Phoenix Fire Department policy at a glance
| Applies to | New and existing buildings over three stories, over 50,000 sq ft, or with a basement or underground level — or as required by the fire code official |
|---|---|
| Code basis | Phoenix Fire Code Section 510 and NFPA 1221 (per the policy) |
| Testing timing | After the building envelope is complete; VHF testing not required |
| Compliance | Certificate of Radio Coverage Compliance, signed and sealed by an Arizona-licensed PE, before C of O — otherwise an ERRCS is required |
| Credentials | FCC GROL plus in-building training certification for designers, lead installers, and testers |
| Annual | Annual testing by qualified personnel |
| Recommendation | ERRCS backbone recommended for all new buildings in scope |
Source: Phoenix Fire Department Explanatory Policy (effective December 2019, reviewed July 2022).1 Code editions may have been updated since; confirm with the Fire Prevention Division.
How we help in Phoenix
Feasibility assessments to tell you early whether a building will pass, and ERRCS designs built to Phoenix Fire Code Section 510 — delivered remotely.
Frequently asked questions
Does Phoenix require an engineer’s certificate?
Yes. Compliant buildings receive a Certificate of Radio Coverage Compliance signed and sealed by an Arizona-licensed Professional Engineer before the C of O.
Should I install a backbone in a new building?
Phoenix recommends an ERRCS backbone for all new buildings within the policy’s scope.
References
- Phoenix Fire Department — Explanatory Policy: Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (eff. Dec. 2019, reviewed July 2022). pilot.phoenix.gov
General information, not a substitute for your AHJ’s current requirements or a project-specific design. Local standards change; confirm with the fire code official.