Temporary Tents

Complete applications for a temporary tent must include:

• applicable law approval documentation when required
• completed application package
• building permit fees
• building application plot plan
• plans and anchorage details

The information provided should be used as a sample only to help you with creating your application.

Before you start

A permit to erect a tent is required when:

• the area of the tent is greater than 60m2,
• the aggregate area of all tents in a group is greater than 60m2,
• the tent is attached to a building or;
• the tent is to be erected less than 3m from other structures

A permit to erect a tent and design by a qualified and registered designer is required when:

• the area of the tent is greater than 225m2 (design and general review by a professional engineer is required for the anchorage and structural system of all tents greater than 225m2),
• the tent contains bleachers or;
• the tent is enclosed with sidewalls

Please note that prior to applying for a building permit, it is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary approvals or permits have been obtained from other agencies for any Applicable Law identified in the Ontario Building Code that is relevant to your project.  These approvals are required as part of a complete building permit application package.

Applying for a permit

Please complete Application to Construct or Demolish form and make sure to include a Plot Plan with your submission. We will need the owner's authorization if you are not the property owner.

A Schedule 1: Designer Information Form or a Commitment to General Review Form is required to be filled out for all submissions.

Apply online

You will need to create an account to apply through our online portal. Be sure to have all you documents ready to attach.

Required design documents

Typically requirements are listed below, additional information may be required.

Your plot plan should include:

• Lot lines including dimensions
• Measurements for the distance from the tent  dimensioned to other buildings, enclosure and lot lines
• Lot area, tent building area, and area of all other structures
• Location of overhead electrical conductors (if applicable)
• North arrow and Municipal address

Your plan and anchorage details should include:

• Tent fabric to comply with CAN/ULC-S109 or NFPA 701
• Minimum headroom clearance at doors
• Anchorage details

Required Inspections:

• Prior to occupancy.

Depending on what you are proposing to use the tent for you may also require inspections from the following agencies:

• Belleville Fire Prevention

• Responsible for inspection with respect to fire safety & cooking appliances.

• Electrical Safety Authority

• Responsible for inspection when any temporary electrical power or supply is used.

• Technical Standards and Safety Authority

• Responsible for inspection when propane or other hydrocarbon fuel is used for cooking or any other purpose.

Any proposed changes from the approved plans must be approved by a Building Inspector prior to occupancy.

Fees

Fees are based on our Building By-Law.

Printable Information Guide

Temporary Tent Information Guide