Big Hike in Smith County Inspection Fees

TYLER — A substantial hike is coming November 1 for inspection fees from the Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office. According to KETK, the fees have remained the same since the mid 80s. But over time, the cost of conducting these inspections continues to increase. According to the Fire Marshal’s Office, Jim Seaton, Smith County’s late fire marshal, initiated the increase. The office surveyed various cities, taking into consideration the actual time it takes to conduct these inspections as well as how much it costs in fuel to get to a given location. Based on the information from these surveys, county commissioners approved the request.

Fees for restaurant inspections will go up from $50 to $150, while warehouse inspection fees will jump from $50 to $250, and so on. Some of the other businesses affected by the increase: day cares, nursing homes, firework stands and foster homes.