Tents, canopies, and temporary membrane structures that are larger than 400 sq ft in area, or canopies that are larger than 1,000 sq ft in area require a permit for usage.  They are temporary, which means that they will be used less then 180 days within a 12 month period on a single location.  Structures whose dimensions are smaller than these limits do not require a permit.

A TENT is a temporary structure made of pliable material that is supported by any manner except by air or the materials that it protects.

A CANOPY is a temporary structure of pliable material supported by any manner except by air or the contents it protects, and is open without sidewalls or drops on 75% or more of the perimeter.

A TEMPORARY MEMBRANE STRUCTURE is an air inflated, air supported or cable frame-covered structure that is erected fro less than 180 days and not otherwise defined as a tent, canopy, or awning.

Aisle Width

Aisles must maintain a clear width of 44 inches where tables, counters, displays, or non-fixed seating is present on BOTH sides of the aisle.   Aisles must maintain a clear width of 36 inches where tables, counters, displays, or non-fixed seating is present on ONE side of the aisle.

Rubbish and Waste Disposal

Rubbish and waste in commercial occupancies must be removed nightly or kept in metal containers with metal lids in place.  Proper receptacles must also be provided for smoking materials if applicable.  Outside storage containers (dumpsters must be at least 5 feet from building entrances or combustible eaves.

Flammable Liquids Storage and Handling

How often do I have to have my business inspected?

The Marion Fire department Inspection Bureau makes every effort to get to your business every year.  Your business is inspected according to the type (s) of hazard (s) that are present.

Businesses that are classified as high Hazards are inspected yearly. Examples  are but not limited to: Places of Assembly, Special License, Sprinkler systems, Commercial Cooking Hood Systems and City owned buildings.

Businesses that are classified as moderate hazards are inspected every two years. Examples are but not limited to: Hazardous Materials storage, use and dispensing, Schools, Mini Malls and Lumber yards.

Effective July 1, 2002

1. Regular inspections, as set forth in the Plan of Inspection, including one re-inspection and one "no show": $40.00 for inspection of the exterior structure, common areas, basement, attic and one living unit plus $10.00 for each additional dwelling unit.
2. Complaint inspections - $30.00 complaint inspection and recheck, if a violation of the Housing Code is found; no fee if no violation of the Housing Code is found.
3. Reinspection - A fee will be charged for each scheduled reinspection following the initial reinspection.
4. "No Shows" (scheduled inspections in which the owner, operator, agent, tenant or other representative of the owner is not present to permit the inspector entrance to the premises or any inspection that is rescheduled with less than 2 hours advance notice.) A fee will be charged for each scheduled inspection listed as a "no show".

   The fee for reinspections and "no shows" is based on the number of rechecks and/or "no shows" as depicted in the following chart:

   Initial reinspection and one no show	Included in Base Fee
   Second reinspection/no show	$15.00
   Third reinspection/no show	$30.00
   Fourth reinspection/no show	$45.00
   Fifth reinspection/no show	$60.00
   Sixth or more reinspection/no show	$75.00

If you have any questions concerning inspections and/or the fee schedule, please feel free to contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 377-8237 or fire@cityofmarion.org  Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.