range hood system inspection testing commercial kitchen 2025

FDNY Fire Suppression System Inspection Changes in 2025 For Restaurant Commercial Kitchens

In 2025, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) rolled out major updates to fire suppression system inspection protocols, with the goal of improving safety and streamlining compliance for commercial properties—especially those in the food service and hospitality industries.

Check out these photos from a recent job in Jackson Heights Queens.

Tighter Inspection and Maintenance Standards

The FDNY now requires more frequent and detailed inspections of fire suppression systems in commercial kitchens and other high-risk environments. All new installations and system modifications must comply with the 2022 NYC Fire Code (§609 and §904.3.8) and Building Code §904.12, which reference UL 300 standards for modern cooking equipment. Regular semi-annual inspections by licensed professionals are now more strictly enforced.

Faster Approvals with Professional Certification

To reduce project delays, the FDNY has expanded its Professional Certification program. This allows licensed design professionals to certify certain fire safety systems—like alarms and suppression devices—without prior FDNY plan review. This shift is intended to accelerate compliance timelines, especially for routine upgrades and system replacements.

New Tech and Inspection Tools

The FDNY now requires the use of Auxiliary Radio Communication Systems (ARCS) in most high-rise buildings, enhancing first responder communication during emergencies. In parallel, the FDNY launched the Fire Inspection Revenue and Enforcement System (FIRES), a digital platform that streamlines inspections, automates citations, and gives building owners access to real-time compliance tools.

Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance

Businesses that fail to meet updated fire code requirements face steeper penalties, potential business disruptions, and even forced closures until violations are corrected. Staying up to date is critical to avoid costly fines and protect lives.

Key Takeaways:

•Stricter fire suppression inspection rules now apply to commercial kitchens and buildings citywide.

•Professional certification options allow for faster system approvals without delays.

•The new FIRES system makes compliance more transparent—and non-compliance more costly.

From Jackson Heights and Forest Hills to Astoria and Long Island City, we’ve been helping New York businesses stay safe and compliant since 1969. Our licensed technicians specialize in fire suppression system inspections, upgrades, and full FDNY compliance support. Whether you run a restaurant, hotel, or commercial property, we’ll help you stay ahead of the latest 2025 fire code changes.

To see what the professionals at Master Fire Prevention do every day, visit our RECENT JOBS BLOG as well as our YOUTUBE CHANNEL for lots of helpful and informative videos. You can also follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/masterfireprevention/.

Remember when it comes to Fire Protection Services NYC Restaurants and Property Managers trust Master Fire for all their Suppression, Sprinkler and Exhaust Ventilation Needs.

MASTER FIRE PREVENTION

FDNY Fire Suppression System Inspection Changes in 2025 For Restaurant Commercial Kitchens