What governs wiring used for fire alarms?

• A. NEC
• B. NFPA 70
• C. AHJ
• D. Building codes

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that there is a specific authority in every location that reviews, approves, and enforces fire alarm wiring. This Authority Having Jurisdiction decides which standards apply, ensures the installation meets those rules, issues permits, and performs inspections. In practice, fire alarm wiring must comply with established standards (such as the electrical code and fire alarm standards), but it is the AHJ who enforces those requirements in the field and can require specific methods, materials, or arrangements based on local adoption. The other references provide the technical rules that guide the wiring, but the ultimate governing body that grants permission and ensures compliance is the AHJ.