Lucknow | In a major relief for entrepreneurs and investors, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has approved a key amendment in the Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Rules, 2024, extending the validity of Fire Safety Certificates (NOC) for non-residential buildings from three years to five years.
This reform, implemented under the Chief Minister’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ initiative, excludes hospitals and high-hazard industrial buildings, which will continue to have a one-year validity period. The new regulation aims to simplify compliance, promote transparency, and support industrial growth while ensuring robust fire safety standards across the state.
According to the existing provisions based on the National Building Code (NBC), fire safety certificates are granted depending on the type of building occupancy. The NBC classifies buildings under several categories — Residential, Educational, Institutional, Assembly, Business, Mercantile, Industrial, Storage, and Hazardous Occupancy types.
Previously, residential buildings (excluding hotels) were issued fire NOCs valid for five years, while non-residential buildings had a validity of three years. Hotels, hospitals, and high-risk industrial establishments were required to renew their certificates annually. The new rules now extend the validity for all other categories to five years, effectively reducing bureaucratic delays and compliance costs for businesses.
In addition, the state government has streamlined the online NOC application process to make it more efficient, transparent, and time-bound. Earlier, applicants often faced challenges due to incomplete digital forms and the absence of key requirements such as fire lift safety certificates, electrical safety approvals, and third-party verifications. The revised format now ensures that all necessary documents are integrated into the online system, making the approval process smoother and faster.
Officials in the Department of Fire and Emergency Services stated that these reforms will not only encourage investment but also enhance urban safety and reduce the risk of fire-related disasters. “The initiative aligns with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of making Uttar Pradesh a business-friendly state while strengthening public safety mechanisms,” an official said.
The extended validity and simplified process are expected to benefit thousands of commercial and institutional establishments across the state — from offices and educational institutions to shopping complexes and manufacturing units. By reducing procedural bottlenecks and ensuring digital transparency, the government hopes to boost investor confidence, spur job creation, and promote sustainable urban development.
Experts believe that these measures mark a significant step in balancing economic ease with public safety. The modernization of fire certification procedures reflects Uttar Pradesh’s broader commitment to creating a conducive environment for industrial expansion, smart city growth, and citizen welfare.
With this reform, Uttar Pradesh continues to lead by example in adopting progressive governance measures that combine technology, efficiency, and accountability.
