The bill aims to enhance the regulation of fire protection sprinkler systems by ensuring that all work is conducted by licensed contractors and certified fitters. It introduces new provisions that require the state director of fire protection or their representative to investigate alleged violations of the law. Fire code officials are empowered to request evidence of licensing from contractors, and failure to provide such evidence will be considered an infraction. Additionally, if a contractor is found to be unlicensed or in violation of the law, fire code officials can issue stop work orders until compliance is achieved. The bill also allows fire code officials to assess whether public safety necessitates the removal or replacement of sprinkler systems installed by unlicensed contractors.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that fire protection sprinkler system contractors must provide relevant payroll records during active investigations. Amendments to existing law clarify the roles of fire code officials and the requirements for certification in fire protection sprinkler fitting work. The changes include the removal of outdated language and the introduction of new definitions and procedures to ensure compliance and enhance public safety in fire protection practices.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 18.270.070
Substitute bill: 18.270.070