Special Events Temporary Tents

Temporary tent/canopy permits are required for special events in Pasadena.  These applications are processed in the Permit Center and are subject to Current Planning Section and Fire Safety Division approval.

The zoning of the property, size of the tent, and intended use of the tent will determine whether application for a Temporary Conditional Use Permit (TCUP) will be required by the Zoning Code. You can obtain information regarding tent permits by calling a planner in the Current Planning Office at (626) 744-6777.

The following Zoning Code Sections cover specific information regarding tents and associated temporary uses:

• Single Family Residential (RS) Zoning District - Section 17.20.020 (Temporary Uses)
• Central District (CD) Zoning - Section 17.33.040 (Temporary Uses)
• Multifamily Residential (RM) Zoning District - Section 17.24.020 (Temporary Uses)
• Planned Development (PD) Zoning District - Appendix B of Zoning Code
• Commercial (CL, CG, COR) Zoning District - Section 17.28.020 (Temporary Uses)
• Industrial (IG) Zoning District - Section 17.32.020 (Temporary Uses)
• Public/ Semi-Public (PS) Zoning District - Section 17.40.030 (Temporary Uses) or refer to adopted Master Development Plan
• Open Space (OS) Zoning District - including Brookside Park and Rose Bowl - Section 17.36.030 (Temporary Uses) or refer to adopted Master Development Plan

The applicant must provide plans showing proposed locations, tent layout, number and size of exiting and fire prevention measures in compliance with the requirements of the Fire Department. You can obtain information regarding tent permits by calling Fire Department at (626)744-4668.

The following information and notes shall be on the plans and field verified by Fire Department Inspector:
 

1. All installation shall be subject to the field approval of the Fire Inspector. Any additional requirements and/or modifications to the items below deemed necessary by the Fire Inspector shall be complied with.
2. All tents/canopies/membrane structures are required to comply with the provisions of the Uniform Fire Code and Pasadena Fire Department Specification #9.
3. Any temporary electrical devices required for the installation are required to have appropriate permits issued by the Permit Center. This includes portable generators, outlets, lighting, etc. 
4. Emergency Fire Department access, vehicle and/or pedestrian, is required to be maintained at all times. this shall be subject to the field approval of the Fire Inspector.
5. Maximum Occupant Load shall be posted and subject to Fire Inspector's approval.
6. Exit requirements shall be clearly indicated on the plans and subject to the Fire Inspector's approval.
7. Fire extinguisher(s) shall be clearly indicated on the plans and subject to the Fire Inspector's approval.
8. All exits, aisles and/or exit pathways shall remain clear and unobstructed at all times.
9. Exit signage and pathway illumination shall be provided in compliance with the provisions of the UFC and subject to the field approval of the Fire Inspector.
10. Approved "NO SMOKING" signage shall be provided in compliance with the provisions of the UFC and PMC 8.78.
11. All trash shall be contained in approved receptacles and located outside and away from the tent.
12. Ramp and secure all electrical cables and/or electrical wiring.
13. The requirement for standby Fire Department personnel shall be subject to the decision of the Fire Inspector.
14. A copy of the permit, permit application, plot plan indicating the location of the proposed installation and this correction sheet are required to be on site at the time of the Fire Department field inspection.