Fire NOC rules relaxed for old schools and colleges in Telangana

The Telangana Department of Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence has simplified the process of granting Fire No Objection Certificates (NOC) for currently operational schools and junior and intermediate colleges. This decision aims to remove difficulties arising from structural limitations in old educational buildings, while essential fire safety requirements remain intact. These revised guidelines, issued by Director General of Fire Services Vikram Singh Man, will apply to applications received on or after November 10.

According to a report by The Hindu, under the new rules, educational institutions may retain the existing open space available on their premises and will not be required to create additional open space. If existing setbacks are insufficient, water curtains must be installed on sides without roads as a compensatory measure to prevent fire from spreading from neighbouring properties. Additionally, a four-way fire brigade inlet facility must be provided.

Considering the height and design of old educational buildings, requirements regarding second staircase structures have also been clarified in these guidelines. The department has specified fire safety measures for various categories of buildings, including fire extinguishers, modular sprinklers in chemical laboratories, computer laboratories or server rooms, first-aid hose reels, manually operated electronic fire alarm systems, downcomers, overhead firefighting water storage tanks, and pumps.

Institutions must ensure that staircases, corridors, exits, and evacuation routes remain unobstructed. Exit doors must open in the direction of egress and must be equipped with emergency lighting as well as illuminated or auto-glow exit signage. Water storage for firefighting must be maintained, and evacuation plans, emergency contact numbers, and fire safety instructions must be displayed at prominent locations. Schools and colleges are required to form a School Safety Advisory Committee and a School Fire Task Force, conduct staff training and awareness programmes for students, and maintain a fire safety manual and emergency response plan. Regular maintenance of electrical safety and equipment is also mandatory.

The occupancy NOC granted under the revised guidelines will be valid for three years. Institutions must apply for renewal by following the prescribed process and paying the fee two months before the expiry of the period. The new provisions under this amendment do not affect the existing self-certification system available under government orders, and institutions may continue to use it.

These changes have been made following representations by schools and college management associations and discussions held with stakeholders on September 8, 2026. This framework attempts to resolve the difficulties in meeting open space and additional staircase requirements in old buildings without compromising fire and life safety.

The Telangana Fire Services Department is operational for fire safety and disaster management. It is responsible for responding during fire emergencies and ensuring compliance with rules for the safety of citizens.