Events

  1. Purpose

    This section establishes the acceptable criteria for use of tents and canopies on grounds of the University of Minnesota. The Building Code Division must approve and provide authorization for use of these structures.

  2. Scope

    The provisions set forth in this document are applicable to tents having an area in excess of 200 square feet and canopies in excess of 400 square feet. These temporary structures do require a Building Permit. Call Peggy Kristyniak at 612-625-2437 to obtain a building permit application form.

  3. Definitions

    Canopy: A structure, enclosure or shelter constructed of fabric or pliable materials supported by any manner (except by air or the contents it protects) and is open without sidewalls or drops on 78 percent or more of the perimeter

  4. Provisions
    1. These structures shall not be used for a period of more than 90 consecutive days within a 12-month period on a single location.
    2. Tents, including guy wires and ropes, shall not be located within 20 feet of other tents, temporary membrane structures, buildings, automobiles, or property lines.
    3. These structures shall be properly constructed and erected to prevent weather related collapse. Documentation of structural stability shall be provided upon request.
    4. Tents shall not be erected so as to block building exits or emergency vehicle fire department alleys or block fire lanes. Contact Chris Wilbur the University's Fire Inspector to verify requirements.
    5. These structures shall be constructed of flame-resistant material or shall be treated with a flame retardant in an approved manner. Floor coverings and combustible decorative materials shall be composed of like material. Labels shall be affixed bearing identification of such materials.
    6. Tents require a minimum of one 10-Pounds A-B-C potable fire extinguisher. Call University Fire Inspector, Chris Wilbur, 612-626-9458 to confirm the number and type of additional fire extinguishers required.
    7. Seating arrangements and maximum occupant load shall be in accordance with the Building Code.
    8. Exits shall be placed so that all point are 100 feet or less from an exit. The number or required exits shall be based upon occupant load.
    9. Exit signs shall be installed at required exits when serving an occupant load greater than 50. Exit signs shall be illuminated with an occupant load greater than 300.
    10. Sources of ignition, cooking, use of flammable and combustible liquids, and LP gas must be identified and specifically authorized by Chris Wilbur.
    11. Electrical use and wiring must be conducted by or under the approval of Facilities Management. Electrical power to the tent(s) must be inspected and approved by the University Electrical Inspector before being energized. Call Scott Novotny at 612-624-6502 for an inspection.
    12. Smoking is prohibited in tents and membrane structures.
    13. Tent canvas and cover materials must be permanently labeled to certify flame resistance characteristics controlled by the fire code.
    14. Cooking in tents (or outside of tents) is required to be approved by the University Department of Environmental Health and Safety Sanitation officer Janic Viola at 612-626-5935.
    15. Exits, crowd control, conflicting events, Fire Department access, parking conflicts and emergency response contingency plans are related issues for other departments but primarily for the University Police Department or Emergency Preparedness Department