Fire Fighting Requirements for Shophouse Renovation Works in Singapore: The Complete 2025 Compliance Guide

1. Introduction: The Intersection of Heritage and Safety

 

The conservation shophouse is the architectural soul of Singapore. From the ornate “Late Style” facades of Emerald Hill to the pragmatic “Art Deco” structures of Jalan Besar, these buildings represent a tangible link to the nation’s colonial and mercantile past.1 

However, for the modern investor or business owner, the shophouse presents a paradoxical challenge: it is a highly desirable asset class that was never designed to meet modern safety standards. 

Constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, these buildings are characterized by timber structural elements, narrow frontages, deep floor plans, and shared party walls—features that are inherently vulnerable to fire.1

As Singapore’s built environment evolves, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) have developed a sophisticated, albeit complex, regulatory framework to manage this risk. 

The revitalization of districts such as Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and Little India into vibrant commercial hubs hosting restaurants, boutique hotels, and offices has necessitated a “whole building upgrading” approach.3 

This means that when a shophouse undergoes significant renovation or a change of use, it can no longer rely on “grandfathered” safety provisions; it must be brought up to the standards of the prevailing Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings 2023 (Fire Code 2023).3

This report serves as a definitive technical guide for navigating the fire fighting requirements for shophouse renovation works. It moves beyond a superficial checklist to explore the engineering logic, the regulatory “relaxations” available for heritage structures, and the practical execution of fire safety systems in constrained spaces. It is designed for professional peers—Qualified Persons (QPs), Registered Inspectors (RIs), developers, and facility managers—who require a nuanced understanding of how to balance conservation mandates with the non-negotiable priority of life safety.

 

1.1 The Regulatory Triad: URA, SCDF, and BCA

 

The renovation of a shophouse is rarely a dialogue with a single agency. 

It involves a tripartite negotiation between URA, SCDF, and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).

• URA (Urban Redevelopment Authority): The URA is the guardian of the building’s form. Their Conservation Guidelines (Category I, II, and III) dictate what can be demolished and what must be retained.5 For fire safety, this is critical because URA often prohibits the widening of external openings or the alteration of the roof profile, limiting options for smoke ventilation or external escape staircases.5
• SCDF (Singapore Civil Defence Force): The SCDF enforces the Fire Safety Act. Their primary concern is the safe evacuation of occupants and the prevention of fire spread. While the Fire Code is rigid for new buildings, Chapter 9 provides specific “relaxations” for conservation shophouses, acknowledging that strict adherence would often require the total demolition of the very timber structures URA seeks to protect.3
• BCA (Building and Construction Authority): BCA ensures structural integrity. Fire safety upgrades, such as the installation of heavy water tanks for sprinkler systems or the thickening of walls for fire resistance, have significant structural implications that must be approved by BCA.6

 

1.2 The “Whole Building Upgrading” Principle

 

A common misconception among first-time shophouse owners is that they can renovate only the ground floor (e.g., for a cafe) while leaving the upper residential floors untouched. 

Clause 9.9.1 of the Fire Code explicitly negates this. It states that the “upgrading of fire safety works shall be applicable to the whole building; partial upgrading of building is not allowed”.3

This principle is driven by the interconnected nature of shophouse risk. A fire in a ground-floor kitchen can rapidly spread through timber floorboards to the upper storeys. 

Conversely, a fire in an upper-floor office can compromise the structural stability of the floor below, endangering patrons on the ground level. 

Therefore, the submission to SCDF must encompass the entire building, and the fire safety strategy must be holistic.3

The only exception to this rigorous upgrading regime is found in specific residential contexts or “Minor Alterations and Additions” (MAA) where the risk profile does not change. 

However, for the vast majority of commercial renovations—especially those involving a “Change of Use”—full compliance is the baseline.7

2. Structural Fire Precautions: Managing Timber Elements

 

The defining characteristic of the traditional shophouse is its timber construction—specifically the timber floor joists, floorboards, and staircases. In modern construction, these elements would be required to be non-combustible (concrete or steel). 

The retention of timber poses a significant fire load and a risk of structural failure during combustion. 

The Fire Code 2023, therefore, mandates a tiered approach to protection based on the building’s height and use.

 

2.1 Timber Floors: Retention Strategies and Fire Ratings

 

The overarching requirement for timber floors in conservation shophouses is that they must be upgraded to achieve a specific Fire Resistance Rating (FRR). 

The method of achieving this rating depends heavily on whether the timber is to be left exposed (for aesthetic value) or encapsulated.

 

2.1.1 2-Storey and 3-Storey Shophouses

 

For shophouses not exceeding three storeys, the risk of collapse is considered lower than in taller structures, and the evacuation time is shorter. 

Consequently, the Fire Code allows for the retention of existing timber floors provided they achieve a ½-hour fire resistance rating.3

There are two primary methods to achieve this compliance:

1. Pressure Impregnation (Exposed Timber): This is the preferred method for conservation projects where the “old world charm” of exposed timber beams is a key selling point. The timber floorboards and joists are treated with flame-retardant chemicals through a vacuum-pressure impregnation process. This treatment alters the combustion properties of the wood, delaying ignition and slowing the spread of flame.3 It is crucial to note that “painting” the timber with fire-retardant varnish on-site is generally not sufficient to meet the deep penetration requirements of pressure impregnation; the timber often needs to be treated off-site or certified by a specialized process.3
2. Board Lining (Encapsulated Timber): If the timber is structurally sound but cannot be treated (or if the owner prefers a clean ceiling look), the underside of the floorboards (between the joists) or the entire ceiling can be lined with non-combustible boards. These are typically calcium silicate or gypsum-based fire boards. To achieve a ½-hour rating, the board thickness and fixing method must be tested and certified. This method protects the timber from direct flame impingement, effectively sacrificing the board to save the structure.3

The Five-Footway Exception: A notable relaxation exists for the timber floor joists and boards at the soffit of the “five-footway” (the covered pedestrian walkway at the front). 

SCDF allows these to be left exposed without additional protection.3 

This decision acknowledges the open-sided nature of the walkway, which allows heat and smoke to dissipate rapidly, reducing the thermal load on the timber structure above.

 

2.1.2 4-Storey Shophouses

 

For 4-storey shophouses, the requirements escalate significantly. 

The potential for vertical fire spread and the longer evacuation time necessitate a 1-hour fire resistance rating for all timber floors.3

Achieving a 1-hour rating with timber is technically demanding. 

Pressure impregnation alone is rarely sufficient to guarantee structural stability for 60 minutes under standard fire curve conditions. 

Therefore, the code mandates “full protection,” which typically implies the lining of the underside of the floor joists with high-performance non-combustible boards.3 

In many cases, this results in a flat plaster ceiling, hiding the timber joists entirely. 

While this may be seen as a loss of heritage character, it is a non-negotiable trade-off for the safety of a 4-storey timber structure.

 

2.2 Timber Staircases: The Vertical Escape Route

 

The timber staircase is the spine of the shophouse, often serving as the only means of vertical circulation. 

Its protection is paramount because if the staircase fails or becomes smoke-logged, occupants on upper floors are trapped.

 

2.2.1 Residential Shophouses (Single Family)

 

For residential shophouses that do not exceed 3 storeys and are occupied by a single family, the Fire Code is most lenient. 

The timber staircase can be left exposed and does not need to be compartmentalized.3 

This relaxation is based on the premise that a single family is familiar with the layout, has a low occupant load, and is likely to detect a fire early (especially with mandatory Home Fire Alarm Devices).

 

2.2.2 Commercial and Multi-Occupancy Shophouses

 

For commercial uses (offices, F&B, retail) or shophouses exceeding 3 storeys, the staircase serves as a public exit.

• Protection Requirement: The staircase must generally be protected by a fire-rated enclosure (walls and doors) achieving at least a 1-hour FRR.3
• The 2nd Storey Relaxation: SCDF provides a specific waiver for 2-storey non-residential shophouses. The timber staircase can be left exposed at the 2nd storey level (meaning no door at the top of the stairs) provided that the staircase is compartmentalized at the 1st storey with a 1-hour fire-rated enclosure and door. This effectively creates a “protected shaft” from the ground floor up, preventing smoke from the high-risk ground floor (shops/kitchens) from rushing up the stairs.3
• Travel Distance Condition: This relaxation is contingent on the travel distance on the 2nd storey complying with the code (typically <13m for a single exit). If the distance is excessive, the staircase may need to be fully enclosed or a secondary exit provided.3

 

2.3 Party Walls and Compartmentation

 

Shophouses are terraced buildings, meaning they share common walls with neighbors. These “party walls” are critical fire barriers. In pre-war construction, these are usually solid brick walls. 

Over decades, renovations may have compromised these walls with chases for electrical cables, pipe penetrations, or unauthorized openings.

During renovation, the QP must ensure the party wall maintains a minimum 1-hour FRR (or 2 hours depending on the occupancy of the adjacent unit).8 

Any amalgamation of units (knocking through the party wall) requires the installation of fire-rated lintels and often fire shutters or doors if the combined floor area exceeds compartment limits.2 

The “compartment floor” separating the ground floor from upper floors is also a critical barrier, especially if the ground floor is a restaurant and the upper floors are offices or residential. 

This floor must achieve a 1-hour rating, often requiring the ceiling of the ground floor to be heavily insulated.4

 

Table 1: Summary of Structural Fire Requirements for Shophouses

 

Element	2-Storey / 3-Storey Shophouse	4-Storey Shophouse	Relevant Clause
Timber Floors	Min. ½-hour FRR. Pressure impregnation or board lining allowed.	Min. 1-hour FRR. Full protection (board lining) usually required.	9.9.1b 3
Five-Footway Soffit	Can be left exposed.	Can be left exposed.	9.9.1b 3
Timber Staircase (Res)	Exposed allowed (if single family).	Must be protected (1-hr FRR).	9.9.1 3
Timber Staircase (Comm)	Exposed at 2nd storey allowed if enclosed at 1st storey.	Must be fully protected (1-hr FRR).	9.9.1 3
Party Walls	Min. 1-hour FRR.	Min. 1-hour FRR.	3.2 9

3. Means of Escape (MOE): Navigating Narrow Geometries

 

The geometry of a shophouse—long, narrow, and often with only one street frontage—presents unique challenges for Means of Escape (MOE). 

Modern buildings typically require two remote exits to ensure that if one is blocked by fire, the other is available. 

Shophouses often do not have the width to accommodate two separate staircases.

 

3.1 The “One-Exit” Scenario and the 13m Rule

 

For many intermediate shophouse units, providing a second exit is structurally impossible without breaching the party wall or destroying the rear facade. 

SCDF acknowledges this physical constraint but imposes strict limits on travel distance to compensate.

If there is only one escape route (a single staircase), the maximum travel distance from the most remote point of the floor to the exit door (or the protected staircase door) shall not exceed 13 meters for non-sprinkler-protected buildings.3

• Implication: A typical shophouse is often 20 to 30 meters deep. If the staircase is at the front, the rear of the building is effectively a “dead end” exceeding 13m. This renders the rear space unusable for high-occupancy purposes unless mitigated.
• Mitigation:

1. Rear Exit: The most common solution is to provide a rear exit leading to a back lane. This effectively provides two directions of escape. However, the back lane must be a gazetted public street or a secured right-of-way that is kept clear of obstructions. If the back lane is cluttered or blocked (a common issue in conservation areas), SCDF will not recognize it as a valid exit.10
2. Sprinklers: Installing an automatic sprinkler system can allow for extended travel distances (up to 25-30m depending on the specific layout and waivers granted), as the sprinklers actively suppress the fire, buying time for evacuation.3

 

3.2 Unprotected Openings and Setbacks

 

Fire can spread not just internally, but externally across the facade or through air wells. 

The Fire Code strictly limits the area of “unprotected openings” (windows/doors with non-fire-rated glass) based on the distance to the property boundary.

• The 1.5m Rule: Generally, there shall be no unprotected openings within 1.5m horizontally of the internal exit staircase ventilation/discharge point.3 This is to prevent smoke discharging from a window from being sucked back into the escape staircase.
• Rear Extension Setbacks: When adding a rear extension (e.g., for a kitchen), the new wall often sits on the boundary line. If this wall has windows, it poses a risk to the neighbor. SCDF requires strictly calculated setbacks. If the setback is insufficient, the wall must be blank (solid brick) or the openings must be protected by fire-rated glass or drenchers.7

 

3.3 Occupant Load Factors (OLF) and Staircase Capacity

 

A critical step in renovation planning is determining the Occupant Load. The intended use defines the density:

• Shop: 5.0 m²/person.
• Office: 10.0 m²/person.
• Restaurant (Dining): 1.5 m²/person.
• Bar/Pub: 1.0 m²/person.11

Scenario: A 100m² ground floor shop is converted into a bar.

• Shop Load: 100 / 5 = 20 persons.
• Bar Load: 100 / 1 = 100 persons.
  The existing means of escape (doors and corridors) must be assessed against this 5-fold increase in occupants. A standard 850mm or 900mm wide shophouse door is typically sufficient for ~50 persons. Increasing the load to 100 may require widening the exit (subject to URA approval) or adding a second door. If URA denies the widening due to conservation of the facade, the business capacity must be capped.2

4. Attic Additions: Expanding Upwards Safely

 

Adding an attic is a popular value-add strategy for shophouse investors. 

However, the conversion of a non-habitable roof space into a habitable attic triggers specific fire safety clauses designed to prevent the “chimney effect” and ensure structural stability.

 

4.1 Design Constraints: Area and Setback

 

To maintain the scale of the streetscape, URA and SCDF have harmonized their requirements:

• Area Cap: The floor area of the attic shall not exceed 50% of the floor area immediately below or 50m², whichever is less, per compartment.3
• Visual Setback: The attic enclosure must be set back at least 1.5 meters from the inner face of the front and rear facades.3 This ensures the attic is tucked away and not visible from the street, preserving the roofline.

 

4.2 Fire Rating of Attic Floors

 

The construction of the attic floor (which serves as the ceiling of the storey below) is critical.

• 2-Storey Shophouse + Attic: The timber floor joists and boards of the attic must be lined to achieve at least a ½-hour FRR.3
• 3/4-Storey Shophouse + Attic: The requirement increases to 1-hour FRR. This almost invariably requires the full encapsulation of the timber joists with fire-rated boards.3

 

4.3 Egress from Attics

 

An open connecting staircase (e.g., a spiral stair) from the floor below to the attic is permitted, provided the travel distance is measured from the furthest point of the attic down to the main exit of the building. 

If this cumulative distance exceeds the 13m limit (for single exit/no sprinkler), the design will be rejected. This often forces the placement of the attic stairs near the main building stairs to minimize travel distance.3

5. Active Fire Fighting Systems: The Hardware of Safety

 

While structural precautions are passive, active systems detect and suppress fires. 

For shophouse renovations, the integration of these systems is often the most expensive and spatially intrusive aspect of the project.

 

5.1 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems

 

Sprinklers are the “gold standard” of fire protection and are often used as a trade-off for other non-compliances (like extended travel distances).

• Mandatory Triggers: Sprinklers are required if the building undergoes a change of use to high-risk categories (e.g., boarding houses, nightclubs) or if the total habitable height/compartment size exceeds code limits.13 Crucially, SCDF circulars have noted that for certain conservation layouts where compartmentation is impossible, sprinklers become a mandatory compensatory measure.13
• Tank Sizing: The water storage requirement is massive. For an Ordinary Hazard Group 2 (OH2) occupancy (e.g., restaurant), the code requires a tank with 25.0 m³ to 37.5 m³ effective capacity.13

• Constraint: A 25-tonne tank cannot simply be placed on a timber roof. It usually requires a reinforced concrete plinth, structural strengthening of the building from the ground up, or placement in the rear yard (sacrificing GFA).
• Relaxation: In some cases, SCDF allows for “reduced capacity” tanks if the water inflow from the town main is reliable (proven via flow test).13

• Mezzanine Implications: If a mezzanine is added (or retained), sprinklers must be extended to cover the area under the mezzanine, as the ceiling sprinklers will be obstructed.14

 

5.2 Fire Alarm Systems

 

• Manual vs. Automatic:

• For shophouses not exceeding 3 storeys and/or amalgamation of not more than 2 units, a manual alarm system (break glass call points) is acceptable.3
• For shophouses exceeding 3 storeys or amalgamation of more than 2 units, an automatic fire alarm system (smoke/heat detectors) is mandatory.3

• Home Fire Alarm Device (HFAD): For residential shophouses, the installation of HFADs is now mandatory. These are often battery-operated or mains-powered standalone detectors that provide early warning within the unit.3

 

5.3 Dry Risers and Fire Engine Access

 

For shophouses exceeding 10m in habitable height (typically 4 storeys), a dry riser system is required to assist firefighters in pumping water to upper floors.

• The 18m Access Rule: A fire engine accessway must be provided within 18 meters of the dry riser breeching inlet.10
• The Narrow Street Problem: Many shophouses are located on narrow streets (e.g., Amoy St, Telok Ayer) where roadside parking or pedestrianization makes it impossible for a fire engine to get within 18m of the building face.
• Waiver/Solution: In such cases, the QP must propose a solution. This often involves extending the dry riser piping horizontally from the building to a location accessible by the fire engine (remote breeching inlet), or demonstrating that the hose reel coverage is sufficient to cover the gap.10

 

5.4 Hose Reels and Extinguishers

 

• Coverage: Hose reels must be located such that every part of the floor is within 36m of the nozzle (30m hose + 6m jet).14 In a compartmentalized shophouse, ensuring the hose can snake through doors and reach the furthest room is a design challenge.
• Extinguishers: Portable extinguishers (typically 2kg or 4kg ABC dry powder) must be placed near exits and in risk areas (kitchens, electrical risers).15

 

Table 2: Active System Requirements Matrix

 

System	Trigger Condition	Shophouse Challenge
Manual Alarm	< 3 Storeys, < 2 Units Amalgamated.	Easy to install.
Automatic Alarm	> 3 Storeys, > 2 Units Amalgamated.	Wiring in heritage ceilings; detector aesthetics.
Sprinklers	High risk use, large compartments, or as waiver compensation.	Tank weight (25T+), pipe concealment.
Dry Riser	> 10m Habitable Height.	Street access for fire engine (18m rule).
Hose Reel	Commercial use.	Finding space for drum; visual clutter.

6. Commercial Kitchens: The High-Risk Zone

 

The conversion of shophouses into F&B establishments is a primary driver of renovation activity. 

SCDF statistics indicate that commercial kitchens are a leading cause of fires in non-residential buildings. 

Consequently, the requirements for kitchen fire safety are among the most stringent.

 

6.1 Kitchen Exhaust Systems (KES)

 

The Kitchen Exhaust Duct (KED) is a potential super-highway for fire. Grease accumulation in the duct can ignite, carrying fire through the building.

• Construction: The duct must be constructed of non-combustible material (usually steel) and, if it passes through other compartments (e.g., through the 2nd-floor office to the roof), it must be fire-rated for the same duration as the compartment floor (typically 1 or 2 hours).16
• Cleaning Hatches: To prevent grease buildup, access panels must be provided at every change in direction and at intervals not exceeding 3 meters.16 A common failure in renovations is hiding the duct behind a false ceiling without providing access hatches, rendering the system un-maintainable.
• Discharge: The exhaust must discharge directly to the exterior. URA conservation guidelines often prohibit ducts on the front facade. Therefore, ducts are typically routed up the rear elevation or through an internal air well (which must then be fire-rated). The discharge point must be at least 3m away from any unprotected opening or fresh air intake.2

 

6.2 Fire Suppression Systems

 

Any kitchen hood serving cooking appliances (ranges, fryers, woks) must be protected by an automatic fire suppression system (commonly referred to as a “wet chemical” or Ansul system).16

• Mechanism: Upon detecting heat, the system discharges a chemical agent that reacts with the burning grease to form a soapy layer (saponification), cutting off oxygen and cooling the fuel.
• Interlock: The system must be interlocked with the gas supply and mechanical ventilation. When the suppression system activates, the gas must automatically shut off to starve the fire, and the exhaust fan typically continues running to remove smoke (subject to specific design).16

 

6.3 LPG Storage and Piped Gas

 

Many shophouse restaurants rely on LPG.

• LPG “Cylinder” Limit: SCDF restricts the storage of LPG indoors. Typically, a maximum of 2 x 15kg cylinders is allowed in a commercial kitchen without a specialized storage area. These must be housed in a 2.5mm thick steel cabinet.8
• Manifold Systems: Connecting multiple cylinders via a manifold to increase capacity is strictly regulated and often requires a dedicated LPG store with external ventilation, which is difficult to site in a terraced shophouse.8
• Piped Gas (City Gas): Piped gas is safer but requires running pipes through the building. Gas pipes passing through enclosed spaces must be sleeved and vented to the exterior to prevent gas accumulation in voids.8

7. The Submission and Approval Ecosystem

 

For the Qualified Person (QP) and the owner, the renovation process is a navigational exercise through the bureaucracy of safety and conservation.

 

7.1 The Corenet X Workflow

 

Singapore has transitioned to Corenet X, an integrated submission platform.17 The workflow for a shophouse renovation typically follows these stages:

1. Development Application (DA) to URA: This secures the “Change of Use” and approval for external works (e.g., rear extension, new windows). Without URA’s nod, SCDF plans cannot be finalized.2
2. Building Plan (BP) & Structural Plan (ST) to BCA: This covers the structural strengthening (e.g., for the sprinkler tank).
3. Fire Protection (FP) & Mechanical Ventilation (MV) Plans to SCDF: This details the active and passive fire systems. The QP submits these plans, certifying they comply with the Fire Code.18

 

7.2 The Waiver Process: Arguing “Undue Hardship”

 

Strict compliance with the Fire Code is often physically impossible in a heritage building (e.g., widening a 100-year-old timber stair to 1000mm would destroy it). 

In such cases, the QP applies for a Waiver.19

• Justification: The waiver must be based on “undue hardship” (e.g., structural impossibility, conservation mandate). Cost is not a valid reason.
• Compensatory Measures: SCDF rarely grants waivers without a trade-off. If the stair is too narrow, SCDF may grant the waiver subject to the installation of a full sprinkler system or enhanced fire alarm coverage. This negotiation is central to the design process.20

 

7.3 Registered Inspector (RI) and Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)

 

Once construction is complete, the QP cannot self-certify. An independent Registered Inspector (RI) must be engaged.

• Inspection: The RI inspects the works to ensure they match the approved plans. They check fire door gaps, test the flow rate of the hose reel, trigger the fire alarm, and inspect the fire stopping of pipes.21
• Form 1: If satisfied, the RI issues a “Form 1” certificate.
• FSC Issuance: The owner then applies to SCDF for the Fire Safety Certificate (FSC). Operating the business without an FSC is a serious offence under the Fire Safety Act, punishable by fines and potential closure.22

8. Cost Implications and Budgeting

 

Fire safety compliance is often the single largest “hidden” cost in shophouse renovation. 

A budget that accounts only for interior design and finishings will be woefully inadequate.

 

8.1 Active System Costs

 

• Sprinkler System: Retrofitting a sprinkler system in a shophouse can cost between SGD 4.00 and SGD 7.00 per square foot.23 For a typical 3,000 sq ft shophouse, this amounts to SGD 12,000 – SGD 21,000, excluding the cost of the tank, pumps, and structural reinforcement for the tank (which can easily double this figure).
• Fire Alarm & Intercom: A full automatic system can cost SGD 5,000 – SGD 10,000 depending on the number of zones and devices.

 

8.2 Passive System Costs

 

• Fire Rated Doors: A high-quality, 1-hour fire-rated timber door (to match the heritage aesthetic) costs between SGD 1,000 and SGD 1,500 per leaf.24 A project might need 10-15 such doors.
• Intumescent Paint: Protecting exposed steel beams with intumescent paint is labour-intensive and costly, often ranging from SGD 80 – SGD 120 per meter length depending on the required rating hours.
• Fire Stopping: Sealing the hundreds of pipe penetrations in an old building is tedious. A budget of SGD 3,000 – SGD 5,000 should be allocated specifically for fire stopping materials and labour.

 

8.3 Professional Fees

 

The QP (Architect/PE) fees for submission are standard, but the Registered Inspector (RI) is an additional cost, typically ranging from SGD 2,000 to SGD 8,000 depending on the project complexity (RI-Architectural and RI-M&E are often separate appointments).11

9. Operational Maintenance: Beyond Renovation

 

Compliance does not end with the renovation. The operational phase brings its own set of requirements.

 

9.1 Fire Safety Manager (FSM)

 

For larger developments (e.g., a row of amalgamated shophouses) or high-occupancy buildings (public building load > 200 persons), the owner must appoint a Fire Safety Manager (FSM).25 The FSM is a certified professional responsible for:

• Conducting fire drills.
• Ensuring escape routes remain clear (a common problem in shophouse corridors).
• Overseeing the maintenance of fire systems.

 

9.2 CERT and Emergency Response

 

Premises with high risk or large occupant loads may need to form a Company Emergency Response Team (CERT). 

These are staff members trained to respond to incipient fires before SCDF arrives.20

 

9.3 Annual Maintenance and Renewal

 

• Extinguishers: Must be serviced annually (with a sticker update).
• Hose Reels/Sprinklers: Pumps must be run regularly, and the system flow-tested annually.
• Kitchen Exhaust: SCDF and SFA require the kitchen exhaust duct to be degreased and cleaned at least once every 12 months by a specialist, with records kept for inspection.26

10. Conclusion: The Path to Compliance

 

Renovating a Singapore shophouse is a high-stakes exercise in balancing heritage preservation with modern life safety. 

The “relaxation” clauses for timber floors and staircases provided in Clause 9.9 of the Fire Code 2023 are the lifeline that makes these projects viable. 

Without them, the conservation shophouse as we know it—with its warm timber interiors and historic fabric—would cease to exist, replaced by concrete shells.

However, these relaxations are not blank checks. 

They are conditional waivers that demand strict compensatory measures: pressure impregnation of wood, installation of sprinklers, rigorous travel distance limits, and the protection of party walls.

For the property owner and investor, the key takeaway is that fire safety cannot be an afterthought. 

It is a fundamental design driver that dictates the maximum attic size, the location of the kitchen, the viability of the staircase, and ultimately, the approved use of the building. 

Early engagement with a specialized QP who understands the nuances of Chapter 9, coupled with a realistic budget for “unseen” safety systems, is the only way to ensure that the shophouse remains not just a beautiful relic of the past, but a safe and compliant asset for the future.

Detailed Checklist for Shophouse Fire Safety Compliance

 

Phase	Checklist Item	Relevant SCDF/URA Clause
Feasibility	Check if “Change of Use” is allowed for the zone.	URA Master Plan / Lodgement Scheme
	Assess width of rear back lane for fire engine access (>4m?).	Fire Code Cl. 4.2 10
	Determine Occupant Load based on intended use.	Fire Code Ch. 9 11
Design	Timber Floors: Decide on Impregnation vs. Board Lining (1/2 hr or 1 hr).	Fire Code Cl. 9.9.1b 3
	Staircase: Is it within 13m travel distance? If not, is a rear exit possible?	Fire Code Cl. 9.9.1g 3
	Attic: Does area exceed 50% of floor below? Is setback 1.5m?	Fire Code Cl. 9.9.1c 3
	Sprinklers: Is water tank space/structural support planned?	Fire Code Ch. 6 13
Submission	QP to submit plans via Corenet X.	17
	Apply for Waivers for heritage non-compliances (stair width, etc.).	19
Construction	Pressure Impregnation Certificate for all new/existing timber.	3
	Fire stopping of all pipe penetrations through walls/floors.	28
	Installation of Fire Doors with self-closers.	24
Completion	RI Inspection (Architectural & M&E).	21
	Application for Fire Safety Certificate (FSC).	22
	Setup of Fire Safety Instruction Manual.	9

End of Report.

Works cited

1. Fire Risk Assessment in Heritage and Conservation Buildings – King Fire Group, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.kingfiresg.com/fire-risk-assessment-in-heritage-and-conservation-buildings/
2. Limitations & Setbacks: A Guide To Revamping Shophouses – Kang Sheng Engineering, accessed November 26, 2025, https://ksengrg.com/limitations-setbacks-a-guide-to-revamping-shophouses/
3. Clause 9.9 Others – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/fire-code-2023/table-of-content/chapter-9-additional-requirements-for-each-purpose-group/clause-9.9-others
4. Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Fires Involving Conserved or Heritage Buildings, by Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.mha.gov.sg/mediaroom/media-detail/written-reply-to-parliamentary-question-on-fires-involving-conserved-or-heritage-buildings-by-mr-k-shanmugam-minister-for-home-affairs-and-minister-for-law/
5. How Crucial are URA Guidelines in Shophouse Renovation? – TCA Design and Build, accessed November 26, 2025, https://tcadesignbuild.com/blog/f/how-crucial-are-ura-guidelines-in-shophouse-renovation
6. How to Choose the Right Commercial Kitchen Exhaust System for Your Restaurant in Singapore, accessed November 26, 2025, https://directoryforcorporate.sg/how-to-choose-the-right-commercial-kitchen-exhaust-system-for-your-restaurant-in-singapore/
7. Singapore Civil Defence Force Fire Safety Checklist for … – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/fire-safety-docs/downloads/forms/fire-safety-checklist-for-building-plan-submissions.pdf?sfvrsn=83f335a6_9
8. Annex 10.1B – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/fire-code-2023/table-of-content/chapter-10-requirements-for-special-installations/annex-10.1b
9. CODE OF PRACTICE FOR FIRE PRECAUTIONS IN BUILDINGS 2023 – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/fire-safety-docs/firecode-2023-111220241013.pdf?sfvrsn=b3dc3c15_2
10. Clause 4.2 Provision for External Access to Building for Firefighting and Accessibility of Site to Firefighting Appliances – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/fire-code-2023/table-of-content/chapter-4-site-planning-external-firefighting-provision/clause-4.2-provision-for-external-access-to-building-for-firefighting-and-accessibility-of-site-to-firefighting-appliances
11. Singapore Commercial Fire Safety Guide 2025 | SCDF Requirements & Compliance, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.indesignmarketingservices.com.sg/singapore-commercial-fire-safety-guide-2025-scdf-requirements-compliance/
12. SCDF – Appendix (1), accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/fire-safety-docs/downloads/fire-code-2013/appendix-1.pdf?sfvrsn=6580b4d0_1
13. Clause 6.4 Fire Sprinkler Installation – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/fire-code-2023/table-of-content/chapter-6-firefighting-systems/clause-6.4-fire-sprinkler-installation
14. SCDF Mezzanine Requirements: Fire Code 2023 & BCA Guide, accessed November 26, 2025, https://structures.com.sg/scdf-mezzanine-requirements/
15. Fire Safety Checklist For New Business Owners – Liberty Fire Solutions, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.libertyfiresolutions.com/blog/fire-safety-checklist-new-business-owners/
16. The Complete Guide to Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Installation in Singapore, accessed November 26, 2025, https://commercialkitchenexhaust.sg/the-complete-guide-to-commercial-kitchen-exhaust-installation-in-singapore/
17. CORENET X COP 2.1 Edition 2024-11, accessed November 26, 2025, https://info.corenet.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/corenet-x-cop—2-1-edition-2024-11.pdf?sfvrsn=d54bf61_2
18. Checklists for Submissions of New and Additional/Alteration of Fire Safety Works – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/fire-safety-docs/downloads/circulars/checklists-for-submissions-of-new-and-additionalalteration-of-fire-safety-works.pdf?sfvrsn=a1addb47_1
19. Forms – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/downloads/forms
20. Various types of housing and their specific requirements – Ministry of Manpower, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-worker/housing/various-types-of-housing
21. Registered Inspector – Singapore – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/permits-and-certifications/registered-inspector
22. Fire Safety Certificate & Temporary Fire Permit – Singapore – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/plans-submission-process/fire-safety-certificate-temporary-fire-permit
23. Understanding the Cost of a Commercial Fire Sprinkler System – Fireline Corporation, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.fireline.com/understanding-the-cost-of-a-commercial-fire-sprinkler-system/
24. Complete Fire Rated Door Price Guide | HDB & Condo Singapore – Home Deceo, accessed November 26, 2025, https://homedeceo.sg/blog/complete-fire-rated-door-price-guide/
25. Fire Certificate – Singapore – SCDF, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scdf.gov.sg/fire-safety-services-listing/permits-and-certifications/fire-certificate
26. Guidelines for Licensed Food Retail Premises – Singapore Food Agency, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.sfa.gov.sg/food-retail/licence-permit/guidelines-for-licensed-food-retail-premises
27. SCDF & SFA Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Requirements: What You Need to Know – Skylane, accessed November 26, 2025, https://skylane.biz/scdf-sfa-kitchen-exhaust-cleaning-requirements-what-you-need-to-know/

Fire Safety Code Singapore 2018 | PDF – Scribd, accessed November 26, 2025, https://www.scribd.com/document/387451143/singapore