Subject: Open Flames and Torches  

Revised: April 2025 

Purpose: Open flames and torches operational permit is required to remove paint with a torch; or to use a torch or open-flame device in a hazardous fire area. Open flames and torches operational permits shall be issued to companies who perform these operations in unincorporated Harris County and not for each job or operation location. Open flames and torches operational permit shall be renewed on an annual basis. 

Fees: $300.00 Annually  

Requirements: An Open Flames and Torches permit will be issued once an application has been completed appropriately, all applicable documents have been uploaded, reviewed, and approved. 

Applications will be completed electronically, and all required documentation shall be uploaded electronically. There shall be no paper submissions. Permit application shall be completed and submitted through the approved Harris County software program. Once the application is received along with all required documentation, the Fire Code Official will conduct a review. When the permit process is complete, and authorization is given, the applicant will be notified that the permit is issued, and the duration of the permit will be indicated.  

All Open Flames and Torches permit applications will begin with generalized information requirements. This information will pertain to the property information/property owner’s information/application information/project name.  

When applying for an Open Flames and Torches operational permit the applicant shall provide the following information:  

• Written statement certifying compliance with applicable chapters of the adopted fire code: 

• • Chapter 3 – Section 308.1 through 308.4.1- Open Flames, 

• • Chapter 6 – Section 603.1, 603.2, 603.5, and 603.6- Fuel- Fired Appliances, 

• • Chapter 35 – Welding; 

• Written processes and procedures for the proper and safe operations when using open flames and torches including: 

• • Ensuring proper extinguishers on site, compliant with chapter 906, 

• • Requiring employee remains on premise 1 hour after operation; 

• Copy of emergency and safety plans. 

If one or more of the requested documents does not apply to your location, please submit in writing a reason for not submitting. 

Denial: If it is determined that an application fails to meet the requirements as set forth in this standard or the applicant refuses to provide all required documentation, the fire code official shall not issue a permit, but shall return the application to the applicant with explanation for refusal.  

Revocation: The fire code official is authorized to revoke a permit where it is found that there has been false statements or misrepresentation as to the material facts in the application or supporting documentation on which the approval and issuance was based, the permit was issued to a different person or firm than named on the permit, the permittee failed, refused or neglected to comply with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the provisions of this code within the time provided therein, or the permit was issued in error or in violation of an ordinance, regulation or this code.