ARCS Commissioning Test Report

The 2014 New York City Building Code states that new high-rise buildings need an Auxiliary Radio Communication (ARC) system. This system is only used by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) to help them talk inside a building using radios.

An ARC system includes:

• A base station (transceiver)
• Antennas in the building
• A radio console in the lobby

New York City Building Code, Section 917.1.2, and New York City Fire Code, Section FC 511, give rules for these systems. These rules explain how to install, test, operate and maintain ARC systems so they are compliant with the FDNY. The rules also require testing ARC systems to make sure they work well for firefighters.

After installing the ARC system, a test is needed to check if it works. The FDNY must accept the test report before they inspect the system. Also, a recertification test is needed every five years to make sure the system still works.

• Online applications only: Starting May 11, 2020, the NYC Fire Department (FDNY) will only accept online applications. For help with online filing, visit the FDNY Business Support Help Page.

• Select the correct category: You need to choose the ARCS Commissioning Test Report category on the FDNY business website.

• Submit a new or changed ARCS Commissioning Test Report: You need to submit these documents:

  • Completed TM-1 Application for Technology Management Plan Examination/Document Review
  • Copy of DOB PW-1 Application (if needed)
  • Copy of Department of Buildings Certificate of Occupancy or approved Schedule A
  • An affidavit from the registered design professional stating that the ARC system design, installation and operation meet all rules
  • Completed TM-ARCS-2 Visual and Functional Testing Form
  • As-built riser diagram and floor plans signed and sealed by the registered design professional
  • Floor plans for the whole building showing the test grid locations for each floor
  • Delivered audio quality (DAQ) and signal strength measurements for each test grid
  • Audio recording files with good audio quality at each grid location to be provided as individual files for each grid in categorized zip files
  • A list of all manufacturer names and part numbers for all equipment, devices and cables used in the ARC system
  • Detailed specification and National Recognized Test Laboratory (NRTL) listing details for all devices, cables and equipment
  • The make and model number of the spectrum analyzer used for testing and when it was last calibrated
  • A copy of B-03 Certificate of Fitness of the person performing the test
  • A copy of the fully signed Agreement Allowing use of In-Building Auxiliary Radio Communication System on Fire Department Radio Frequencies

• Submit a Recertification ARCS Commissioning Test Report: You need to submit these documents:

  • Completed TM-ARCS-2 Visual and Functional Testing Form
  • Copy of the Auxiliary Radio Communication System Letter of Approval
  • Copy of Department of Buildings Certificate of Occupancy or approved Schedule A
  • Floor plans for the whole building showing the test grid locations for each floor
  • Delivered audio quality (DAQ) and signal strength measurements for each test grid
  • Audio recording files with good audio quality at each grid location to be provided as individual files for each grid in categorized zip files
  • The make and model number of the spectrum analyzer used for testing and when it was last calibrated
  • A copy of B-03 Certificate of Fitness of the person performing the test

• Note: For complete information and required documents for approval and filing procedures of ARC systems, visit the All Certifications page of the FDNY business website. Follow the filing procedure as indicated on the FDNY business website, based on the type and time of filing of the application.

Review process

After you send in your application, you will get one of these letters:

• Letter of Deficiency: This means some things are missing. You must fix all problems and send it back within six months. If you do not, you will need to pay new fees.
• Letter of Acceptance: This means your application is approved. Once you get this letter, contact the Fire Alarm Inspection Unit to set up an inspection.

Abandoned application

Your application will be abandoned if:

• You do not answer a Letter of Deficiency within six months.
• You do not answer a request for more information email.

Recertification Test

You must take and send a Recertification Test to the NYC Fire Department every five years. This is required by 3 RCNY 511-01 section G.4.

• Application fees:

  • New application fees: $420
  • Amended application fees: $420
  • Recertification application fees: $420
  • Resubmission fees: No fee if submitted within six months of the Letter of Deficiency. After six months, the application is considered abandoned and may need a new filing fee.

• Submit the completed application: You must submit the completed application online with all supporting documents.

• Make payment: You must pay on FDNY Business to submit your application. To pay for extra invoiced fees after submission, use one of these methods:

  • Online (preferred): You must pay online at FDNY Business (credit, debit or e-check accepted).
  • U.S. Mail (check must include FDNY Business Record ID):

NYC Fire Department (FDNY)
Bureau of Fire Prevention
9 MetroTech Center, Attn: Cashier's Unit (1st Floor)
Brooklyn, NY 11201