Scope
The requirements of the California Fire Code (CFC) govern the use of tents, awnings, or other fabric enclosures, including membrane (air-supported and air-inflated) structures and places of assemblage, in or under which 10 or more persons may gather.
Exceptions:
- Tents and awnings used to cover or enclose private swimming pools on the premises of private one and two-family dwellings
- Tents used to conduct committal services on the ground of a cemetery
- Tents or awning erected and used within a sound stage, or other similar structural enclosure which is equipped with an overhead automatic sprinkler system
- Fabric structures which are part of mobile homes, recreational vehicles or commercial coaches
Definition
Tent: A structure, enclosure or shelter, with or without side-walls or drops, constructed of fabric or pliable material supported by any manner.
Permit Required (CFC 105.6.43 and 3103.2)
- Tents with an area in excess of 400 square feet
- Tents open on all sides (canopy) in excess of 700 square feet
- A canopy with one or more walls is considered a tent with regard to square footage requirements
Exception:
Tents open on all sides (canopies) which comply with all of the following:
- Individual tents having a size of less than 700 square feet
- The aggregate area of multiple tents placed side by side without a fire break clearance of 12 feet, not exceeding 700 square feet total
- A minimum clearance of 12 feet to all structures and other tents
Different fire departments have different procedures for obtaining a tent permit. To obtain a Tent Permit Application and learn the application process, click on the buttons below.