General inspections are scheduled once a year for all businesses and apartments with three or more living units. The Fire Department does fire inspections at private homes on request. Direct questions about fire inspections to (608) 755-3056 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays.

Fire prevention is supervised by a Fire Marshal. The department's task is to educate the public and enforce state building codes relative to fire prevention and safety. The department organizes and trains department personnel to assist with this important responsibility.

The Fire Prevention Bureau is responsible for investigating fires, enforcing state fire codes, and coordinating public fire education efforts. They also spend time supporting shift personnel who need their expertise and support in conducting routine inspections in schools, hospitals, theaters and large manufacturing firms; reviewing building and remodeling projects; and conducting occupancy inspections. The Fire Prevention Bureau accomplishes approximately 5,000 fire and tank inspections each year on commercial properties and apartments with three or more units.