More Information

International Building Code and International Fire Code govern requirements related to the use of tent and canopy structures. Read this section carefully if you will be using tents or canopies for your event.

What is a canopy and when does it require a permit? 
A canopy is a membrane structure that is completely open on all sides and there is NO ability to raise/lower any side to enclose or partially enclose it. A canopy permit is required for canopy structures greater than 700 square feet.

What is a tent and when does it require a permit? 
A tent is a membrane structure that has one or more sides that enclose or partially enclose the space; or, has sides that can be raised/lowered. A tent permit is required for tents greater than 400 square feet.

What is a “pop-up” and when can they be used without a permit? 
A “pop-up” is generally a 10x10 foot canopy (see definition above) which can be used during events without the need for an additional permit under the following condition(s):

• Twelve (12) feet separation is maintained between pop-ups and other temporary or fixed structures.
• Groups of pop-ups do not exceed 700 square feet in total.
• Groups of pop-ups are separated from other groups of pop-ups and/or temporary or fixed structures by at least twelve (12) feet. 

TENTS/CANOPY PERMITS:
Submission of Engineering Specifications is required for canopies greater than 700 square feet or tents greater than 400 square feet.  Tent vendors will be familiar with these requirements and must include detailed drawings with the following details: 

• Anchorage details Bracing and construction details
• Engineering calculations to show compliance with currently adopted International Building and Fire Code and amendments
• Drawings must be sealed by an Arizona registrant (Engineer)

Contractors must be reported on the Vendor/Contractor list see the Document Center.

All events, regardless of type or location, must provide their own power.  Power options can include the use of power sources controlled by the property owner with appropriate permission or the use of generators.  Generators using 20 kilowatts of power or more must be installed by a licensed Arizona electrical contractor and requires a separate permit.  Generator vendors typically apply for that permit separately, but you must show the location of the generator on your site plan.  

If the event is taking place on city property, the event producer must provide power with generator/s.

Contractors must be reported on the Vendor/Contractor list see the Document Center.

Stages and Platforms

Stages and platforms greater than 120 square feet and greater than 30 inches in height above grade require a permit.  Stage vendors will be familiar with these requirements, the submission must include detailed drawings with the following details:

• Anchorage details
• Bracing and construction details
• Engineering calculations to show compliance with currently adopted International Building and Fire Code and amendments
• Drawings must be sealed by an Arizona registrant (Engineer)

Contractors must be reported on the Vendor/Contractor list see the Document Center.

All events must have appropriate restroom facilities to accommodate their guests. The quantity of fixed or portable restroom facilities is dependent upon number of attendees, event duration, and food/beverage service. An internet search for “portable restroom calculator” can serve as a guide to aid in your planning process and a portable restroom vendor can help you plan accordingly. Your site plan must include information on how many restroom facilities you will have for your event.

Contractors must be reported on the Vendor/Contractor list see the Document Center on the previous page.

Security and First Aid/Medical Plan Requirements

Glendale city code chapter 29.2 requires that all events must be operated in a manner so as not to require the diversion of any amount of public safety personnel and resources that would impede normal and routine operations for public safety.  Event producers are responsible for providing appropriate crowd managers, security, and emergency medical services. 

The city may require the event be staffed with certified peace officers or emergency medical personnel based on certain conditions, including but not limited to:  Impacts to roadways, alcohol service, weather, geographic size and location of event, type of event, and number of anticipated attendees.  Event permits may be conditioned upon approval of such security and emergency medical services plans.

Options for providing the appropriate security and first aid/medical support staff include:

• Appropriate trained/credentialed volunteers
• Private providers (security, ambulance, or medical services companies)
• Use of off-duty public safety personnel