Overview

To help you make ensure your own safety and the safety of your family and community, the Hoffman Estates Fire Department has brought to you some of the most common, and forgotten, rules and regulations that are established in Hoffman Estates. This page acts as a reminder that there are rules in place and we want to help you make informed decisions.

Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Among the topic most basic pieces of equipment in your home that can help save your life in case of an emergency are your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Because Hoffman Estates prioritizes safety, there are a few things you should know:

• Every dwelling needs to have at least one smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm within 15 feet of every room used for sleeping purposes.
• Smoke detectors should be installed on the ceiling at least 6 inches away from any wall or on a wall between 4 and 6 inches from the ceiling.
• Every single-family residence shall have at least one smoke detector installed on every story, including basements, but not including unoccupied attics.
• Test the smoke detectors and CO alarms once a month and change the batteries twice a year.
• The CO alarm may be combined with smoke-detecting devices, provided that the combined unit emits an alarm in a manner that clearly differentiates the hazard.

For the complete state requirements, check out the Illinois Smoke Detector Act and the Illinois Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector Act.

Hosting an Event?

Did you know that your outside event or tent may require a permit from the local fire department? If you have an outside vent that anticipates a # of people, or you have fencing/barriers that confine more than 50 people, you will need a special permit. If you have a tent over 400 square feet or a canopy over 1,200 square feet your will also need a special permit.

Required Inspections

For more information about the required inspections and code requirements for the Village., the Fire Department has assembled a contractor handout that you can use as a reference when working on a submittal for review.

Please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau to schedule an inspection. Please note that 48 hours advance notice is required for all inspections.

Fireworks

Under Article 5, Section 7-5-4, of the Municipal Code, it is unlawful for any person to fire, discharge, sell, or be in possession of any fireworks within the Village. For more information, please see the referenced ordinance in our Municipal Code.

Keep Hydrants Clear

Every winter, fire hydrants become buried by the snow, creating situations in which it is difficult for the Fire Department to locate and use the hydrants. You can help by ensuring the hydrant near your home or business is kept free from snow on all sides. Please keep a clear path from the street to the hydrant as well.

Swimming Pool Barriers

A proper swimming pool barrier is a key component in pool safety. Drowning is the leading cause of death, in and around the home, for children under 5 years old. Many of these deaths result when young children gain unsupervised access to swimming pools due to inadequate pool fencing. The municipal code requires pools to have an approved fence around them to prevent a child from drowning. Click here to learn about the additional requirements for constructing a pool barrier.

Open Burning

Open burning is prohibited, except where an approved container is used. Yard waste and items that are typically thrown in the garbage are prohibited from being burned.

Fire pits are allowed as long as they are used in compliance with the Village of Hoffman Estate’s open burning and fire pit ordinances. Any fire that is deemed to be a nuisance by the fire or police department will be required to be extinguished.