Understanding High Pile Storage
High pile storage is generally defined as the storage of materials in closely packed piles or on pallets, racks, or shelves that exceeds a certain height (often 12 feet, but requirements vary significantly by municipality and commodity type). Due to the increased risk associated with vertical fire spread and smoke generation, these setups require a separate, highly specialized permit. Our service analyzes your commodity class, rack configuration, and sprinkler system capacity to create the compliant plans necessary for approval.
High Pile Permit Requirements
Securing a high pile permit demands precise documentation proving that the storage method does not exceed the fire protection capabilities of the building. Our comprehensive permit package includes:
Commodity Classification Report
Official identification of the materials being stored (e.g., Class I, II, III, IV, or plastics) to determine fire risk.
High Pile Layout Drawings
Detailed AutoCAD plans showing rack height, flue spaces, aisle widths, and distance to sprinklers.
Fire Suppression System Review
Verification of existing sprinkler type, density, and flow rate against the storage height and commodity class.
Aisle and Egress Compliance
Ensuring all necessary safety aisles and exit routes remain clear and meet code requirements.
Calculations and Engineer Stamps
Submission of necessary structural and fire engineering calculations signed off by a licensed professional.
Zoning and Building Code Review
Confirmation that the proposed high pile storage meets all local zoning restrictions and general building codes.
Fire Code and Safety Compliance
Fire code compliance is the single most critical component of high pile permitting. Failure to meet these standards results in immediate rejection and potential operational shutdowns. Racforce provides expert consultation focused entirely on mitigating fire risk:
We meticulously ensure the correct flue spaces are maintained both horizontally and vertically. We analyze the required fire suppression system (e.g., standard sprinklers vs. in-rack sprinklers) based on the most hazardous commodity stored. By addressing these complex variables proactively, we deliver plans that satisfy the Fire Marshal the first time, protecting your inventory and personnel.
Why Choose Racforce for High Pile Storage Permits
High pile permitting is highly technical and unforgiving. Racforce offers the specialized expertise needed to convert complex fire and seismic codes into successful permit approvals.
Guaranteeing Fire Marshal Approval
We specialize in the exacting details of fire safety and high-pile codes, giving you the highest probability of first-pass approval from the local Fire Marshal.
Expertise in Complex Commodity Classes
We expertly navigate the regulations for combustible materials, plastics, and high-hazard goods, ensuring your storage design is appropriate for your specific inventory.
Protecting Your Investment
Obtaining the correct high pile permit legally validates your storage density, protecting your large investment in racking and space optimization from forced modification or teardown.
Reduced Project Delays
Our knowledge of local submission requirements prevents common errors and omissions that lead to lengthy review cycles, keeping your installation timeline on track.
Seamless Design Integration
Our permitting team works hand-in-hand with our AutoCAD designers, ensuring the permit application documents perfectly match the engineered layout and load requirements.
Full Compliance Audit
We conduct a thorough audit of your current or proposed setup against all applicable codes before submission, guaranteeing zero surprises during the final inspection.
Related Other Warehouse Solutions
High pile storage is only one part of an efficient and compliant warehouse. These services often accompany high pile projects to ensure a complete, legal, and operational solution.
Warehouse Permitting
General building and equipment permit management that often overlaps with the high pile application process.
Expert AutoCAD Design & Layout
Provides the detailed, scaled, and engineered plans required for all high pile storage submissions.
Fire Consultation
Expert analysis of existing or planned fire suppression systems specific to the high pile environment.
Installation Services
Certified crews who install racking exactly to the high pile design and fire code specifications.