Received a Notice of Violation from Toronto Fire Services? Here is Your Action Plan

It is a sinking feeling every property manager or business owner dreads. You walk into your building and are handed a document from a Toronto Fire Services inspector. It’s titled "Notice of Violation" or "Inspection Order."

Your first instinct might be panic. Does this mean a fine? Are they shutting my business down?

Take a deep breath. A Notice of Violation is not a ticket, yet. It is a warning and an instruction. It means that during an inspection, your building was found to be non-compliant with the Ontario Fire Code.

However, the clock is ticking. If you ignore this notice, it can turn into heavy fines or court summons. Here is your step-by-step action plan to navigate the process and get your building back in the clear.

Step 1: Decode the Notice

Don't throw the paper in a drawer. Read the "Description of Violation" section carefully. The inspector will cite specific sections of the Ontario Fire Code (O. Reg. 213/07) that you are violating.

While violations can range from broken emergency lights to blocked exits, the most common citation for businesses in the GTA is Section 2.8: Emergency Planning.

If the notice mentions "Failure to establish and implement a Fire Safety Plan," or "Fire Safety Plan not approved," you cannot fix this with a toolbox. You need a formal document drafted and submitted for approval.

Step 2: Check the "Compliance Date"

Look for the date listed on the order. This is your deadline.

• Immediate Threats: Some issues (like blocked exits) must be fixed immediately.

• Paperwork/Retrofits: For things like creating a Fire Safety Plan, inspectors usually grant a reasonable window (often 15 to 30 days) to get the process started.

Pro Tip: If the deadline seems impossible, do not ignore it. Communication is key. If you can prove you have hired a consultant and the work is underway, inspectors are often willing to grant an extension.

Step 3: Do Not Attempt a "DIY" Fix for High-Risk Items

If your violation is for a missing Fire Safety Plan, you might be tempted to download a generic template online to save money. This is a common mistake that leads to a second violation.

Toronto Fire Services requires plans to be site-specific. They must include:

• Accurate floor plans showing all fire protection equipment.

• Specific procedures for your unique building type (e.g., High-rise vs. Industrial).

• Calculated occupant loads.

• Designated supervisory staff duties.

If you submit a generic template that doesn't match your building's reality, it will be rejected, and you will be back to square one—only closer to your deadline.

Step 4: The Submission Process

Once your Fire Safety Plan is professionally drafted, it must be submitted to the specific fire prevention office handling your case (e.g., Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, or Vaughan).

1. Drafting: Your consultant surveys the building and creates the text and drawings.

2. Submission: The plan is sent to the Fire Prevention division.

3. Review: The Fire Department reviews the plan (timelines vary by municipality).

4. Approval: Once approved, the plan is stamped and returned to you.

5. Implementation: You must place the plan in a lockbox and train your staff.

Step 5: Close the File

Once the work is done, you must notify the inspector. They may return to verify that the Fire Safety Plan is in the box and that the violations listed on the original notice have been rectified. Only then is the file closed.

What Happens If You Ignore the Notice?

If the compliance date passes and you haven't taken action, the "Notice" upgrades to a Summons. This means you are being charged under the Provincial Offences Act.

The penalties for Fire Code violations in Ontario are severe:

• Individuals: Fines of up to $50,000 and potential imprisonment.

• Corporations: Fines of up to $100,000.

Furthermore, insurance companies may void your policy if a fire occurs in a building with known, outstanding Fire Code violations.

The Fastest Way to Resolve a Violation

If you are holding a Notice of Violation right now, the most important thing you can do is show the inspector you are taking action.

At Sterling Safety, we specialize in fast-tracking Fire Safety Plans for businesses in Toronto and the GTA that are under an inspection order. We know exactly what the inspectors are looking for, and we can help you communicate with them to secure the time needed to get the job done right.

Need help interpreting your Notice of Violation?

Upload a photo of your Notice on our contact page or email thomas@sterlingsafety.ca for a free, confidential consultation.