Agenda Item Wording:
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Fire Department rates and fees - Modification to Fire Department's inspection-related rates and fees schedule to adjust fees to a current rate and to simplify the fee structure to accommodate the City's new business license software.
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Agenda Date: 03/16/2026
Prepared by: Corbin Reed, Fire Marshal, corbin.reed@visalia.gov, 559-713-4272 Dan Griswold, Fire Chief, dan.griswold@visalia.gov, 559-713-4220
Department Recommendation: Staff recommends the Council conduct a public hearing to adopt Resolution No. 2026-11 adopting the proposed fee schedule, including the removal of the fee cap specific to apartment complex inspections.
Summary:
The Fire Department has fees for fire and life safety inspections, reinspections, operational permits, and apartment complexes. It was identified during the implementation of the City's new business tax license software that the current fee structure and procedure was not readily compatible with the software. Fire Administration used this opportunity to research and identify a more suitable fee structure and to evaluate and update current fee rates if appropriate.
Background discussion:
The Visalia Fire Department has conducted annual fire and life safety inspections since the early 1990s. Fire and life safety inspections are conducted by both Fire Prevention staff and by engine companies. During the August 16, 2010 City Council meeting, the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 rates and fees were amended to include a $20 Operational Business Inspection Fee for fire and life safety inspections. The fees were implemented to offset the cost of performing annual fire and life safety inspections throughout the community. Fees evolved over time to reflect operational needs and cost recovery efforts. Beginning in Fiscal Year 2013-2014, these fees have been adjusted annually in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The current Operational Business Inspection Fee is $29.9...
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