Fireworks displays and candlelit weddings are going to cost a little more in Fairfax County.
The Fire Marshal’s Office is updating the fire code and increasing or setting permit and inspection fees for several types of activities. New fees are proposed for social gatherings with open flames, the storage of fireworks and other activities.
The fees have to be approved by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. A June 25 public hearing is scheduled on the issue.
A day permit and prior inspection for open flames and candles at a public meeting or gatherings, such as a prom, could cost up to $50 if approved. A day permit and prior inspection for an indoor or outdoor fireworks display could cost $400.
Neither type of activity currently has a fee associated with it.
At least one official says the activities should be banned altogether.
In light of the recent verdict in the Rhode Island Great White concert fire that killed 100 people 2003, Fairfax Supervisor Dana Kauffman asked, “Why would we allow this anyway?”
The fees and associated inspections could, however, make activities safer.
“We would inspect it to make sure it conforms, that it is safe — make sure it was appropriate for the setting it was in, therefore minimizing the risk for the safety of the people,” said Dan Schmidt, Fairfax Fire and Rescue spokesman.
The fire code is updated every three years, but fees have not increased since 1997, Schmidt said.
Both the building and fire departments are working to revise and update fire codes to cover a number of issues including the growing densities of residential developments, said David McKernan, Fairfax’s deputy fire prevention chief.
Some potential permit and inspection fees
» Open flame and candles at public meeting or gathering: $50, previously $0
» One-year permit for open flame and candles at restaurant: $100, previously $0
» One-day outdoor or indoor fireworks display: $400, previously $0
