Factories, warehouses, shops and many other businesses in Bangladesh need a fire licence from Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD). Taller buildings also need fire safety clearance before the building plan is approved. The process is simple when you are ready, and slow when you are not.
Short answer: prepare your papers, make sure the fire safety equipment is installed and working, train your staff, and keep records. Then apply to Fire Service. The inspector will visit and check the building against the papers.
Rules and fees change from time to time. Always check the latest requirements with Fire Service or your local fire station before you apply.
Who needs a fire licence?
Most businesses that store or use goods, run machines, or have many people inside: factories, warehouses, shops, shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, hospitals and fuel stores. The fire licence also has to be renewed, usually every year.
For new tall buildings, RAJUK and other development authorities ask for fire safety clearance from Fire Service before they approve the plan. That clearance looks at the design: stairs, exits, water supply and fire systems.
Papers you usually need
- Trade licence and company papers.
- Building plan or floor layout, showing exits and stairs.
- A fire safety plan showing where the equipment is.
- A list of fire safety equipment: extinguishers, fire alarm, hydrant, sprinklers.
- Proof of trained staff and fire drill records, for factories.
- For renewal: the old licence and service records.
What the inspector checks
- Exits and stairs: enough exits, not locked, not blocked, with exit signs and emergency lights.
- Extinguishers: the right type and number, full, in date, easy to reach. See how many you need.
- Fire alarm: call points, detectors and sounders that work. See our fire alarm guide.
- Water system: hydrant, hose reels and sprinklers where needed, with a working pump. See our fire pump guide.
- Electrical safety: covered panels, no loose wiring, proper earthing.
- Storage: goods kept away from exits, lights and panels.
- People: trained fire team and regular drills.
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Common reasons a file gets delayed
- Extinguishers that are empty or past their service date.
- Exit doors that are locked, or open the wrong way.
- Fire alarm installed but not working, or with no battery backup.
- No fire drill records.
- The layout in the papers does not match the building.
Where we can help
Once you have the list of what to fix, send it to us and we will quote for the missing equipment. For factories preparing for buyer audits, see our garment factory checklist.
Common questions
How long does a fire licence take in Bangladesh?
If the papers are complete and the building passes inspection, it can be quick. Most delays come from missing papers or failed inspections.
Do I need a fire licence for a small shop?
Many small businesses need one too. Ask your local fire station, as it depends on the type of business.
How often do I renew the fire licence?
Usually every year. Keep your service and drill records ready for renewal.
Preparing for a fire inspection? Call our hotline +8801670 468794 or send us a message on WhatsApp.
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