Fire Evacuation Schemes
What is a Fire Evacuation Scheme?
A Fire Evacuation Scheme is a formal, legally binding set of procedures designed to ensure all occupants can safely and quickly exit a building during an emergency. It coordinates clear warden structures, escape routes, and specialized assembly points, and must be formally registered and approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).
Who requires a Fire Evacuation Scheme?
Under NZ law, you are required to have an approved FENZ Evacuation Scheme if your building is used for any of the following:
- Places where 100 or more people can gather for any purpose.
- Places where 10 or more people work.
- Places where overnight accommodation is provided for more than 5 people (e.g., hotels, motels, apartments).
- Facilities providing specialized care or housing for people with disabilities, children, or the elderly.
Unsure if your building meets the occupancy thresholds requiring a formal FENZ scheme? Contact our team directly for an expert assessment.
Why It’s Important & New Zealand Law
This service is explicitly governed by the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Regulations) 2018.
- Operating a building that requires an Evacuation Scheme without getting formal approval from FENZ is a serious breach of health and safety legislation.
- It protects your business or tenancy from severe financial penalties, operational closure notices, and director liabilities.
- Most importantly, an approved scheme removes chaos from a real emergency, protecting human life through structured organization.
