There are very specific rules that are in place and enforced by both Pennsylvania DEP and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner relating to fire training in an acquired structure. Though it had been quite common in past decades to utilize acquired structures for local fire training, this practice is now closely regulated. Failure to follow these regulations may result in severe penalties.
The process required to conduct live fire training in an acquired structure involves the completion of Form 2700-PM-BAQ0002 in its entirety and submission to PA DEP along with a copy to US EPA. Additionally, the training must be conducted as part of the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy (PSFA) local level training program or be accepted by the PSFA.
DEMOLITION BY FIRE CANNOT BE AUTHORIZED BY ANY MUNICIPALITY, ELECTED OFFICIAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, FIRE CHIEF OR COUNTY DEPARTMENT OR AGENCY! PA DEP WILL PURSUE ACTION IN ALL SUCH VIOLATIONS.