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Tent Permit Plans for Los Angeles (LAFD)
Planning a tented event in the City of Los Angeles? Here's what the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) typically asks for, and how we can help you get there faster.
Do I need a permit?
Tents in the City of LA need an LAFD Fire Prevention permit (LA Municipal Code 57.105.7.1.4). Most event tents need one. If you're unsure about a small canopy, check with LAFD.
What LAFD asks for
- Tent location, size and layout (a scaled site plan)
- Flame-resistant materials, with a California State Fire Marshal (CSFM) flame-resistance certificate kept on site
- Anchoring and structural support details
- Fire extinguishers and their spacing
- Occupant load and exits
Tents over 7,500 sq ft, more than one story, or holding more than 1,000 people also need an engineered wind and structural design (California Fire Code 3103.8). LAFD may inspect before and during the event.
Cooking under or near the tent
Cooking needs a separate LAFD Special Permit for Temporary Cooking, plus LA County Public Health approval.
How the process works
- Submit your plans to LAFD Fire Prevention (Public Assemblage Unit).
- After LAFD approves, LADBS issues a Temporary Special Event permit, filed at least 2 business days before the event (separate LADBS fee).
- Have your CSFM certificate on site and be ready for inspection.
How long does review take?
LAFD doesn't publish a set review time, so apply several weeks ahead. Fees follow LAFD's current fee schedule. Park venues may have extra requirements, such as no staking.
Code basis
2025 California Fire Code, Chapter 31 (Tents and Membrane Structures), as adopted in the Los Angeles Fire Code (LAMC Chapter 5, Article 7).
Source: LAFD Tent permits. Requirements can change, so confirm with LAFD before your event.