§ 38-46. Tents.

(a)

Definition. A "tent" shall mean a shelter or structure of canvas or the like, supported by poles and fastened by guys, cords to anchors in the ground.

(b)

Location.

(1)

No tent or tents shall be erected within the city without the approval of the chief of the fire department, chief of the fire prevention bureau and the building inspector.

(2)

No tent or tents shall be erected to cover more than 75 percent of the premises, nor shall any tent be erected closer than ten feet to other structures. Stake lines of adjacent tents shall be sufficiently distant from each other to provide an area to be used as a means of emergency egress.

(c)

To conform to recognized good practices. The design, construction, flame-proofing, location, maintenance and use of tents, unless herein otherwise specified, shall be in accordance with nationally recognized good practices.

(d)

Fire hazards.

(1)

The ground enclosed by any tent used in connection with a place of outdoor assembly, and for a reasonable distance, but not less than ten feet outside of such structure or structures, shall be cleared of all flammable material or vegetation which will carry fire. This work shall be accomplished to the satisfaction of the inspecting authority prior to the erection of such structure or structures. The premises shall be kept free from all such flammable materials during the period for which the premises are used by the public.

(2)

No hay, straw, shavings or similar combustible material other than that necessary for the current feeding and care of animals shall be permitted within any tent used for public assembly, except that sawdust may be used if kept damp.

(3)

No smoking, fireworks or unapproved open flames of any kind shall be permitted in any tent while occupied by the public. "No Smoking" signs shall be conspicuously posted in any tent open to the public.

(4)

Tents shall not be used for the display of motion pictures, unless safety film is used.

(e)

Fire protection equipment. Fire extinguishing equipment of approved types shall be furnished in such amount and in such locations as may be directed by the fire chief or the fire marshal. Such fire extinguishing equipment shall be kept in approved working condition at all times.

(Ord. No. 3707-03, § 9, 11-24-2003)