(A) All decorative material shall be noncombustible, inherently flame resistant, or treated and maintained flame resistant when tested.
(B) The use of pyrotechnics in the performing arts in conjunction with theatrical, musical or similar productions before an audience, performers or support personnel shall follow all state building codes and NFPA Standards, as referenced in Appendix B, Attachment G following this chapter.
(C) Natural cut Christmas trees shall be treated and maintained flame resistant throughout their use. Exception: Christmas trees located in areas protected by approved automatic sprinkler system.
(D) Live Christmas trees with their roots protected by an earth ball may be permitted, provided they are maintained in a fresh condition and are not allowed to become dry.
(E) Artificial Christmas trees shall be labeled or otherwise identified or certified by the manufacturer as being “flame retardant” or “flame resistant.”
(F) Only UL listed electrical lights and wiring shall be used on Christmas trees and similar decorations.
(G) Electrical lights are prohibited on metal artificial Christmas trees.
(H) Open flames shall not be located on or within the height of the Christmas tree or other similar combustible materials.
(I) Natural cut Christmas trees shall not be located near heating vents or other fixed or portable heating devices that could cause the tree to dry out or to be ignited.
(J) When installing cut Christmas trees indoors, the tree shall have the bottom end of the trunk cut off at least one inch above the end to help the tree absorb water. The tree shall be placed in a suitable stand with adequate water. The water level shall be checked and maintained on a daily basis. The tree shall be removed from the building immediately upon evidence of dryness.
(K) Cotton cannot be used as decorative material. A cotton substitute, magic glass or similar product, which is fire retardant, may be used.
(L) Decorations cannot block passageways, exits or fire protection equipment. If in doubt about where one can and cannot place decorations, contact the Fire Marshal’s office at 704-736-8516.
(M) Door decorations shall not exceed 50% of the door space. Use only non-combustible or flame retardant materials.
(N) Do not cover any corridor wall with decoration that would exceed 25% of the wall space. Noncombustible or flame retardant materials shall be used. Nothing shall be used that can be an obstruction.
(O) Facilities shall have written certification that items were treated to make them fire retardant.
(P) Candle safety.
(1) Candles must never be used on a tree or place near an evergreen tree.
(2) Candles are to be mounted in a secure and non-flammable base that will not tip over.
(3) Adequate safeguards are to be provided to avoid danger or ignition of combustible materials or injury to occupants.
(4) Candles shall not be left unattended or where small children can reach them.
(5) Any and all live vegetation used shall be of flame resistant materials or shall be rendered flame resistant by treating with a fire retardant coating and maintained flame resistant.
(6) Candles shall not block or impede exit widths.
(7) Immediately upon completion of the service all flames shall be properly extinguished.
(8) Permits are required for use of candles in public places. Churches are exempt. All others contact the Fire Marshal’s office for the permits.
(Q) The above guidelines shall also apply to scenery used in all stage productions.
(Ord. O-02-08, passed 6-5-2008) Penalty, see § 151.999
Cross-reference:
Use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience, see Ch. 151, Appendix B, Attachment G