Fire NOC is non-negotiable for any restaurant above the self-declaration threshold — which most casual dining and above exceed. Without it, your Trade Licence won't issue and Zomato/Swiggy won't list you. Here is the 2026 cost, timeline, and requirements by state, plus the filing sequence that avoids a 60-day delay.
When you need a full Fire NOC
Self-declaration is allowed for very small premises (typically <100 sqm, no LPG bank, no basement seating) in some states. Most restaurants need the full NOC because they exceed one or more thresholds: floor area >100 sqm, LPG manifold, seating in basement or mezzanine, or kitchen exhaust ducting above 6m.
Cost by state (2026)
| State / city | NOC fee (₹) | Equipment install (₹) | Total (₹) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharashtra (Mumbai) | 8,000-30,000 | 40,000-1,50,000 | 50,000-1,80,000 | 30-60 days |
| Karnataka (Bengaluru) | 5,000-20,000 | 35,000-1,20,000 | 40,000-1,40,000 | 21-45 days |
| Delhi NCR | 10,000-25,000 | 50,000-2,00,000 | 60,000-2,25,000 | 30-60 days |
| Gujarat (Ahmedabad) | 5,000-15,000 | 30,000-1,00,000 | 35,000-1,15,000 | 21-40 days |
| Tamil Nadu (Chennai) | 5,000-20,000 | 35,000-1,20,000 | 40,000-1,40,000 | 25-50 days |
| Rajasthan (Jaipur) | 3,000-12,000 | 25,000-80,000 | 28,000-92,000 | 15-35 days |
| Kerala (Kochi) | 5,000-18,000 | 35,000-1,10,000 | 40,000-1,28,000 | 25-45 days |
Equipment install — extinguishers, hose reels, smoke detectors, emergency exit signage, fire alarm panel — is the largest line and varies with premises size and floor count.
Documents you need before filing
- Approved building plan — from architect; must show kitchen, seating, exits, and LPG location.
- Lease agreement — or ownership proof.
- Kitchen layout plan — showing range, tandoor, exhaust hood, and fire suppression if required.
- Electrical load certificate — from licensed electrician.
- LPG installation certificate — from gas company, if applicable.
Filing sequence
- Week 1 of fit-out — engage fire safety contractor; share architect plan for equipment quote.
- Week 2-3 — install extinguishers, signage, detectors during fit-out (not after).
- Week 3-4 — file application on state fire portal with layout plan and equipment invoice.
- Inspection — fire officer visits premises. Fix any gaps within 7 days.
- NOC issued — typically 7-14 days post-inspection. Submit to municipal corp for Trade Licence.
Common rejection reasons
- Blocked emergency exit — storage or equipment placed in exit path. Most common rejection.
- Missing kitchen suppression — commercial kitchens above certain sqft need hood suppression system.
- LPG bank inside kitchen — must be in ventilated external enclosure in most states.
- Basement seating without second exit — any basement dining needs two independent exits.
Do not wait until fit-out is complete to file. File when 70% of fire equipment is installed. Inspections get scheduled faster, and you avoid the 3-4 week delay of filing after everything else is done.
Open the state licence checklist →