Full Text
Fire & Life Safety Inspections in Belgrade City Limits Frequently Asked Questions Why are fire inspections changing? The State of Montana updated the Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) in 2024 after a public process. These updates removed language that delegated fire inspections to fire protection districts and reassigned that responsibility to municipal building officials. To comply with state law and streamline local procedures, the Belgrade City Council adopted a new fire code ordinance on Nov. 3. When will the City begin conducting fire inspections? The City has already been inspecting new construction since April 2025. Beginning December 3, the City of Belgrade began performing fire and life safety inspections for existing structures within city limits. Does this affect properties outside of Belgrade? No. Only structures within Belgrade city limits are affected. For properties outside Belgrade—but still within Central Valley Fire District—fire inspections continue to be handled by CVFD. Who will conduct the inspections? Inspections will be performed by the City’s Chief Building Official/Fire Marshal, and a team of certified staff members trained in fire and life safety inspections. How do I schedule an inspection? Contact the Belgrade Building Department: ---PAGE BREAK--- • [PHONE REDACTED] • [EMAIL REDACTED]. • • Community Development Office at City Hall – 91 E. Central Ave. Who used to do fire inspections inside city limits? Central Valley Fire District previously conducted these inspections inside city limits. Following the state rule changes, CVFD has already been directing inspection requests to the City. Both agencies continue to collaborate to support public safety. Why is this change beneficial to building owners? This update provides a single point of contact for development and fire safety inside the city limits. Building owners now complete all permitting, building inspections, and fire inspections through the City—helping them navigate codes more easily and move projects forward faster. Where can I find more information? Visit or contact the Building Department for assistance.