FLAME RETARDANT FABRICS: Permit Processing and Approvals
LABELS AND CERTIFICATES
Flame retardant fabrics must be certified by CAL FIRE and properly labeled to pass a fire inspection.
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. A tent will receive approval for use when the vinyl contains proper labeling with a valid license number. Correct labeling confirms that the flame retardant fabrics have been properly tested. At the end of the day, the process is to keep the public safe.
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 must to renew their license for flame retardant fabrics annually. This ongoing registration is essential, as local permitting agencies rely on it to confirm the fabric’s compliance during the permit review process.
CERTIFICATE VALIDATION
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)Proper testing by one of the 5 trusted labs
2. Have a valid, up-to-date registration number.
2. Fabric for exterior use and meets outdoor safety requirements.
If the fabric meets these criteria, the permit application can move forward.
ONE-SITE INSPECTION AND REGISTRATION CERTIFICATION: The Proof is in the Label
Completing the plan review, the inspector will perform an in-person inspection. This is the final part of the permitting process and typically the most nerve-wracking. The inspecting fire marshal will verify that the fabric used on-site matches what is on the application. This step ensures consistency and compliance, safeguarding public safety.
Fire marshals across are taking more time to confirm flame retardant fabrics are current. With improvements in the Cal Fire database, access to the information is easy and fast. The vinyl certification is a part of larger approval process. Structural stability, site placement, anchoring, electrical cabling, extinguisher placement and fire egress are also assessed on site. The fire marshal is seeking compliance with the final set up. That compliance falls on the tent company.
Once the fire marshal is satisfied with the work by the tenting install team and they feel that the tent complies with the code, they will permit the tent for use. This is always a great feeling and a relief. Inspection approval signals to the team that they have done a great job. By understanding the fire code and knowing how to apply it is very rewarding. Safety very important at Made in the Shade. The role of the fire marshal is to ensure that the a large tent is safe to occupy.
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. Ensuring that the labels on the vinyl inventory is current and up-to-date, companies avoid unnecessary delays or complications raised by a fire marshal.
In California, the process of certifying, registering, and verifying fabrics is to assure safety to the general public. Tent companies and event organizers can ensure compliance by understanding the code.
Download additional information about temporary membrane structures and the state fire code/Title 19 HERE. (CAL FIRE)
