A tent permit and inspection is required for all event tents larger than 400 sq. ft. some dome style tents when they are near each other and the combined square footage exceeds 400 sq. ft. A single 400 sq. ft. tent accommodates a party of about 35 - 50 people.
A tent permit allows for safe party and event spaces, inspected by the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department. A tent permit will allow you to safely support outdoor events like weddings, graduation or retirement parties, block parties, and more!
Get Ready
Event organizers only need to submit one tent permit application per event. The application must be submitted at least 5 days before the necessary inspection.
Download the Tent Permit Application
Tent Separation Requirements
Tents or membrane structures must be at least 20 feet from lot lines, buildings, other tents, parked vehicles, or internal combustion engines. If the tent area is less that 10,000 sq. ft. and there are proper means of egress for both the building and the tent, this distance may be safely reduced.
Note: Non-cooking tents do not need to be separated from each other as long as the total area is under 15,000 sq. ft.
Dining Domes
When multiple domes are placed close together (less than 12 ft. apart) they must be counted together when calculating square footage. A permit is required if a single dome, or the combination of domes is above 400 sq. ft.
Fees
- Inspection fees $153
- Site Plan Review - $78
- First Tent - $75
- Additional Tents - $25 ea.
- State of Ohio Surcharge
3% for commercial occupancy
1% for residential occupancy.
Review Process and Timeline
Site and floor plans must be submitted along with the Tent Permit Application.
Site Plan Review
- All tents on site
- Tent dimensions
- Distance between tents, other structures, lot lines, and parking
- Generators, heaters, open flames
Floor Plan Review
- Egresses
- Seating
- Serving tables
- Buffet
- Bar
- Stage/dance floor
- Lighting
Inspection
- Tent(s) must be fully set up per the submitted plans at time of inspection, or you may have to pay a re-inspection fee.
- The City of Toledo follows the rules and regulations set by the Ohio Fire Code Chapter 1301:7
Submit Application, Pay Fees, and Schedule Inspection
Submit complete application to tfrdtent@toledo.oh.gov
You will receive information about how to pay the fees and schedule the inspection once we receive the application.
FAQ
Q: What safety standards must tents meet?
Tents must comply with the Ohio Fire Code and include:
- Flame-retardant materials and proper labeling
- No smoking, open flames, or unapproved cooking inside or newar tents
- Safe storage of LP-gas, flammable liquids, and generators outside the tent
- Proper setup to maintain 3-foot clearance around contents
- Removal of combustible vegetation and waste within 30 feet
Q: Are there requirements for cooking and heating in tents?
Yes. Cookikng tents must be at least 20 feet from other tents. All heating and cooking equipment must meet the Ohio Fire Code and mechanical standards. Outdoor cooking that produces sparks or grease-laden vapors must be at least 20 feet from tents
Q: Are vehicles allowed in tents?
Yes. With restrictions:
- Fuel tanks limited to 5 gallons or 25% capacity – whichever is less
- Battery is disconnected
- Cannot block exits
- No refueling inside tents
Q: Do I need staff for fire safety or crowd management?
Large events may require qualified personnel to monitor fire safety. If required, it would be 1 crowd manager per 250 guests.