Florida Fire Code 47-02-4: Scorch marks around electrical outlet

Overview

Fire code 47-02-4 (Scorch marks around electrical outlet) is a Electrical Safety citation with 332 citations across Florida food establishments. Scorch marks around electrical outlets are evidence that arcing, overheating, or a small electrical fire has already occurred at that location.

Summary generated from Florida DBPR public inspection records and Florida fire safety statutes.

Legal reference: 509.032(2)(d) FS

What the Code Says

47-02-4 — Scorch marks around electrical outlet

Observed scorch marks, burn marks, or discoloration around an electrical outlet, switch, or panel indicating overheating, arcing, or prior electrical fire.

— Florida Statutes & Administrative Code, DBPR Fire Safety Reporting

Fire Safety Risk

Scorch marks around electrical outlets are evidence that arcing, overheating, or a small electrical fire has already occurred at that location. This is a warning sign that the wiring, outlet, or circuit is failing and a larger fire could occur at any time. Electrical fires can smolder inside walls for hours before breaking through, making them especially dangerous because they can be well-established before detection.

Legal Requirements

Any electrical outlet, switch, or panel showing scorch marks must be immediately taken out of service and repaired by a licensed electrician before being returned to use. The underlying cause (overloaded circuit, loose connection, damaged wiring) must be identified and corrected. Do not simply replace the cover plate — the wiring behind it must be inspected.

Legal Basis

509.032(2)(d) FS — The division, or its agent, shall notify the local firesafety authority or the State Fire Marshal of any readily observable violation of a rule adopted under chapter 633.

— 509.032(2)(d) FS

References

• Florida State Fire Marshal
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Florida DBPR Division of Hotels & Restaurants
• Florida Statutes Chapter 509

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florida fire code 47-02-4?

Florida fire code 47-02-4 (Scorch marks around electrical outlet) falls under the Electrical Safety category. Observed scorch marks, burn marks, or discoloration around an electrical outlet, switch, or panel indicating overheating, arcing, or prior electrical fire.

Why is fire code 47-02-4 (Scorch marks around electrical outlet) dangerous?

Scorch marks around electrical outlets are evidence that arcing, overheating, or a small electrical fire has already occurred at that location. This is a warning sign that the wiring, outlet, or circuit is failing and a larger fire could occur at any time. Electrical fires can smolder inside walls for hours before breaking through, making them especially dangerous because they can be well-established before detection.

What are the requirements for fire code 47-02-4?

Any electrical outlet, switch, or panel showing scorch marks must be immediately taken out of service and repaired by a licensed electrician before being returned to use. The underlying cause (overloaded circuit, loose connection, damaged wiring) must be identified and corrected. Do not simply replace the cover plate — the wiring behind it must be inspected.

How common is fire code 47-02-4 in Florida?

Fire code 47-02-4 (Scorch marks around electrical outlet) has been cited 332 times across Florida food establishments. In the past 12 months, there have been 0 citations.

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