DCD rejected my shop fit-out: what now?
Read the comments, update the fire safety drawings, and resubmit. We review the rejection and handle the resubmission.
The short answer
Read the DCD comments, update the fire and life safety drawings to answer each one, and resubmit. Common reasons are partition or ceiling changes that were not shown, a fire alarm or sprinkler layout that was not updated, blocked escape routes, or a missing LPG approval or undertaking. Structural Solutions reviews the rejection, corrects the drawings and resubmits to DCD as consultant.
Need the stamp?
Upload your fit-out drawings and trade licence. We stamp them as consultant and initiate the mall, authority and DCD approvals on your behalf.
Request a mall fit-out stamp →What you need to know
- Every change: Partitions, ceilings and any decoration update need DCD approval.
- Consultant submits: Structural Solutions submits the fire and life safety drawings to DCD.
- LPG or gas: If LPG or gas is used, the approved LPG or gas provider needs its own approval; with electric cooking, an undertaking letter is submitted to DCD instead.
- Before opening: DCD final inspection and completion certificate.
Documents for the submission
- Trade licence and tenancy contract (lease or Ejari)
- Unit plan and the mall or landlord fit-out requirements
- Fit-out drawings: partitions, ceilings and finishes
- MEP and fire safety drawings
- Fit-out contractor details
Who does what
Step by step
We confirm the route for your unit before you start.
| Step | Approval route | Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Landlord or mall approval Mall, landlord or building management | Approval of the fit-out first. | — |
| Fire safety drawings Structural Solutions (consultant) | Drawings for the new layout, partitions and ceilings. | Which drawings? |
| DCD submission Structural Solutions → DCD | We submit as consultant and answer comments. | Who submits? |
| LPG or gas Approved LPG or gas provider | Separate approval, or an undertaking letter for electric cooking. | LPG approval |
| Final inspection Dubai Civil Defence | Inspection and the completion certificate before opening. | What DCD checks |
Questions
Related questions
Why are fit-outs rejected?
Missing partition or ceiling changes, outdated fire safety layouts, blocked exits or missing LPG approvals.
Can you take over a rejected submission?
Yes. We review it and resubmit as consultant.
Does the mall need to approve again?
If the layout changes, the mall may need to review the updated drawings.
What about the final inspection?
It follows the approval.
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