105.1 Fire Official

Each enforcing agency shall have an executive official in charge, hereinafter referred to as the "fire official."

Note: Fire officials are subject to sanctions in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

The fire official shall be appointed in a manner selected by the local government having jurisdiction. After permanent appointment, the fire official shall not be removed from office except for cause after having been afforded a full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing authority.

The appointing authority of the local governing body shall notify the DHCD and the State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) within 30 days of the appointment or release of the permanent or acting fire official.

The fire official shall have at least five years of fire-related experience as a firefighter, fire officer, licensed professional engineer or architect, fire or building inspector, contractor or superintendent of fire protection-related or building construction or at least five years of fire-related experience after obtaining a degree in architecture or engineering, with at least three years in responsible charge of work. Any combination of education and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be deemed to satisfy this requirement. The fire official shall have general knowledge of sound engineering practice with respect to the design and construction of structures, the basic principles of fire prevention and protection, the accepted requirements for means of egress and the installation of elevators and other service equipment necessary for the health, safety and general welfare of the occupants and the public. The local governing body may establish additional qualification requirements.