Where and when
Online
You can apply online using eCLIPSE.
If you need help filing your application online, you can schedule a virtual appointment.
In person
You need an appointment to visit the Permit and License Center in person.
Permit and License Center
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
MSB, Public Service Concourse
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Office hours: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Offices close at noon on the last Wednesday of each month.
Cost
If you renew your license more than 60 days after the due date, you will be charged 1.5% of the license fee for each month since the license expired.
Payment methods and details
Accepted payment methods
| Where | Accepted payment |
|---|---|
| Online through the eCLIPSE application
(There is a $500,000 limit for online payments.) |
|
| In person at the Permit and License Center in the Municipal Services Building |
|
| In person at the Cashier’s Station in the Municipal Services Building
(Items paid at the Cashier’s Station will be mailed within five business days.) |
|
Credit and debit card payments
Surcharges and fees are applied automatically to all credit and debit card transactions.
Checks and money orders
Check requirements
- Make all checks and money orders payable to the “City of Philadelphia.”
- The individual or company listed on the check must be listed on the application.
- Personal checks are accepted.
- Checks and money orders must have issue dates within 12 months of the transaction.
Reasons your check may be rejected
L&I will not accept checks that are missing depository information or are:
- Unsigned.
- Expired.
- Post-dated.
- Starter checks without account info.
Returned payment policy
If your check is returned unpaid for insufficient or uncollected funds:
- You will be charged a $20 fee for collection.
- You authorize the City of Philadelphia or its agent to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account to collect this fee directly.
- The City of Philadelphia or its agent may re-present your check electronically to your depository institution for payment.
- If the City is unable to obtain payment, the license, permit, or appeal application will be void.
- You cannot take any additional action under a permit until you have paid all fees.
- The permit or license will be revoked if the outstanding fees are not paid within 30 days.
- You cannot file or obtain additional permits until you resolve the outstanding debt.
Late license payment
If you renew your license more than 60 days after the due date, you will be charged 1.5% of the license fee for each month since the license expired.
How
You can apply for this license online using eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Online
Applications are reviewed within five business days.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
In person
L&I can review most applications while you wait.
Renewal requirements
You must renew this license every three years. You can renew online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
All renewal applications submitted on or after March 15, 2025 must include proof of successful completion of at least 24 continuing education hours of course work in current NFPA standards through a Department of Labor and Industry approved provider, acquired during the prior 3 year period. In lieu of continuing education credits, you can include one of the following:
- Current NICET (level II or higher) Certification
- Current ASSE Water-Based Fire Protection Certification