Fire NOC rules eased for existing schools and colleges in Telangana

The Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence Department has simplified the process of issuing Fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to existing schools and junior and intermediate colleges, addressing infrastructure-related difficulties faced by older educational buildings while retaining essential fire safety requirements.

The revised guidelines, announced by DG of Fire Services Vikram Singh Mann, will apply to NOC applications received on or after November 10.

Under the revised provisions, educational institutions can retain the existing open spaces available within their premises without being required to create additional open spaces. Where existing setbacks are deficient, water curtains must be installed on the affected sides that do not have an adjoining road as a compensatory measure to prevent fire from spreading from neighbouring properties. A four-way fire brigade inlet must also be provided.

The guidelines also clarify requirements for providing a second staircase in existing educational buildings, taking into account their height and configuration.

The department has prescribed fire safety measures according to the respective building categories. These include fire extinguishers, modular sprinklers in applicable chemical laboratories and computer laboratories or server rooms, first-aid hose reels, manually operated electronic fire alarm systems, downcomers, overhead firefighting water storage tanks and pumps, wherever applicable.

Institutions must also ensure that staircases, corridors, exits and escape routes remain unobstructed. Exit doors must open in the direction of escape, while emergency lighting and illuminated or auto-glow exit signage must be provided. Firefighting water reserves must be maintained, and evacuation plans, emergency contact numbers and fire safety instructions displayed at prominent locations.

Schools and colleges must form School Safety Advisory Committees and School Fire Task Forces, conduct staff training and student awareness programmes, maintain fire safety manuals and emergency response plans, and ensure electrical safety and regular maintenance of equipment.

The revised guidelines do not affect the existing self-certification mechanism available under relevant government orders. Institutions can continue to use this mechanism subject to the applicable conditions.

Occupancy NOCs issued under the revised provisions will be valid for three years. Institutions must apply for renewal two months before expiry, following the prescribed procedure and payment of the applicable fee.

The department said the changes followed representations from school and college management associations and discussions with stakeholders held on September 8, 2026. The revised framework seeks to address difficulties faced by older buildings, particularly in meeting prescribed open-space and additional staircase requirements, without compromising fire and life safety.