Event Safety
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If you are thinking about planning an event or conference, you must submit an event request to the Conference and Reservations, and Event Services (CRES) department. Event requests should be submitted at least 30 days prior to the event to assure adequate coordination and approval. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety collaborates with the CRES department to obtain event permits to assist with maintaining a safe event.
What you need to know
When do you need an event fire safety permit?
The North Carolina Fire Code (NCFC) and the North Carolina State Construction Office regulate fire-related activities to ensure safety on state owned properties. Below are the requirements for when permits are required and when they are not required for tents, air-supported structures, and canopies, pyrotechnics, grilling, recreational fires, open flames and candles.
- Tents
- A tent permit is required when:
- The tent exceeds 800 square feet with sides.
- The tent exceeds 1800 square feet.
- Multiple smaller tents are within 12 feet of each other and exceed a combined area of1800 square feet without proper separation.
- A tent permit is NOT required when:
- Tents under 800 square feet are open on all sides.
- The tent has a maximum size of 1800 square feet
- Multiple smaller tents are spaced at least 12 feet apart and do not exceed a combined area of 1800 square feet.
- A tent permit is required when:
- Air-Supported Structures
- A permit is required for an air-supported structure when:
- The structure exceeds 400 square feet.
- A permit is NOT required for an air-supported structure when:
- The structure is 400 square feet or smaller, provided it does not have multiple enclosed sides.
- A permit is required for an air-supported structure when:
- Canopy
- A canopy permit is required when:
- The canopy exceeds 400 square feet.
- A canopy permit is NOT required when:
- The structure is 400 square feet or smaller.
- A canopy permit is required when:
- Pyrotechnics (Fireworks) Permit
- A pyrotechnic permit is required when:
- Fireworks, sparkles, or other special effects will be used for an event.
- A licensed pyrotechnician will ignite or supervise the display.
- Fireworks are used in any indoor or outdoor performance.
- The event is held on state owned property.
- A pyrotechnic permit is NOT required when:
- The fireworks display is conducted entirely off-campus and on private property with local approval.
- A pyrotechnic permit is required when:
- Grilling Permits
- Generally, grilling permits are not required, however these basic steps are to be followed:
- The grill must not be within 10 feet of combustible structures.
- Only charcoal or propane must be used.
- A fire extinguisher should be readily accessible when grilling.
- Before grilling, inspect the propane tank gas lines for any leaks.
- Generally, grilling permits are not required, however these basic steps are to be followed:
- Recreational Fires:
- A permit is required when:
- The fire is larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
- The fire will be on state property.
- A permit is NOT required when:
- The fire is a small, controlled campfire in a designated fire pit or fire ring. Consult EHS for approval.
- The fire is contained in an approved outdoor fireplace at a private residence
- Note: All recreational fires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished after use. In addition, a fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site extinguishing equipment such as dirt, sand, water-barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
- A permit is required when:
- Bonfires:
- Are strictly prohibited on campus.
- Open flames and candles:
- Candles, incense, and other decorative flame devices are not permitted in residence halls, offices, or public assembly areas.
- It is highly recommended to use battery-operated or flameless candles.
How to apply for a permit?
For events requiring a fire safety permit, please submit your request at least 30 days in advance to ensure proper review and approval.
Services
The Environmental Health and Safety Office offers the following services:
- Consultative regulatory review
- Event permit authorization
- Signage
- Equipment testing and calibration
- Inspections
- Training
Resources
If you have any questions please contact EHS at 704-687-1111 or email ehsoffice@uncc.edu