To convert a residence to an Assisted Living Facility (ALF) or Adult Family Care Home (AFCH), a Change of Occupancy permit will be required per Florida Fire Prevention Code NFPA 1-1.7.12.5 and the 6th Edition Florida Building Code, Existing Building. The application for this permit is submitted through the City of Cape Coral Building Division.

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• A copy of a site plan and a floor plan showing the intended layout of all rooms is required.

  • On the floor plan, identify bed locations, exit locations, and certified 5 lb fire extinguisher locations.

  •  All clients must have sleeping facilities in bedrooms. They cannot sleep in living rooms, garages, on porches, lanais, etc.

  • The bathroom(s) are required to comply with the Florida Building Code Building, Chapter 4, Section 464.4.5. ​

• To determine the type of fire sprinkler system that will be required per the Florida Building Code Section 903.2.8, include the number of residents and their evacuation capabilities (prompt, slow, or impractical) as defined by Florida Fire Prevention Code NFPA 101- 

  • 3.3.76.2 Prompt Evacuation Capability. The ability of a group to move reliably to a point of safety in a timely manner that is equivalent to the capacity of a household in the general population (3 minutes or less).

  • 3.3.76.3 Slow Evacuation Capability. The ability of a group to move reliably to a point of safety in a timely manner, but not as rapidly as members of a household in the general population (over 3 minutes but not in excess of 13 minutes).

  • 3.3.76.1 Impractical Evacuation Capability. The inability of a group to reliably move to a point of safety in a timely manner (more than 13 minutes).

• Provide copies of any State paperwork required for licensing.

Per Florida Building Code, Section 903.2.8, fire sprinklers are required in all ALFs, AFCHs, Group Homes, and alike regardless of the number of residents. 

• A facility or home with five or fewer persons can install a 13D fire sprinkler system.

• A facility or home with six to 16 persons can install a 13D fire sprinkler system, if the evacuation abilities are unassisted. If evacuation abilities are assisted, then a 13R fire sprinkler system must be installed.

• A fire sprinkler permit shall be applied for by a State of Florida licensed fire sprinkler contractor.

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A fire alarm permit may be applied for by a State of Florida licensed fire alarm contractor.

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Per Florida Mechanical Code, Section 403.2, Outdoor Air Required, an occupancy specific ventilation schedule will be needed for submittal, along with the details of the new ductwork. This will require a Mechanical Contractor to attach to the Change of Occupancy permit. This section will apply to most Single Family Residence (SFR) to ALF conversions.