The Fire Prevention Division has the responsibility of Fire Code compliance in the City of Union City.  Inspections cover two different areas; new buildings are inspected during construction to assure that the Building and Fire Code requirements are met.  At the time of the final inspection, the Building and Fire Departments complete final inspections to assure that all code requirements are completed.  Also during this time, tests are made on fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, and special fire extinguishing systems, such as: spray booths, hood and duct systems, and dip tanks.  Following these inspections, the Certificate of Occupancy is issued, and the building is occupied.

The California Fire Code (CFC) adopted by City Ordinance specifies fire prevention requirements and enforcement procedures that are essential for an effective fire prevention program.  The CFC provides a document that is recognized as authoritative by architects, engineers, and builders who are generally familiar with code requirements.  The CFC provides an interpretation process for code requirements, allows local fire prevention codes to be written, has the ability to adopt nationally recognized codes, and is subjected to periodic revision to reflect new technology and current thinking.

The fire marshal administers the business inspection program while the fire inspectors and firefighters perform the inspections.  The main focus of these inspections is "enforcement through education."  This commitment to pro-active fire prevention activities continues to result in reducing or eliminating fire losses.

Fire Safety Inspections are vital to the safety and well being of the citizens and businesses of Union City.  A fire Safety Inspection Program is where true "prevention " of fires happens by identification of possible areas where a fire may start by an inspector.  This information is then related to the business owner along with possible solutions to have progressed well with very few compliance letters being sent out to the city business.