Free access

Does NFPA provide free access to its codes and standards?
Yes. Even though NFPA owns those copyrights, we have offered free access to all of our codes and standards on our web site for the past 10 years.

Can the codes and standards be downloaded or printed?
This is a read-only site—documents cannot be downloaded or printed, because we rely on the revenues from people who want to own their own copies to fund the mission of NFPA. But for users who need to familiarize themselves with a code or check a requirement, this kind of access is invaluable.

Can the codes and standards be viewed on mobile devices and tablets?
Yes. The codes and standards are optimized for these devices.

Does NFPA’s free access satisfy those who say all codes should be freely available?
It should satisfy the wishes of those who feel that, as a matter of legal principle, all mandated regulatory requirements should be available at no charge to the public online.

Why doesn’t NFPA just give away their codes and standards?
It is essential that NFPA maintain copyright and the ability to charge for the codes and standards. Most of the money we need to fund our process and other vital mission activities comes from the sale of codes. We also derive funding from the sale of related products and services.

Learn more about free access to NFPA codes and standards.