Orlich Leads Glen Rock in Modernizing Fire Inspection Fees and Regulations

During the September 10, 2025 Council Work Session, Councilmember Orlich led the discussion on proposed updates to the borough's fire prevention fees and regulations. The changes, requested primarily by the Fire Prevention Office, are designed to bring Glen Rock’s policies in line with neighboring towns and state mandates while ensuring fees are competitive and current.

A major focus of the conversation centered on business inspection fees, which have not been updated since 2003. By contrast, most municipalities revise these fees every three to five years. The Fire Prevention Office presented a proposed schedule modeled on Ridgewood’s, with rates that are considered comparable or slightly lower than nearby communities. For example, Glen Rock would charge $80 for the smallest square footage, compared to $75 in Wyckoff, $85 in Montville, and $100 in Woodcliff Lake and Paramus. Orlich underscored that this update is about fairness and consistency, making Glen Rock’s system match the standards set by surrounding towns.

Another proposal involves introducing inspection fees for houses of worship, which are currently inspected at no charge. Fire prevention officers noted that this exemption is rare in other towns. Under the new plan, houses of worship would pay the same square footage-based fees as businesses, ensuring that inspection costs are covered. The borough also confirmed that vacant business spots will continue to be charged, a practice consistent with other municipalities, where no exemptions are offered.

To address the strain caused by last-minute requests on the part-time Fire Prevention Office, the council reviewed a plan for expedited fees. Inspections requested within five days would carry an additional charge, and applications submitted with less than 48 hours’ notice would be denied. For permits related to food trucks and tents, a $40 expedite fee is proposed for requests made less than a week in advance, with denials for requests under 48 hours. The base permit fee, currently $54, would rise slightly to $60, reflecting a long-overdue update since the state minimum was set in 2003.

The council also considered changes related to home sales and safety equipment. Based on recommendations from the fire chief and fire inspection officer, the borough plans to remove the requirement for kitchen fire extinguishers during home sales, in line with a recent state law change. Fire officials noted that current guidance encourages residents to evacuate and call 911 rather than attempt to fight a kitchen fire.

In addition, beginning in June 2026, state law will require smoke and carbon monoxide inspections during home sales to be handled by the fire inspector rather than the building department. To prepare for this shift, the fire inspector has requested a $100 inspection fee, which is the same amount the Building Department was charging, with an additional $50 re-inspection fee if the first inspection fails.

While some residents may be concerned about the introduction or increase of fees, it should be noted that the purpose of these charges is to cover the cost of inspections and services so they are not subsidized by everyday taxpayers. The fees pay for the professional staff who perform inspections, including fire prevention officers and inspectors, and ensure that businesses, property owners, and organizations using these services bear the cost directly.

These updates, shaped by requests from the Fire Prevention Office and supported by Orlich’s leadership during the council discussion, are designed to make Glen Rock’s fees comparable to those in nearby towns while ensuring safety, efficiency, and fairness in how inspection services are funded. Council members also acknowledged the extensive work and research Orlich contributed in preparing the proposals and leading the review. The council is expected to move toward codifying these recommendations in the months ahead.