Tupelo Fire Department Support Services

Code Enforcement/Inspections

Currently, the three fire inspectors are tasked with enforcing the Fire Prevention Code.  All new businesses or changes in use of structures are required to possess a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO is required in order to obtain electrical service and a fire inspection is required for a CO.  Our goal is to provide a CO inspection within twenty fours hours of a request.  A temporary CO may be issued in some instances, however, deficiencies must be corrected in the allotted time.  To prevent delays in opening your business, plan for an early inspection or schedule a pre-inspection meeting.   Requests for an inspection can be made by contacting the Fire Prevention Division at 662-841-6439.  Businesses needing annual inspections for licensing or insurance requirements should contact the inspectors  to schedule appointment.

Typical Code Questions:

Can I burn yard waste or rubbish within the City Limits?

The City Ordinance prohibits the burning of waste or rubbish.

What is the current code version used by the City?

The City adopted the 2006 International Fire Code with amendments B, C and D and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101 Life Safety Code, 2006 ed.

Can fireworks be sold in the City of Tupelo?

The code prohibits the sale, storage, distribution, possession  and discharge of fireworks within the city limits.  Exceptions are professionally qualified and insured pyrotechnics operators.  A fireworks permit is required.

What are the general requirements to pass a fire safety inspection?

The requirements vary from one occupancy class to another.  In general,  you must have a minimum of one working fire extinguisher, exit/emergency lighting, address numbers readable from the street, and meet the occupancy specific requirements.  For more specific information please contact the Fire Prevention Division.

Fire Prevention and Education Programs

The Tupelo Fire Department always seeks to find an audience for Fire Safety Education.  Should your club, group, or class desire a speaker or presentation we provide a variety of methods:

            Station Tours

            Engine Company Visits

            Classes and Seminars

            Club Speakers

Training Center Demonstrations

Smoke Detector Program

Smoke detectors are your first line of notification in the event of a fire in the home.  In an attempt to reduce the risk of fires in the home the department started a smoke detector give-away program in 1995.  To date over 2000 smoke detectors have been provided to members of the community.  Our target audience with the program has been high risk groups such as single parents and senior citizens.   This program has been funded only through contributions from local businesses and grants.  If you know of anyone in need of a smoke detector or have questions about the program contact the Fire Prevention Division at 662-841-6439.

The program has expanded in include smoke detectors for the hearing impaired.  If you know of someone in the community in need of these specialized smoke detectors please contact us