This bill updates the New Hampshire fire code by adopting the 2024 editions of the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and the Uniform Fire Code (NFPA 1), replacing the previous 2021 editions. It also modifies the procedures for reporting and investigating fires, requiring fire departments to report incidents to the state fire marshal within 10 days. The state fire marshal is granted additional authority to investigate fires and building collapses, particularly those with suspicious origins, and to compel witness attendance. Furthermore, the bill allows the office of professional licensure and certification to share business contact information of mechanical safety and licensing board licensees with the fire marshal to assist inspectors.

Additionally, the bill introduces new duties for the state fire marshal, including the ability to charge inspection fees for electrical and mechanical safety inspections requested by property owners or contractors. It specifies that these fees will follow an existing fee schedule and allows the state fire marshal to conduct inspections if local officials are unavailable. The bill also ratifies all amendments to the fire code approved by the board of fire control as of December 31, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance fire safety measures and streamline the inspection process while potentially increasing state revenue through inspection fees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 153:1, 153:18, 153:4-a, 153:34, 319-C:5
SB494 text: 153:1, 153:18, 153:4-a, 153:34, 319-C:5