Fire Safety FSC & FSSD Submissions In Singapore

Professional FSSD Submission Services


Fire Armour provides expert, end-to-end management of the FSSD submission process, ensuring your building plans are fully compliant and approved without unnecessary delays.

Our service covers every stage, from initial consultation and plan preparation to final submission and liaison with authorities. We handle the complexities so you can focus on your project.

For a seamless and compliant submission process, contact our specialists today.

Contact Us


What is FSSD Submission?

FSSD stands for the Fire Safety and Shelter Department, a critical division of the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). The purpose of an FSSD submission is to have building plans formally reviewed and approved by this department before any construction or renovation work commences.

This process ensures that all architectural, mechanical, and electrical (M&E) plans comply with the latest requirements of the Singapore Fire Code. It is a mandatory step in the nation’s building approval process, designed to integrate fire safety into the building’s core design.

Why is FSSD Submission Required?

FSSD submission is a legal requirement under the Fire Safety Act. The primary reason for this mandate is public safety. By enforcing compliance with the Fire Code, the FSSD ensures that all buildings are constructed with adequate fire protection measures, such as safe escape routes, fire detection systems, and fire suppression capabilities. This rigorous process safeguards lives, protects property, and ensures that first responders can operate effectively during an emergency.

FSSD Submission Requirements & Checklist

A successful FSSD submission requires a comprehensive set of documents. While the exact requirements vary by project scope, a typical checklist includes:

  • Application Forms: Correctly completed and signed official application documents.
  • Building Plans / Fire Plans: Detailed architectural, structural, and M&E plans showing all fire safety provisions.
  • Fire Safety Calculations: Supporting technical documents, such as calculations for exit capacity or ventilation systems.
  • Supporting Documents: A letter of authorisation, project brief, and any other relevant certificates.
  • Qualified Person (QP) Endorsement: All plans and forms must be endorsed by a registered architect or professional engineer.

Who Can Submit FSSD Applications?

FSSD submissions can only be made by Qualified Persons (QPs). In Singapore, QPs are registered architects or professional engineers (PEs) who are legally authorised to prepare and endorse building plans.

Their involvement is mandatory because they possess the technical expertise to ensure plans comply with the Fire Code and are professionally accountable for the design’s integrity. 

Fire Armour works directly with QPs to facilitate a smooth submission.

FSSD Submission Process / Step-by-Step Instructions

Our team manages the entire submission workflow, which generally follows these steps:

Fire plan submissions

This process is for significant construction or renovation projects that require a comprehensive fire safety plan approval before a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) can be issued. It involves a thorough review of all fire safety aspects of the building design.

The process for fire plan submissions includes:

  • Site visit and study of the overall layout for the proposed addition and alteration works that are to be carried out.
  • Detailed study for the necessary Fire Safety requirements to comply with the FSSD regulation.
  • Preparation of the required Building Plan / Fire Plan plans for Submission to FSSD for approval.
  • Appointment of Registered Inspector (Architect/M&E) for necessary FSSD inspection and issuance of the Fire Certificate.
  • Submission/Application, payable to FSSD.
  • Obtaining Notice of Approval
  • Issuance of Certification of Supervision upon completion of Supervision upon completion of works for FSC application.
  • Qualified Person & Professional Engineer Endorsement.

Minor addition and alteration MAA works submissions

For smaller-scale works that do not significantly impact a building’s fire safety systems, the Minor Addition and Alteration (MAA) submission provides a more streamlined approval process. This is suitable for simple partitions or minor changes with limited fire safety implications.

These are the steps for MAA submissions:

  • Site visit and study of the overall layout for the proposed minor addition and alteration works that are to be carried out.
  • Detailed study for the necessary Fire Safety requirements to comply with the FSSD regulation.
  • Preparation of the required Building Plan / Fire Plan plans for Submission to FSSD for approval.
  • Issuance of Acceptance Certificate.
  • Plan Fee (Building Plan) payable to FSSD.
  • Professional Engineer Endorsement

Types of Works Requiring FSSD Submission

FSSD approval is required for a wide range of building works, including:

  • New building construction.
  • Major Additions & Alterations (A&A) to existing buildings.
  • Works that involve changes to the fire protection systems, including altering sprinkler layouts and relocating fire alarm panels.
  • Change of a building’s designated use, such as converting an office into a restaurant.
  • Erection of temporary buildings or structures.

Difference Between Building Plan and Fire Protection Plan Submission

While related, these are two distinct types of submissions:

  • Building Plan (BP) Submission: This comprehensive submission encompasses the overall architectural plans of the building, including layouts, structures, and elevations.
  • Fire Protection (FP) Plan Submission: This is a specialised submission focusing exclusively on the fire safety systems. It details the layout of fire alarms, sprinklers, exit signs, hose reels, and other fire protection solutions.

Often, the FP plan is a detailed component submitted as part of, or in conjunction with, the general BP submission.

Obtaining Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)

The Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) is a mandatory document issued by the SCDF upon completion of a building’s construction or renovation. It certifies that the premises have been constructed in accordance with the approved fire plans and that all fire safety systems are installed and functioning correctly.

To obtain an FSC, the completed works must be inspected by a Registered Inspector (RI). The RI verifies compliance on-site and submits an inspection certificate to the SCDF, which then issues the FSC. A building cannot be legally occupied without a valid FSC.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with FSSD requirements carries significant penalties that can derail a project. The risks include:

  • Inability to Obtain FSC: Without an approved FSSD submission, you cannot obtain an FSC, rendering the building unfit for occupation.
  • Work Stoppage Orders: The SCDF can halt all construction activities until compliance is achieved.
  • Hefty Fines and Penalties: Building owners can be penalised with a fine not exceeding S$10,000 for failing to comply with fire safety regulations.
  • Legal Action: In severe cases, building owners or responsible parties may face prosecution.

Benefits of FSSD Approval

Securing FSSD approval is more than just a regulatory hurdle; it provides tangible benefits:

  • Guaranteed Legal Compliance: Ensures your project adheres to the Fire Safety Act, avoiding fines and legal issues.
  • Enhanced Occupant Safety: Confirms that your building has the necessary features to protect lives.
  • Smooth Project Timelines: Prevents costly delays caused by work stoppages or failed inspections.
  • Peace of Mind: Provides confidence that your property is safe, secure, and fully compliant with national standards.

Let our experts handle the complexities of FSSD submission to secure these benefits for your project. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure a compliant, hassle-free process.