Purpose Statement
This article explains how to create a new occupancy within the Pre-Plan module using the Pre-Planned Map. Creating occupancies ensures that pre-plan data is correctly associated with CAD-dispatched addresses, allowing responders to access critical information quickly during incidents.
Background Information
Occupancies represent physical locations within First Due that can be associated with pre-plans, mapping data, and CAD-dispatched incidents. Creating an occupancy directly from the Pre-Planned Map allows administrators and authorized users to accurately place and define locations that do not yet exist in the system.
A critical requirement when creating an occupancy is ensuring the address entered exactly matches the address format sent by CAD. Address mismatches—such as differences in street suffix abbreviations—can prevent pre-plan data from appearing during active incidents.
Common use cases include:
Adding new buildings or developments
Creating occupancies missing from the system
Correcting gaps in pre-plan coverage
Prerequisites:
Access to the Pre-Plan module
Permission to create occupancies
CAD address standards available for reference
Required Permissions
Required:
- Pre-Planning> Edit - Create new occupancy on the map--Allows the User to double click on the pre-plan map to create a new occupancy with an address point.
- Pre-Planning> Edit - Create new occupancy Outside Area--Allows the User to double click on the pre-plan map to create a new occupancy with an address point outside of their home jurisdiction.
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access the Pre-Planned Map
Select the Main Menu> Pre-Planning> Pre-Plan Map
2. Locate the Address on the Map
Navigate the map to the location of the new occupancy
Zoom in as needed to accurately place the occupancy
3. Create a New Occupancy
Double-click on the desired location on the map
If permitted, a prompt appears
Select New Occupancy
4. Complete Address Details
Enter the full address for the occupancy
Ensure the address exactly matches the CAD-dispatched address
Critical Address Matching Guidelines
Match street name spelling exactly
-
Use the same street suffix format as CAD
Example: Street vs St
Example: Court vs Ct vs CRT
Verify unit, suite, or building identifiers if applicable
5. Publish the Occupancy
Complete any additional required fields
Select Publish
If enabled by your department:
Select a user to contribute the occupancy record with
6. Verify the Occupancy
Confirm the new occupancy appears on the map
Hover over the location to verify the address is associated correctly
Best Practices
Do’s
Follow CAD address standards exactly
Verify street suffixes and abbreviations
Confirm occupancy visibility on the map after publishing
Don’ts
Do not guess address formats
Avoid using unofficial abbreviations
Do not publish occupancies without verifying accuracy
Tips & Recommendations
Keep a CAD address reference guide available
Coordinate with dispatch when addressing standards change
Audit newly created occupancies during pre-plan reviews
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why doesn’t my pre-plan appear during a dispatch?
A: The occupancy address may not exactly match the CAD-dispatched address.
Q: I don’t see the option to create a new occupancy. Why?
A: You may not have permission to create occupancies.
Q: Can an occupancy be edited after publishing?
A: Yes. Occupancy details can be edited if you have the appropriate permissions.