About CodeWatchLV
CodeWatchLV is a coalition of fire and life safety stakeholders in Southern Nevada advocating for smart, fair, and effective fire code enforcement.
Who We Are
We represent the businesses that built and maintain Las Vegas's reputation for safety, innovation, and operational excellence. Our coalition includes:
- Fire protection contractors
- General contractors and developers
- Property owners and managers
- Event venues and hospitality operators
- Engineering firms
- Small business owners
- Industry professionals with decades of experience
We are not outsiders. We are the operators, designers, inspectors, and business owners who live this process every day. We don't oppose fire safety regulations - we're advocating for the next evolution of smart, data-driven, partnership-based regulation.
The Three Pillars of Reform
Pillar 1: End the Fee Factory
The current model treats businesses like ATMs for bloated bureaucratic budgets. We demand an end to redundant and punitive fees.
- Eliminate Redundant Inspection Permits: Stop charging local permit fees for fire alarm, sprinkler, and suppression system inspections when state law already mandates professional third-party testing and reporting.
- Abolish Punitive Resubmittal Fees: Replace the current model where minor errors trigger hundreds of dollars in fees. Institute a "Fix-It Ticket" policy for clerical corrections.
- Justify All Fees: Require transparent, public justification for any fee exceeding actual administrative costs.
Pillar 2: Mandate Consistency & Clarity
The single greatest hidden cost to business is regulatory uncertainty. We demand a system that is predictable and clear.
- Appoint a Fire Code Ombudsman: Create a neutral position to resolve technical disputes without requiring litigation.
- Enforce Reviewer Continuity: Assign primary and secondary reviewers accountable for projects from start to finish.
- Create Binding Preliminary Reviews: Allow developers to get binding written guidance before investing in detailed construction documents.
Pillar 3: Leverage Existing Resources
Public safety is a fundamental government service, not a for-profit enterprise. We demand efficient use of existing resources.
- Re-engage Fire Suppression Crews: Utilize on-duty fire crews for routine business inspections and pre-incident surveys.
- Consolidate Plan Review: Explore valley-wide coordination for consistency and efficiency.
- Invest in User-Friendly Technology: Digital systems should simplify, not complicate.