Streamlined Sprinkler Inspections Approved

County supervisors have approved a plan to streamline the process for inspecting fire sprinkler systems in unincorporated areas.

Under the old process, both the Orange County Fire Authority and the county’s Environmental Management Agency inspected sprinkler systems in new commercial buildings and large homes.

The dual inspections required constant coordination between the two departments and “confused builders who didn’t know who to call,” said Ronald J. Novello, the director of building and development services.

Under the new system, the fire authority will be responsible for the inspection and receive most of the fire permit revenue.

“The net effect is that government costs are reduced by 50%,” said Novello, who estimated that the county will save $28,000 a year because of the changes.