GA SB501

Creates a new Deputy Commissioner of Safety Fire position to head the Safety Fire Division, with the State Fire Marshal working in coordination with this deputy on personnel appointments and operations.

Establishes a seven-member appeals board, chaired by the State Fire Marshal, to review local governing authority rulings on building permits related to fire safety standards, with hearings required within five business days of appeal submission.

Authorizes the Commissioner or designee to issue immediate evacuation orders for any building presenting an imminent life safety hazard, and grants subpoena power for investigations related to fire safety matters.

Increases the smoke detector maintenance violation fine from $25 to $250 per detector and raises the manufactured home reinspection fee from $15 to $250.

Requires immediate reporting of fire or smoke fatalities to the Safety Fire Division by coroners or medical examiners, who cannot move decedent bodies until authorized by fire marshal personnel.