Odisha Government Simplifies Fire Safety Certification for Pre-2017 Buildings

In a major policy shift, the Odisha government has eased fire safety certification rules for buildings constructed before 2017. This decision aims to help thousands of property owners obtain fire safety certificates without requiring prior building plan approvals. The change is expected to benefit old hospitals, educational institutions, hotels, and cinema halls that were previously unable to secure fire safety compliance due to missing or unapproved building plans.

Key Policy Changes

Previously, buildings constructed before the enactment of the Odisha Fire Prevention and Fire Safety Rules, 2017, were required to comply with both fire safety regulations and building plan approvals under the Orissa Development Authorities Act, 1982. This requirement created hurdles for many older structures, which were unable to meet compliance standards due to the lack of formal building plans.

Under the new regulations, the Odisha Fire Prevention and Fire Safety (Amendment) Rules, 2025, allow existing buildings occupied before 2017 to apply for a fire safety certificate without submitting building plan approvals. The decision was made to ensure that more structures can become fire-safe without being held back by bureaucratic constraints.

Government’s Justification

According to Sudhanshu Sarangi, Director General of Fire and Emergency Services, the reform intends to simplify the process while maintaining safety standards. He explained that fire officers would inspect such buildings and provide recommendations for necessary fire safety measures before issuing certificates. This will ensure that safety compliance is met without the need for outdated paperwork.

Sarangi further added, “Delinking building plan approval from fire safety certification will help clinics, schools, hotels, and other establishments comply with regulations. Now, they can apply without an approved building plan. The only requirement is to follow fire safety measures as prescribed by fire officers.”

Impact on Property Owners

Thousands of properties across Odisha, including private and public buildings, will benefit from this relaxation. In the past, the absence of proper documentation prevented several structures from obtaining fire safety certification, leaving them non-compliant with fire safety norms. This reform offers a lifeline to property owners who were previously unable to meet the strict requirements.

For business owners, particularly in the hospitality and healthcare sectors, this change is expected to provide significant relief. Hotels and hospitals, which require strict adherence to fire safety norms, will now be able to apply for certification and implement required safety measures without facing legal roadblocks over plan approvals.

Ensuring Fire Safety Compliance

Despite easing regulations, the Odisha government has emphasized that fire safety standards will not be compromised. Fire officers will conduct thorough inspections of buildings and guide owners on installing necessary fire prevention measures, such as fire extinguishers, alarm systems, and emergency exits. The certification will be granted only after ensuring that reasonable safety precautions are in place.

Future Implications

This move aligns with the government’s broader initiative to enhance fire safety compliance while streamlining bureaucratic processes. The decision is expected to set a precedent for other states to adopt similar measures, encouraging a balance between regulatory compliance and practical implementation.

Overall, the new rules reflect Odisha’s commitment to making fire safety regulations more accessible while ensuring that old buildings can be made safer for occupants. This initiative is expected to have a long-term positive impact on urban safety and real estate compliance across the state.