Hazardous Materials

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Understanding the Difference Between Hazardous Material Fire Code Permits and CUPA Permits

If your business handles hazardous materials in Newport Beach, it’s important to understand the difference between a Hazardous Material Fire Code Permit and a CUPA Permit. Each serves a unique purpose and is issued by a different agency. Knowing which permit you need will ensure compliance with regulations and help protect your business, employees, and the community.

Hazardous Material Fire Code Permit

Issued By: Newport Beach Fire Department
Purpose: Focuses on fire safety and prevention related to the storage, use, and handling of hazardous materials.
Key Areas of Oversight:
- Proper storage of flammable and combustible liquids.
- Installation and maintenance of fire suppression systems.
- Secondary containment for hazardous materials.
- Ensuring emergency access and response readiness.
Examples of Activities Requiring This Permit:
- Storing or using flammable gases like propane.
- Handling reactive chemicals or oxidizers.
Examples of Reportable Amounts:
- Flammable Gas > 200 cubic feet
- Flammable Liquid > 5 gallons inside or 10 gallons outside
- Oxidizing Gas > 504 cubic feet

If it is determined that permits are required, depending on the operation or amounts of hazardous materials used, stored or handled a technical report will be required by an approved third party or fire protection engineer. Below are guidelines that need to be filled out if your business will be using, storing handling hazardous materials:

If you have questions about obtaining or renewing a Hazardous Material Fire Code Permit, contact the Newport Beach Fire Department Fire Prevention Division at 949-644-3106.

CUPA Permit (Certified Unified Program Agency)

Issued By: Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division CUPA (Certified Unified Program Agency)
Purpose: Ensures compliance with environmental regulations related to hazardous materials and waste.
Key Areas of Oversight:
Examples of Activities Requiring This Permit:
Reportable Amounts:

For questions about CUPA permits or environmental compliance, contact the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division at 714-834-4000 or OC Health / Haz-Mat Website.

Example Requiring Both Permits

If your business uses liquid CO2 bulk tanks for soda systems, you may need permits from both agencies:

Fire Code Permit:
- Liquid CO2 tanks are classified as compressed gases, which pose fire and safety risks. The Newport Beach Fire Department ensures the tanks are stored and used safely, with proper containment, placarding and emergency access.
- Fire code regulations may also require specific safety measures, such as gas detection systems and ventilation, to prevent hazardous conditions.
CUPA Permit:
- Liquid CO2 in bulk quantities (200 cubic feet or more) must be reported to the Orange County CUPA as part of your Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP).
- The CUPA oversees the environmental aspects of storage, including spill prevention, emergency planning, and compliance with state reporting requirements.

By obtaining both permits, you ensure that your operations are safe, compliant, and prepared for emergencies. Failure to secure the appropriate permits could result in fines or operational delays.

Still Unsure?

If you’re uncertain about which permit applies to your business, feel free to reach out to the Newport Beach Fire Department or Orange County CUPA. We’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure your operations remain safe and compliant.

Hazardous Waste Disposal

Looking to properly dispose of your business and household hazardous waste? Contact 714-834-6752 or visit OC Waste Disposal Website.

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