Miami Kitchen Fire Suppression & Hood System Compliance Guide

Miami-Dade County Fire Code & Hood System Requirements

Miami-Dade County requires all commercial kitchen exhaust hoods to be equipped with fire suppression systems that meet NFPA 96 standards. Type I hoods (those with solid filtering or baffle systems over cooking equipment) must have automatic wet chemical suppression systems that discharge agent directly above and below the hood. The suppression system must protect the cooking surface, exhaust duct, and filter areas. All systems require an inspection certificate from a licensed contractor every 6 months, and documentation must be available onsite for fire marshal inspections.

Inspection, Testing & Maintenance Standards

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue conducts compliance inspections during initial operating permits and routine facility audits. Facilities must maintain current service tags on all suppression equipment and provide evidence of semi-annual inspections by UL-listed or FM-approved service providers. Testing includes agent charge verification, nozzle function, system activation (both automatic and manual), and duct cleaning records. Failure to maintain current certification can result in citations, operational shut-down orders, or fines. Records should be retained for at least 3 years and presented immediately upon request.

Compliance Tips & Common Violations to Avoid

Document all maintenance activities in a central log that includes service dates, technician credentials, and any repairs performed. Never allow suppression system inspections to lapse—schedule service 30 days before renewal deadlines. Ensure your hood exhaust ducts are cleaned by a certified professional every 3 months (or per manufacturer guidance if more frequent). Train kitchen staff on manual system activation and ensure escape routes from cooking areas remain clear. Partner with a licensed Miami-area fire suppression contractor familiar with local enforcement—non-compliance can delay your next health permit renewal.

Monitor compliance with Panko Alerts—stay ahead of inspection requirements.

Real-time food safety alerts from 25+ government sources. AI-scored by urgency. Less than one bad meal a month — $4.99/mo.