The State Fire Marshal’s Office would like to remind school districts that the construction, renovation or remodeling of school buildings is subject to ARSD Chapter 61:15:02 – School Construction Requirements.

All plans and specifications must be submitted to the State Fire Marshal’s office for review and approval prior to the start of construction:

ARSD 61:15:02:01. Responsibility of governing boards. The governing board of a school covered by SDCL chapter 13-25 shall inform the Department of Public Safety of its intention to alter or remodel existing structures or to build new facilities to be used for school purposes.

ARSD 61:15:02:02. Approval of proposed construction required. The governing body shall advertise no plans and specifications for proposed construction or alteration of school buildings until the plans and specifications have been reviewed by a representative of the Department of Public Safety and approved in writing. Drawings shall be drawn to scale and shall clearly show plot plan sections, elevations, structural details, floor plan, electrical, mechanical, and any other details the department requires.

Evaluation is particularly important when dealing with school security-related matters and the use of special locking devices on classroom doors. Any changes made to building egress systems, classroom doors, door hardware or special locking devices must be approved prior to installation in accordance with the above.

Questions? Please contact the State Fire Marshal’s office at 605-773-3562.