Tents and Membrane Structures

Tents and Canopies are regulated by Chapter 31 of the 2014 Indiana Fire Code. State codes apply for tents and membrane structures in excess of 400 square feet (20x20) OR when the aggregate area of smaller tents exceeds 400 square feet. Tents an membrane structures subject to Indiana Fire Code regulations must be inspected by the Zionsville Fire Department and, in some cases, the State Fire Marshal prior to opening to the public.  

Below are common requirements for most tents, canopies and similar membrane structures. Additional requirements may apply when cooking, vehicles, heating or large crowds are involved. For any unusual situations or those not covered below, please contact the Zionsville Fire Department prior to the event.  

Tent Requirements

• Temporary tents can only be erected for 30 days or less in a calendar year. The State of Indiana must approve any longer durations through their variance process.
• When tents will have an occupant load of 50 or more, the following must be provided to the fire department PRIOR to inspection and opening to the public:
  • Site plan
  • Floor plan, including exit routes, seating arrangement and heating and electrical equipment
• In general, tents must have at least 10 feet of separation from other structures, property lines and vehicle parking. The distance can be more or less based on size and use of the tent, and will be evaluated from information provided ahead of the inspection to the fire department and during site inspections.
• Required exits must remain open. Contact the Fire department for guidance if you have special needs for exit management.
• For occupant loads of 50 or more, exit signage and illumination is required and both must have backup power. These must identify exits and provide enough light for navigation to the exits. Professional tent installers will be able to provide com-pliant exit signage and lighting.
• Tent and canopy fabric must have an attached fire treatment tag OR matching paperwork indicating compliance with NFPA 701 (California 701 is acceptable) or ASTM E-84.
• No smoking is allowed in tents and “No Smoking” signs must be conspicuously posted.
• Fireworks are not allowed within 100 feet of tents or membrane structures.
• Use of flames or cooking that produces grease or sparks is prohibited under tents. There are provisions for tents 400 square feet or less in size and separated from other structures. Contact the Fire Department for additional guidance.
• Cooking tents MUST have a current certified fire extinguisher, appropriate for the type of cooking taking place. Contact the Fire Department for additional guidance.
• LP Gas containers must be at least 10 feet away from tents and ignition sources and secured from tipping over.
• Generators must be at least 20 feet away from tents.
• Tents must be properly anchored. Staking is generally the only safe way to anchor a tent larger than 400 square feet, as weights are easily moved by the force of strong winds.

Small Pop-Up Tents at Fairs, Festivals and Markets

10x10 canopies and similar sized tents are generally exempt from fire code compliance. However, at events open to the public where the aggregate area of canopies exceeds 400 square feet, your canopy must meet the State fire codes listed above.  

10x10 tents, unlike larger tents, can be effectively anchored with a minimum of 40 pounds of weight per leg. Attach the weights with a sturdy strap or rope to the frame of the canopy in a manner to limit movement of the support legs.  

Our street vendors use a variety of methods to weight down their canopies. 5 gallon buckets with sand or other material are one of the more popular and effective methods used.