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Fire Safety

The above map illustrates the fire lanes throughout campus. By the Florida Fire Prevention Code, (Chapter 18), vehicles, golf carts, gators, trailers, or other mobile equipment are not permitted to park in these areas.

Please Note: This page is approximate and may not reflect all fire lanes.  Please verify with EHS and facilities record drawings for more details on fire lanes around building sites.

Environmental Health and Safety has Certified Fire Safety inspectors based at UCF to help improve efficiency. We will continue to work in partnership with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to ensure UCF meets all required codes and keeps our community safe.

The State Fire Marshal’s office will still handle Annual Inspections.

Those needing a Construction Fire inspection or who need to have plans reviewed should contact the Building Department at (407) 823-5323. For more information about EHS visit the website: www.ehs.ucf.edu.

Fire trucks parked along a paved walkway lined with trees, people walking around, and an American flag waving in the background. The scene appears to be in a public area on a clear day.

Fire Safety Contacts

Fire Safety Resources

Current Florida Fire Conditions
UCF Fire Plan
State Fire Marshal
Florida Administrative Code
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
US Fire Administration
Firewise
UL 300 Standard Update

Fire Safety Guidelines

University facilities are well equipped with Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems (HVAC). Should you find yourself in a hot or cold spot, please contact the Work Control Center at (407) 823-5223. A comfortable environment may only be a damper adjustment away.

For information on the university’s policy on indoor environmental conditions and the use of convenience appliances, please refer to the Energy Sustainability Policy (#3-111).

Once the approval for appliance use has been obtained from the appropriate department and your facility managers, please contact the fire safety office for additional information on safe use and guidelines specific to your location and equipment request. You may contact any of our fire safety staff for additional details.

Extension cords are not permitted to be used as permanent wiring at any time. We are however allowed to use surge suppressor strips (the kind with a little light and fuse which you may already be using for your computer). These must plug directly into a wall outlet and your equipment must then plug directly into the suppressor. All suppressors are to be UL-listed and bear the UL symbol.

The following are some of the items that are not approved and will be required to be removed if found:

  • Three-way outlet splicers (the little box that makes 1 plug into 3).
  • Outlet boxes (usually a silver box with 4 plugs on the top and a long black cord).
  • Home use extension cords (usually brown or white lightweight cords).
  • Heavy-duty extension cords (when not being used temporarily).
  • The wires should be free of tape and splices and the insulation free of worn spots.
  • Cords should not be run under carpeting or desk mats.

Most of the cords can be replaced with a surge suppressor purchased from your campus office supply store. If additional outlets are needed, a Facilities Improvement request may be filed with Facilities Operations.

Please share this information with others in your office. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Diana Smith.

Each event planning to have outdoor open flames on University property must be reviewed in advance by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety in addition to following the SAFE form requirements, where applicable. A responsible representative of the event who will be in attendance for the fire activity must meet with EH&S fire staff to review event details as outlined on the form here: Guidelines for Outdoor Recreational Fires and Open Flames.

The following conditions will apply:

  • All open flames, including those associated with grilling equipment, must be a minimum of 10 feet from any building.
  • Open flames are not permitted on any landscaped or finished area.
  • Flying sky or floating lanterns and similar open flame devices released uncontrolled into the environment are not permitted.

Resources

Fire Safety Guidelines Contact

Fire Protection Systems and Equipment Information

Smoke control systems shall be periodically tested as required by NFPA 92. Documented testing shall be comprehensive of all system components and sequencing such as initiating devices, fans, dampers, controls, doors, and windows. Testing shall determine airflow quantities at a minimum across smoke barrier openings, makeup air supplies, and at smoke exhaust equipment. Systems shall be exercised for each sequence with verified outputs for each input and demonstrated on emergency power where provided.

Coordination is needed with fire alarm, HVAC, generator, and doors\damper\opening service personnel to fully demonstrate all integrated components. A system operation and maintenance log shall be maintained with the records of the periodic testing reflecting the performance verification of all system elements.

Where employees are expected to perform minor fire alarm services each is to have adequate training for the tasks identified with records of training maintained. The department’s choosing to have Clean Agent or Early Detection systems for equipment protection shall designate local Departmental personnel to respond to signals and alarms, perform routine inspections, and oversee general system operation, maintenance, and coordination with the Physical Plant where needed. Choose the appropriate form below for each training type, fill out the blanks completely, and have signed as indicated here:

  1. Initialed by the trainer as a qualified individual (manufacturer\alarm company rep or authorized training personnel) indicating they have instructed each of the identified tasks.
  2. Signed by the employee acknowledging comfort with the tasks identified and acceptance of the responsibility (not every employee will necessarily have every box checked).
  3. Signed by the employee’s supervisor agreeing the staff member is qualified and authorized to do those functions identified. The original form was forwarded to EHS for a permanent record. Keep departmental copies and action plans as needed.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are provided throughout UCF-owned campus buildings where required by NFPA 10 and the State Fire Marshal. The UCF Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Program is managed by the Fire Safety Coordinator in Environmental Health and Safety and funding for the program is provided by Physical Plant for E&G facilities and billed equally to Auxiliaries in their proportion.

Fire extinguishers in your area should be checked monthly to ensure proper operating conditions. Use this guide to understand how to perform quick monthly checks for your area’s extinguishers: Fire Extinguisher Monthly Inspection

To request fire extinguisher maintenance, arrange a swap out, or report a missing or damaged extinguisher please email Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Request.

Please include the following information in your request:

  • Location of the fire extinguisher including:
  • Building name
  • Building Number
  • Closest room number
  • Type of service needed (e.g., damaged, missing, etc.)
  • The serial number of the unit, if available

The campus currently has approximately 3000 units in inventory. Only those required by code are provided in building design. To keep costs down, areas are periodically reviewed for optimal placement of units to avoid over-coverage. Departments wishing to have extra units in place (see Specialty Extinguishers and Vehicles) for special needs may request them and fund accordingly.

Vehicle units should only be provided when required by regulating agencies for DOT and response vehicles where staff with adequate skills have sufficient training to use them properly. At this time there is only a charge to provide units for new installations\vehicles or replacement of the missing at $55 per 10lb extinguisher. The budget does not cover vehicle brackets though we can refer you to suppliers on the web.
While we provide the unit at the start, the department that requests vehicle units is responsible for ensuring they are maintained properly. Visual inspections should be done at least monthly to ensure it is still in good standing and to verify when service is needed. They are good for 1 year from the date punched on the tag, at which time they need to be swapped out with another unit since tagging in place is not practical. Inventory is limited with the priority being for campus buildings. Requests will be serviced as soon as possible.

Costs for new extinguishers such as those required for kitchens (Class K) and combustible metals (Class D) are to be covered by the department/project bringing in the new hazard. The local maintenance contract vendor typically offers a competitive price and facilitates convenient ordering and delivery. The department may provide an account number for reimbursement and the unit will be ordered, inventoried, and delivered by our office for your convenience. Units purchased directly such as with a P-card should be verified to be to campus standard and our office is notified to include the new device in the annual maintenance rounds.

Units are required to receive a licensed vendor inspection once annually with the new tag provided. Units with an outdated or missing tag, missing pin seal, or showing a gauge pressure beyond the green zone are considered out of compliance and are to be turned in for service. Annual tags may appear as a hanging tag on the front or stuck on the side.

Occasionally the need arises where fire extinguishers may be needed temporarily. Loaner extinguishers are available in conjunction with approved University activity or an approved campus Safe Event Form. Event or University staff may sign out an extinguisher and stand for temporary placement. If the loaner is vandalized or stolen the replacement costs are due from the responsible party\department\event sponsor.

Fire extinguisher training classes are offered periodically schedule permitting. Departmental groups of at least 8 verified participants may request a session locally. A new training simulator with low environmental impact was recently made available to facilitate training sessions at more convenient locations closer to campus buildings.

Hot Work Safety Program

The Hot Work Safety Program establishes minimum requirements for performing hot work operations on university properties.

A hot work permit is required for any operation on UCF properties involving open flame or producing heat and sparks as defined by the Florida Fire Prevention Code. This work includes but is not limited to welding and allied processes (e.g., oxy-fuel gas welding, open-flame soldering, brazing, thermal spraying, oxygen cutting, arc cutting), grinding, thawing pipe, torch-applied roofing, hot riveting, and heat treating. Hot work is not intended to include candles, pyrotechnics or special effects, cooking operations, electric soldering irons used safely, or the use of burners and similar standard laboratory equipment in approved laboratory spaces.

Responsibilities

A hot work permit is required for any operation on UCF properties involving open flame or producing heat and sparks as defined by the Florida Fire Prevention Code. This work includes but is not limited to welding and allied processes (e.g., oxy-fuel gas welding, open-flame soldering, brazing, thermal spraying, oxygen cutting, arc cutting), grinding, thawing pipe, torch-applied roofing, hot riveting, and heat treating. Hot work is not intended to include candles, pyrotechnics or special effects, cooking operations, electric soldering irons used safely, or the use of burners and similar standard laboratory equipment in approved laboratory spaces.

Departments requesting or performing hot work whether, by internal staff, students, or hired contractors are responsible for ensuring safe operations. Departments with ongoing operations shall establish an approved hot work program plan and designate a PAI to coordinate and oversee permitted activities and ensure that operators are provided with adequate training for the work task they are assigned.

EHS has the responsibility for assisting departments in developing appropriate hot work safety plans and providing technical guidance by:

  • Working with PAIs to develop departmental programs.
  • Training PAIs in permit review and authorization.
  • Issuing Designated Area permits for fixed research and shop locations.
  • Reviewing permits for incidental entities that do not fall under designated PAIs.
  • Reviewing programs periodically for continued compliance.
  • Providing oversight by applicable codes and standards, and where necessary has the responsibility and authority to halt any unsafe practices.
  • Assisting with employee training on hot work and fire safety. (EHS provided general safety review training, not the actual skills needed for hot work processes or technical equipment use.)

The PAI is responsible for the safe operations of hot work activity under their supervision. These duties include but are not limited to:

  • Being familiar with the hot work processes utilized by their department.
  • Supervising the hot work operators and verifying they are adequately trained and provided with the appropriate protective equipment.
  • Reviewing the hot work process and location before each work starts to determine the site-specific hazards, equipment, and safety features required are present and in usable conditions.
  • Completing the PAI checklist to approve and issue hot work permits to hot work operators.
  • Providing EHS a copy of all permits issued, and notifying EH&S and facilities operation before the start of work.
  • Verifying appropriate Florida Building Code permits are in a place where appropriate for the work scope.
  • Ensuring that only approved apparatus, such as torches, manifolds, regulators, and pressure-reducing valves, are used.
  • Determining that fire protection and extinguishing equipment are properly located and readily available.
  • Ensuring sufficient local exhaust ventilation is provided to prevent the accumulation of any smoke and fume.
  • Ensuring the designated fire watch personnel are staffed.
  • Verifying Facilities Operation has been adequately notified for coordination.

Departments will establish PAIs to coordinate with EHS in establishing an approved department hot work program. PAIs will oversee the hot work permit process for the staff, students, and contractors under their supervision by their approved program. The department is required to coordinate all necessary hot work fire watch personnel for the duration of the hot work.

Departments requesting Designated Area (DA) permits will contact EHS for program review and approval. A Designated Area is a fixed shop or research-type space where repetitive hot work is planned to be conducted consistently. An annual permit will be issued once the program is approved and all required safety training is complete.

A procedure manual shall be submitted to EHS by the Department requesting hot work. Designated Areas must maintain an updated copy at the DA location including a list of approved operators to conduct work under the supervision of the PAI. The procedure will need to address the items listed here at a minimum:

  • Designated PAI (Note: In research areas, the Principal Investigator (PI) is responsible for all activities under their supervision. A PI may delegate a PAI.)
  • Policies and Procedures Specific to the Department’s Operations
  • Authorized Users and HWO’s
  • Fire Watch Procedures
  • Fire Prevention Equipment
  • Hot Works Equipment Manual’s
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Personal Protective Equipment Specific to Each Operation
  • SDSs (formerly MSDSs)
  • Approved Annual Permit for Designated Areas
  • Fire Safety Training Requirements and Records
  • Instructions to Contractors Covered by the Program

HWOs shall fill out and obtain approval for the permit request from the applicable PAI or EHS by this program. All precautions as required by the Florid Fire Prevention Code, NFPA 51B, and ANSI Z49.1 must be met or the hot work is not approved. Each department plan will outline the additional minimum notice required by their PAI. For EHS reviews, HWOs must fill out and submit a Hot Work Permit Request Form five (5) workdays before the start of work to ensure adequate processing time. Emergency work will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Incomplete requests will not be approved. Contractors may submit their company hot work program to EH&S in advance for review and archiving to help expedite future requests.

Planned work requiring alarm or suppression system bypass and associated fire watch requires a minimum of 10 days’ notice to Facilities Operations (FO). Coordinate work through FO work control (407) 823-5223 and or your project manager; a work order may be required. Accidental alarm or suppression activation and subsequent consequences are the responsibility of the hot work operator\requester.

The PAI will review each request, inspect the site and equipment before the start of work by the checklist, and approve the request noting any special conditions. If upon the time of work, the HWO does not have the required or adequate equipment, the permit is null and void and the work is not approved.

Periodic program review will be executed by EHS to ensure continued compliance for all departmental programs and designated locations.

Pyrotechnics

Pyrotechnics and special effects displays on University Property are considered for approval on a case-by-case basis. Advance approval is required from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), and the appropriate University Department or Facility Manager overseeing the proposed area before permit application to the Florida State Fire Marshal (SFM). Only select locations are considered at the discretion of the authorities above. Discharge or trajectory of any device over an audience, campus building, environmentally sensitive zone, or occupied parking area is strictly prohibited. An approved permit is required for all pyrotechnic events and a legible copy of the approved application is required to be provided on-site by the operator.

The signed Permit Application for the Use of Pyrotechnic Displays Form is to be submitted to UCF EHS by the pyrotechnics vendor not less than Thirty (30) calendar days in advance of the event. A complete package including all attachments outlined in the application must be submitted for review. Should there be any reason an item is presumed not applicable, provide written justification for that section in the submittal. To ensure a smooth review process, please organize and present the application and submittal contents in the order they are requested and numbered in the Application Checklist. (Note: The form requires UCF Facility Management approval and confirmation of Independent Fire Watch.)

Electronic submission to EHS is preferred through the UCF sponsor/facility manager so the appropriate sections on page three of the application can be completed. Once the application is reviewed by EHS and found in compliance with the University guidelines it will be forwarded to the State Fire marshal for permit review. Additional forms and signatures will be required as dictated by the SFM.

The event sponsor (UCF Club or Department or Facility Operator) shall also complete and submit the Safe Action for Event (SAFE) Approval form to be circulated separately but to indicate the extent of pyrotechnics proposed for the location. This event approval will be noted as contingent upon the successful completion of the Pyrotechnics Permit process.

Verification of insurance is required and shall be submitted before the event.  The applicant is to provide proof of General Liability Insurance for the pyrotechnics display in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. The University of Central Florida Board of Trustees, The Florida Division of State Fire Marshal Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the State of Florida shall be listed as additionally insured but other entities such as UCFAA and individual facility management companies may also be shown as needed or requested.

An independent pyrotechnics fire watch as described herein is to be provided by the facility management. A copy of the approved application and show features will be forwarded to the individual for their reference at the time of the event. The facility management is required to provide the fire watch with communication means (radios) that function within that facility to allow for direct contact with the fire panel watch, event management, and the pyrotechnic operator as needed.

Where a demonstration of an effect is requested by the State Fire Marshal or EHS, such demonstration shall be arranged in advance to be scheduled from 8 AM – 5 PM Monday through Friday in the event facility. Items which cannot be accommodated within these parameters will be subject to deletion from the event request.

The Office of Environmental Health and Safety reserves the right to disapprove any event or effect at any time, even if previously approved. The vendor will be notified as quickly as possible should any problems become apparent.

General Considerations

Only select locations are considered. Please verify with the office of UCF EHS in advance of your requested location’s availability for pyrotechnic accommodations.

All proposed effects shall be restricted as deemed in the best interest of safety by the permitting authority. The items below are identified with limitations as noted, additional effects may be included as needed during the review process.

Prohibited Indoors

  • Comets: A pellet of composition that is propelled from a mortar or shell and produces a long-tailed effect.
  • Large Waterfalls: Effects such as multiple gerbs suspended overhead near discharging down for a cascading waterfall appearance.

Restricted Indoors

  • Propane Flame Effects: allowed with location and discharge heights limited for approved clearances. All effects are to be arranged to stay within the stage area boundary and maintain heights below overhead structures with a minimum clearance of at least 20′.

All drapes and scenery are required to be fire retardant and documentation is provided with the application. No glowing or flaming particles are to be within 10′ of the audience or stage personnel unless prior arrangements have been made specifically for certain performers. Each device shall be at least 15′ from the audience or 2X the fallout radius, whichever is greater. A minimum of 25′ is to be provided to all concussion mortars. Confetti cannons shall not be arranged to discharge in the vicinity of pyrotechnic effects.

Pyrotechnic materials will not be permitted to be stored on-site overnight and must be delivered, secured, and monitored by the display vendor on an as-needed basis for each show day. Only the amount for each show shall be placed at the point of use inside the facility at a time. No other storage inside the facility is allowed unless approved in advance on the application. Suitable secured safety containers are to be provided for all materials with sufficient staffing provided for all locations.

The pyrotechnics vendor applicant is required to hold a valid ATF license for any pyrotechnic display. The operator must be a current employee of the applicant. The vendor is required to provide all necessary safety equipment such as magazines, secured containers, and fire extinguishers to protect the materials while on site. A minimum of 2 ABC dry chemical and 2 water H20 extinguishers are required per event with additional provided as indicated on the application or as needed to cover remote staging areas, the pre-show preparation area, and the display site during the show. Failure to have properly tagged and charged units for the event will void the approved application. The University does not provide fire extinguishers for vendor use. Unauthorized relocation or tampering with the building units is a felony.

Where a fire watch is required a minimum of 1 independent person with adequate training in pyrotechnics oversight and emergency communications means shall be provided and pre-approved by the EHS and or State Fire Marshal. The pyrotechnics fire watch personnel’s only duty is to oversee the pyrotechnics display and watch for fire or other emergencies that could result in harm to persons or property damage. Shows with multiple effect control points will require additional fire watch staff to be indicated at the time of permit approval. The fire watch person will ensure that the effects are brought in, arranged, set up, and discharged safely by the approved permit. The fire watch person shall have the authority to instruct the pyrotechnics vendor to modify or cease use of the effects if they determine a hazard exists. Failure of the vendor’s representative to comply with fire watch personnel’s request may result in disapproval of future permits. The fire watch person shall have the authority to initiate building evacuation. The fire watch person should also be familiar with the facility, the location of the fire alarm system panel and controls, the location of fire extinguishers, and have means of contacting emergency forces. All costs associated with fire watch expenses are to be the responsibility of the facility management, sponsoring department, or venue. Potential fire watch candidates are to contact and submit a list of qualifications for review in advance of the event.

Indoor displays will often require temporary modification to the building detection and alarm systems. When this is necessary a fire alarm trained technician will be required to be on standby at the fire alarm panel to oversee its operation and return it to normal when the show is completed. Physical Plant (PP) or a contracted fire alarm vendor as designated by them is typically employed for this service. Requests for PP service need to be filed 10 days in advance. A fire watch (above) is also required. All costs associated with these services are to be included in the event.

Tents and Temporary Structures


Resources

Tents and temporary structures are considered for a permit on a case-by-case basis. All requesters planning to erect a tent or temporary structure on university properties shall adhere to this guideline, and apply for a Tent and Temporary Structure Permit through the Environmental Health and Safety Building Code Office. This review and permit process is intended for a temporary installation lasting less than 90 days. All others must go through the UCF Facilities Improvement and full UCF Building Code permit process.

Permit-exempted structures are not required to obtain a Tent and Temporary Structure Permit, but must still comply with all university rules and standards, including but not limited to the requirements in this guideline and checklist, the SAFE Form process, the provisions for liability insurance, and be subject to a safety inspection at any time. All structures must be supported by tie-down means that do not require staking. Ground penetrations by anchors, stakes, and digging are strictly prohibited.

Exempt Temporary Structures are items such as:

  • an inflated amusement-type bounce house or a similar amusement attraction
  • a climbing wall
  • a single canopy or tent erected by private persons not exceeding 120 square feet for personal use
  • a display booth or small stage
  • a structure, regardless of size, erected for external viewing purposes only (display only items)

When in question, the final interpretation of the application of this procedure to any structure is determined by the UCF Environmental Health and Safety Department.
The Tent and Temporary Structure Permit request must be submitted a minimum of five (5) business days in advance of the event with all required attachments.

These attachments shall include the following:

  • Certificate of Liability Insurance
  • Flame Spread Certificate
  • Site Plan
  • Egress Plan
  • Seating Plan, (where applicable)
  • Services, Equipment, and Utilities Plan, (where applicable)*
  • Details on manufacture-approved alternative methods of structural member connections where original equipment is not supplied
  • Details on ground support methods: All tents and temporary structures must be supported by alternative anchoring and support methods that do not require staking. Ground penetrations by anchors, stakes, and digging are strictly prohibited

*There is no fee for the permit application through temporary utilities associated with the temporary structure may have installation and inspection costs. A Facilities Operations work order with a billable account number or direct billing information must be filed to request connection to temporary utilities. The event will be charged for excess refuse and or damages to university properties arising from the event or the delivery, installation, and removal of the structure.

The Environmental Health and Safety Department reserves the right to inspect any temporary structure on UCF properties including permit-exempted structures. Any structure found to pose a risk to health or safety, placed without a permit, or installed with a questionable structural assembly will be denied occupancy and removed.

All structures subject to human occupancy shall be manufactured of materials with adequate fire resistance. Improvised tarp or plastic materials are not acceptable.

Overnight camping is not permitted within the areas bordered by Gemini Boulevard and the east property lines of East Greek Park Drive facilities. Additional site use limitations are listed in the minimum requirements below.

All permits for tents and temporary structures are conditional upon safe weather. Where inclement weather occurs after a permit is obtained and before set-up, the permit is voided unless the site is verified to be safe for use. Where unsafe conditions develop during use it shall be the responsibility of the requester and event manager to monitor the site and suspend activities until the structure is again safe to occupy.

Please see the Facilities and Safety Tent and Temporary Structure Permit Procedure for more information.

Applications will be reviewed by the Environmental Health and Safety Department, and the permit will be issued upon verification of compliance. All sites are subject to inspection at any time. If a pre-event inspection is also required it will be noted on the permit application and an appointment made with the Vendor/Requester. All structures may be subject to a safety inspection at any time.
Minimum requirements and guidelines to be considered in addition to the permit are as follows:

  • Non-university organizations must provide with their application a certificate of insurance provided by a company licensed to do business in the State of Florida, indemnifying and holding harmless the university, the Board of Trustees, and the Florida Board of Governors, and their officers and employees, from any and all liability, whatever its nature or description, caused by or resulting from the use or proposed use of the university facilities, in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. The applicant must provide with the application a certificate of insurance showing the Board of Trustees as an additional insured.
  • All temporary structures including permit-exempted temporary structures are subjected to additional permits and approvals as applicable. These may include but are not limited to Facilities Operations Work Control Work Orders, SAFE forms, local building coordinators, Recreation and Wellness administration, the Student Union, Arena, and Landscape and Natural Resources. Requests for the Lake Claire recreation area and all RWC facilities and the Union patio require a reservation.
  • Tents and canopies must be erected by manufacturer recommendations, industry standards, and code requirements. An improvised joint connection such as duct tape will not be permitted.
  • All structures intended for human occupancy must be fire-resistant.
  • All structures must be of sound construction. Methods of securing the structure against winds and fallovers are required.
  • All tents and temporary structures must be supported by alternative anchoring and support methods that do not require staking. Ground penetrations by anchors, stakes, and digging are strictly prohibited.
  • Requests for temporary structures in the Memory Mall area shall be limited to a 48-hour maximum duration. Tents with bottoms, camping, and overnight habitation are not permitted on Memory Mall.
  • The Memory Mall area is not available for any temporary structure requests for the seven (7) days following a UCF home football game.
  • The Memory Mall area is not available for use for placement of amusement rides or heavy concentrated loads.
  • Any organization employing the use of a vehicle, including tent delivery vehicles, will be held liable for repair costs for any damages done to the Mall or any other landscaped area.
  • Many sidewalks on campus are fire lanes and cannot be blocked. Be sure to clearly indicate the location of your proposed structure on your site plan or aerial away from major sidewalks, service driveways, service parking, gates, or similar. Applications lacking sufficient location details will be denied.
  • Do not set up in proximity to hydrants or fire department connections, any utility connection, or any area requiring maintenance access.
  • A minimum of 50 feet of clearance is required from any adjacent building exit and a minimum of 20 feet from the building itself. Requests for closer proximate set-ups will require the approval of the local building coordinator.
  • A minimum of 10 feet is required to adjacent temporary structures. This dimension may be increased or decreased as determined by a review of the structures and site layout.
  • All fabric coverings, barriers, and enclosures shall be flame resistant as meeting the applicable requirements of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code or NFPA 701. A certificate of flame resistance or copy of independent testing results from a nationally recognized testing lab shall be provided for all installations. Applied aftermarket fire retardants will be considered where appropriate for the material to be protected.
  • The grounds beneath and around the temporary structure shall be free of large accumulations of dry vegetation or combustible materials.
  • Flammable or combustible materials and decorations shall not be stored or placed in or near the site while it is available for public use.
  • Combustible construction and scenery for effects must be provided with fire retardant treatments.
  • No smoking, open flame, fuel-fired grill, fryer, tiki, candle, or other device emitting fire or flame or producing grease-laden vapors shall be used in or immediately adjacent to a temporary structure for a minimum of 10’. Cooking is not permitted in or under the structure. Food warming trays utilizing single gel fuel type cans are permitted but must be protected and attended at all times with a fire extinguishing device present.
  • Fuel-fired equipment such as generators supporting the event must be located a minimum of 10’ from the temporary structure with adequate barriers from guest access. All equipment must be listed for the application. Improvised electrical charging methods are not allowed.
  • Fireworks are not permitted on campus except by separate permits to authorized pyrotechnic vendors.
  • All temporary structures with special contents or activities such as cooking shall have access to a portable fire extinguisher within a maximum 75’ travel distance. The fire extinguisher arrangements should be made with the vendor supplying the temporary structure, to include what is commonly called a “fire package”, or to obtain a fire extinguisher from a local vendor. Limited numbers of extinguishers are available for checkout form the Office of Environmental Health and Safety with advance notice.
  • Temporary structures shall be set on level, stable ground with adequate drainage, and areas open for public access shall be free of trip hazards. A dedicated pedestrian path shall be provided to the public way for free egress.
  • Structures enclosed in whole or part shall be provided with adequate egress, depending on the size and arrangement of the enclosure. Generally, at least 2 remotely located means of egress are required, with additional openings added contingent on occupant load and the area enclosed. A detailed layout to scale is required for permit review, and you will be advised of any required adjustments to the egress provided.
  • All structures are to be arranged to provide clear and obvious egress under all conditions. There shall be a minimum of 10 ft between stake/weight lines. Adjacent temporary structures shall be spaced to provide clear egress around the perimeter as needed. Indicate stake lines on the site diagram.
  • Site fencing where applicable shall also be arranged with adequate egress openings and reflected on the site plan.
  • Exit openings shall be identified. In vendor-supplied tents, exit signs can be included in the “fire package”. Alternative identification methods may be specified on the site plan.
  • Means of emergency announcement shall be provided for any temporary structure with an occupant load exceeding 300.
  • Emergency lighting shall be provided for any temporary structure exceeding 1200 sq. ft., and when deemed appropriate for the planned event as indicated in the permit review.
  • Electrical installations shall meet the requirements of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code.
  • Temporary connection to university utilities beyond a standard plug to an existing receptacle requires coordination with Facilities Operations with a work order request or coordination with the designated building’s maintenance staff for facilities not covered by FO.
  • Extension cords are not permitted to be run through openings into adjacent facilities. Connection to adjacent facilities may require the approval of the local building coordinator.
  • All cords subject to pedestrian traffic must be protected and secured to prevent trip hazards.
  • Cords may not be run across vehicular pathways or obstruct means of egress.
  • Heaters are not recommended for use in temporary structures. UL-labeled heaters will be considered with adequate justification and proof of proper wiring and protection.
  • Fog machines are not approved for use in enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation.
  • All events must coordinate with Facilities Operations to provide adequate waste management for the event. Work requests should be filed in advance to request receptacles. Excessive waste left behind will result in charges to the requesting organization.
  • Work requests should also be filed when irrigation timing needs to be modified.