DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS PERMIT FOR TENT OR MEMBRANE STRUCTURES ERECTED ON STATE OWNED PROPERTY. Permit applications for tents or membrane structures erected on state owned property must be obtained from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Code Enforcement Bureau.

Permit shall be obtained through the Fire Prevention Bureau for each:

• Tent – A structure, enclosure, or shelter; with or without sidewalls or drops, constructed of fabric or pliable material supported by any manner except by air or the contents it protects.
• Temporary Stage Canopy – A temporary ground-supported membrane covered frame structure used to cover stage areas and support equipment in the production of outdoor entertainment events.
• Membrane Structure – An air-inflated, air-supported cable or frame covered structure as defined by the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code and not otherwise defined as a tent.
• Air Inflated Structure – A structure that uses air-inflated membrane beams, arches, or other elements to enclose space. Occupants of such a structure do not occupy the pressurized areas used to support the structure.
• Air Supported Structure – A structure wherein the shape of the structure is attained by air pressure, and occupants of the structure are within the elevated pressure area.

Permit applications may be submitted electronically at: fireprevention@springfieldfire.com

Full text of Rule 31 is available at: https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-1301:7-7-31

The application shall be accompanied by two sets of drawings and specifications (no larger than 11" x 17") that clearly show compliance with the Ohio Fire Code or other referenced standards, including:

• Drawn to scale or dimension showing property lines and public ways.
• Show buildings or structures on the site and indicate the nature of their use.
• Site layout with location and size of each tent, canopy, and membrane structure.
• Purpose or activities to be held in each structure.
• Affidavit stating date of most recent flame-retardant treatment for each structure, including:
  • Applicator
  • Serial number of tent(s), canopy, or air membrane structure
• Arrangement of seating, tables, and stages inside or near the structure.
• Location of portable fire extinguishers (minimum 2-A rating, clearly visible and accessible).
• Approved, illuminated exit signs at each designated exit for tents with 50+ occupants.

Important Deadlines:

• Permit application must be filed with the Fire Prevention Bureau at least 5 business days before erection.
• A permit must be obtained before erection of any tent, canopy, or air-supported membrane structure.
• Applicant must contact Fire Prevention Bureau (419-865-4136 ext. 2) at least 2 business days before the event to schedule inspection.