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Fire Inspection Process for Child Care Centers:

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) conducts fire inspections in all childcare centers that are applying for a new license or those that may already be licensed by the Department of Early Learning (DEL). DEL is the state licensing authority for childcare centers. DEL requires approval from the OSFM before licensing a facility and may suspend a current license if the OSFM identifies uncorrected hazards. Child care centers are inspected to the International Fire Code, all applicable state amendments and to the Washington Administrative Code 212-12. The OSFM does not conduct inspections on home childcare facilities.

When an applicant applies for a new childcare licenses, or there has been an environmental change, or critical assessment needed at an existing childcare center then a DEL licensor submits a fire inspection request to the OSFM. Within 30 days of receipt a Deputy State Fire Marshal (DSFM) will contact the applicant/operator and schedule an inspection.

If needed, the DSFM will schedule a re-inspection at a time agreeable to both the applicant and the DSFM. During the re-inspection the DSFM will confirm that all previously noted deficiencies have been corrected. The OSFM will notify the DEL when the facility is approved for fire safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q. Do I need to contact the SFMO to schedule a fire inspection?
A. No, when you apply for a license with DEL they will request an inspection and a DSFM will contact you to schedule a visit.

Q. What if I disagree with a citation that the DSFM wrote up?
A. You can initiate an Administrative Appeal per WAC 212-12-030.

Q. If the DSFM cites any concerns when will he/she be back to re-inspect my corrections?
A. Your DSFM will work with you to agree on a time that works for both of you.

Q. What is the status of my license request?
A. DEL is the licensing agency and questions should be directed to your DEL licensor.

Q. What code does the Fire Marshal use for inspections?
A. Washington State has adopted the International Fire Code.

Q. What if I want to open a Childcare Center but I don’t know if the facility will pass code?
A. The OSFM does not have a feasibility process and can not conduct any pre-licensing facility reviews, however it is not uncommon for providers to seek a third party contractor or consultant to review facilities to the fire code.

Q. What about a home childcare fire inspection?
A. If you want an inspection or have been directed to get a home childcare fire inspection you can request your local Fire Department to conduct an inspection. It is the Fire Department’s option (not requirement) to conduct the fire inspection for you.

For additional information please contact:

Acting Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Barbara McMullen
Email: Barbara.McMullen@wsp.wa.gov
Telephone: (360) 596-3911

Mailing Address:
210 11th Avenue Southwest
Olympia, WA 98504-2600

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