The Harlingen Fire Department is proposing new fees for fire prevention services, targeting contractors who request inspections before they're ready.

Under the proposed ordinance, contractors could be charged for plan reviews, permits and inspections. The money collected would go into the city's general fund.

Harlingen Deputy Fire Chief Joey Albritton said accountability is another goal, giving contractors more incentive to make sure a project is actually ready when they request an inspection.

"That would help by freeing up fire prevention's time so they can better allocate their personnel to do the other assignments that they have, like fire investigations, public education, community outreach, so that our staffing can be better utilized," Albritton said.

The department said there have been times when an inspector arrives at a project only to find a contractor or installer isn't ready, forcing another trip back and taking time away from other responsibilities.

The proposed fee schedule includes a $100 general fee for a plan review, $50 for a permit and another $50 for an inspection.

Albritton said the life-safety systems involved are required to be inspected under code, with the ultimate goal of making sure buildings are safe for the public.