UNDERSTANDING CAL FIRE’S FABRIC CERTIFICATION PROCESS: A Key Component of Permitting Tents, Canopies, and Structures in California
If you have ever been under a tent, canopy, or structure while attending an event you might have looked up and noticed a label that sewn into the vinyl fabric. If you were to look closer at this label, you would notice quite a bit of technical language and some alpha-numeric codes. That label is the reason you can occupy the very tent that it has been affixed to. That label is the proof that the fabric that is above your head has been treated and tested to confirm that it is flame resistant material through an inspection by a trained fire marshal who issued a permit for the tent or canopy to be occupied.
In California, the permitting process for temporary membrane structures—commonly referred to as tents and canopies—requires meticulous attention to fire safety standards. A critical part of this process involves fabric certification and registration managed by Cal Fire, the state’s authority for fire safety compliance. This step ensures that the materials used in temporary structures meet stringent fire-retardant standards set forth under Title 19 of the California State Fire Code.
WHAT IS CAL FIRE’S FABRIC CERTIFICATION PROCESS?
Cal Fire certifies and registers vinyl fabrics based on comprehensive testing conducted by manufacturers. These tests verify that the fabric has been treated to meet fire retardant standards. When the results prove compliance, the California State Fire Marshal issues a unique certification number. This number always begins with an “F” and is followed by six numerical digits, signifying the fabric’s registration.
Manufacturers are required to renew this registration annually to maintain the certification’s validity. This ongoing registration is essential, as local permitting agencies rely on it to confirm the fabric’s compliance during the permit review process.
THE ROLE OF FABRIC CERTIFICATION IN THE PERMITTING PROCESS
When a tent company applies for a permit to erect a temporary membrane structure, the local fire department (or another permitting authority) will verify the fabric’s certification number. Registration compliance is verified through the GovMotus database, a state-run system that tracks certified fabrics.
For approval, the fabric must:
1. The fabric as met the burn time requirements set for in the fire code
A)Fabric is required to be tested by just a handful of approved labs.
2. Have a valid, up-to-date registration number.
2. Fabric has been approved for exterior use, ensuring it meets the requirements for outdoor safety.
If the fabric meets these criteria, the permit application can move forward.
ONE-SITE INSPECTION AND REGISTRATION CERTIFICATION: The Proof is in the Label
Once the permit has been approved and the structure has been installed at the event site, the inspection process does not stop there. The inspecting fire marshal will verify that the fabric used on-site matches the certified fabric submitted on the permit application. This step ensures consistency and compliance, safeguarding public safety.
While fabric certification is a vital part of the permitting process, it’s just one of many factors considered by permitting agencies and on-site inspectors. Structural stability, site placement, anchoring, and exit accessibility are also assessed to ensure that the temporary structure complies with all safety regulations.
WHY FABRIC CERTIFICATION MATTERS
For tent companies, event organizers, and local municipalities, Cal Fire’s fabric certification process plays a crucial role in minimizing risks and ensuring public safety. By maintaining up-to-date fabric registrations and following established procedures, companies can streamline the permitting process and avoid delays or complications.
In California, the process of certifying, registering, and verifying fabrics used in temporary membrane structures is a testament to the state’s commitment to fire safety. By understanding and adhering to these requirements, tent companies and event organizers can ensure compliance, protect public safety, and contribute to the successful execution of events across the state.
Additional information regarding Title 19 and the state fire code regarding temporary membrane structures released by CAL FIRE can be downloaded HERE.
