Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 1
OUTDOOR EVENTS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY DURING THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION IN
CHARLOTTE/MECKLENBURG COUNTY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Planning Outdoor Events on Private Property during
DNC
Pg. 2
2. Common Costs for Outdoor Events on Private Property
Pg. 3
4. Business Privilege License and Related Taxes
Pg. 4
6. Alcohol Permit Information
Pg. 5
8. Amusements
Pg. 6
10. Restroom Plan
Pg. 8
12. Permit Information for Temporary Structures
Pg. 13
3. Amplified Sound & Entertainment
Pg. 3
5. Prepared Food Sales
Pg. 4
7. Electrical Needs
Pg. 6
9. Solid Waste Collection & Removal
Pg. 6
11. Charlotte Fire Department Requirements
Pg. 8
13. Event Checklist
Pg. 13
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 2
PLANNING OUTDOOR EVENTS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY DURING THE DNC
Outdoor special events located on private property within the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County may
require a temporary permit(s). Examples where permits may be required include the erection of temporary
structures or tents.
Event planners requiring temporary permits should review this Planning Guide for Outdoor Events on Private
Property During the DNC and contact Charlotte Land Development Services at 704 336.6692. The following
agencies may be included in the review of your event plans:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Charlotte Department of Transportation
Charlotte Development Services Urban Team
Charlotte Fire Department
Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department
Charlotte Mecklenburg Utilities
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement
Mecklenburg County Health Department
Solid Waste Services
Zoning
Charlotte Land Development Services will coordinate an initial review with the above agencies. For subsequent
reviews, Event Planners will coordinate directly with an individual agency for approvals, and payment of any fees if
applicable. The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County’s review and approval process will be based upon
compliance with pertinent local ordinances and state statutes.
Please note:
1. Charlotte Land Development Services will be your primary point of contact to determine what, if any permits
are required. Feel free to call 704.336.6692 with questions regarding permitting DNC-related outdoor special
events on private property.
2. Prior to your initial review with Land Development:
a. You should have the explicit permission from the property owner to use the property; and
b. You should read this Planning Guide for Outdoor Events on Private Property During the DNC
3. Most reviews will be conducted within 15 business days.
4. It is your responsibility to request an initial a review no later than 30 days prior to a DNC-related event.
Approvals cannot be guaranteed if requested after that deadline.
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 3
COMMON COSTS FOR OUTDOOR EVENTS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
A good knowledge of the charges and fees you may be required to pay is very important to the financial success of your
event. This section will provide helpful information on the most common charges and fees that should be incorporated
into your event budget. All costs are the sole responsibility of the event organizer.
Permits and Licenses
The event organizer is responsible for acquiring all applicable permits and licenses from the city, county and state. Most
required permits have a fee-structure. The most frequently required permits and licenses are found in this planning
guide.
Trash Removal
The event organizer is responsible for the removal of all trash and recycling materials and complete clean-up of the
event site. Failure to return the site to its original condition may result in fines.
Equipment Rental
The event organizer will be required to rent equipment to support event operations that may include items such as
tents, generators, portable lighting, yellow-jackets, temporary fencing, portable restrooms and wash stations, stages and
sound amplification equipment, etc.
Crowd Control Devices
The event organizer is responsible for providing fencing, stanchions or any other crowd control devices required for an
event. Crowd control devices are subject to the approval of the City’s police, fire and transportation departments and
should be clearly labeled on an event site map.
Private Security
The event organizer is responsible for providing private security for the event site. All security plans must be reviewed
and approved by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
AMPLIFIED SOUND & ENTERTAINMENT
CMPD Field Services Division, (704) 432-0428
Sound magnified through any amplification device (speakers, microphone, bullhorn, etc.) is considered amplified sound
and is regulated through the City’s Noise Ordinance (Section 15-64). The Noise Ordinance outlines specific levels of
amplified sound allowed depending on the location and time of the event.
Events on private property must submit an application to the CMPD’s Field Services Division for an amplified sound
permit.
City/County Noise Ordinance Information and Amplified Sound Permit Applications
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 4
BUSINESS PRIVILEGE LICENSE AND RELATED TAXES
Mecklenburg County Business License Tax Office, (704) 336-6315
Business Privilege License
Event organizers may be required to obtain a Business Privilege License from Mecklenburg County Department of Tax
Collections. Additionally, each vendor that plans to sell food, beverages and/or merchandise must obtain a Business
Privilege License. You can apply through the mail or in person at the Business Privilege License counter in the Hal
Marshall Center located at 700 North Tryon Street. Prior to receiving the license, all applicants must complete an
application with an estimate of revenue generated from the event. Additionally, all Business Privilege License applicants
must meet all zoning requirements for approval of the license.
Business Privilege License Application
The most common license required for events is License #310 – Promotions, Exhibits or Shows
Event organizers must bring a list of all event vendors and include a contact name, address, phone number and items for
sale for each vendor.
Beer and Wine Sales License
If Beer and Wine will be sold at the event, the event organizer must also obtain the appropriate Beer and Wine Privilege
Licenses (#126 and #373 respectively) from the Business Privilege License Office. Event organizers must show a copy of
their NC ABC One-Time Alcohol Sales permit to receive this license.
Beer and Wine License Application and Instructions
Prepared Food and Beverage License
All food and beverage vendors must also register their prepared food and beverage revenue projections with the
Business Privilege License Office. This is to ensure collection of the 1% prepared food & beverage tax. At the completion
of the event, all food vendors must submit a tax return form to the Business Privilege License Office showing total food
and beverage sales.
Prepared Food and Beverage Tax Return Document
PREPARED FOOD SALES
Mecklenburg County Health Department, (704) 336-5524
In addition to the requirements outlined by the Business Privilege License Office, all food vendors must comply with
regulations determined by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Department of Environmental Health and the City of Charlotte
Fire Department. All food vendors will be inspected by the Mecklenburg County Health Department and the City Fire
Prevention Bureau prior to the event’s opening.
Temporary Event Organizer Application
If the event contains temporary food vending/preparation services, the Event Organizer is required to provide
information through the Temporary Event Organizer Application. All Temporary Food Service Facilities must operate in
conjunction with the event and be located within the event site. This application must be reviewed before
Environmental Health staff will issue a permit for operation of a temporary foodservice facility.
Temporary Food Establishment Organizer Application
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 5
Temporary Food Establishment Food Vendor Application
All Food Vendors operating in conjunction with the event must complete the attached Temporary Food Establishment
Food Vendor Application and return it to the Department of Environmental Health
Temporary Food Establishment Food Vendor Application
Please note:
1.
2.
3.
Event Organizer is responsible for collecting all TFE vendor applications & associated fees for submittal to department
in one complete packet. WE DO NOT ORGANIZE THE EVENT FOR THE PARTY IN CHARGE.
An appointment should be set up at least 2 weeks in advance of event date between organizer and Department official
in order to review TFE vendor applications for rule compliance.
NOTE: additional vendor applications cannot be accepted after this established date.
Charlotte Fire Department Regulations for Prepared Food Sites
• The Charlotte Fire Department will inspect every food vending site to ensure safety for the public and vendor.
• All tents used for cooking purposes, regardless of size, shall be flame retardant, properly ventilated, accessible
on all sides and separated from other tents by 20 feet.
• Cooking, warming devices, and/or heated products shall be isolated from the public by either placing the
cooking appliance a minimum of 4 feet from the public, or by providing a Plexiglas shield between the cooking
and/or warming appliances and the public.
• Combustible materials shall be kept a minimum of 3 feet away from any cooking area.
• Each cooking tent shall be equipped with a K type fire extinguisher. The extinguisher shall have a current
inspection tag, be located between the grill/fryer and exit and be easily accessible.
• All LP gas cylinders used for cooking fuel must be secured to prevent tipping. For events lasting more than one
day, all LP tanks shall be closed at the cylinder each night unless attended. Compressed gas cylinders may not be
changed while cooking is taking place.
ALCOHOL PERMIT INFORMATION
NC Alcohol and Beverage Commission, (919) 779-0700
Event organizers planning to sell beer or wine must apply directly to and receive a permit from the North Carolina
Alcohol Beverage Control Commission. If approval is granted for the sale, possession or consumption of beer or wine for
a special event, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department will require the event organizer to submit an alcohol
control plan to insure that the sale of alcohol to the public is done in a safe and legal manner.
The Event Site Map should identify each alcohol sales location and specify the type of alcohol available.
NC ABC Special One-Time Permit
The State of North Carolina Alcohol and Beverage Commission requires a Special One Time Event Sales permit. This
permit also requires approval by CMPD. For additional information, visit the State of NC website:
NC ABC Permit Information
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 6
ELECTRICAL NEEDS
All power requirements for the event must be provided by the event organizer.
General Guidelines for Generators
Generators and other internal combustion power sources shall be:
• placed on hardscape (pavement, asphalt, plywood)
• separated from tents or canopies by a minimum of 20 feet
• isolated from the public by fencing (bike racks) or other approved means
• grounding rods must be removed at the end of the permitted event
• grounding rods must not be placed in the cement, tree wells or any landscaped area
All electrical cords must be covered with medium duty cord covers such as Yellow Jacket® to ensure the safety of
pedestrians.
For additional information about requirements for the use of generators of diesel equipment please refer to the
Hazardous Materials (Use and Refueling of Gasoline or Diesel Equipment) in the Charlotte Fire Department Fire
Prevention Section.
AMUSEMENTS
Charlotte Fire Prevention Bureau (704) 336-2101
Amusements
The NC Department of Labor regulates the use of amusements including inflatables and carnival rides. Event organizers
planning to operate amusement devices are required to submit a Location Notice in writing to the bureau's Raleigh
office at least 10 days before the intended date of operation. Proof of insurance must also be submitted with the
location notice. The bureau will issue an installation permit, which must be posted on the job site. New installations, as
well as alterations to existing equipment, are inspected. For questions please call the NCDOL at (919) 807-2770
NCDOL Amusements Location Notice
SOLID WASTE COLLECTION & REMOVAL and WATER USAGE
City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services Department, (704) 336-6664
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities, 704-400-2844
All event organizers are required to provide waste removal services and must restore the event site to its original
condition following the conclusion of event activities. During the DNC event organizers may be required to contract
with an outside waste removal services provider.
Trash Removal
Events should provide routine trash removal services throughout the duration of the event. This includes the provision
of trash and recycling containers.
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 7
Recycled Materials
Event organizers are required to collect and properly dispose of the following recyclable materials: Aluminum/Steel,
Cardboard, Glass, and All Plastics except #6.
Food Vendors (Disposal of Oil, Grease & Ash)
Food vendors are required to make arrangements to dispose of any oil, grease and/or ash in a safe and legal manner.
The event organizer will be held financially responsible for any grease spills and stains on City streets and sidewalks. The
disposal of cooking oil and grease down City storm drains or in tree wells or flower beds is strictly prohibited.
Additional Requirements
• Due to the extensive clean-up required, the following items are not allowed for use in the event site: stickers or
decals (including those distributed to event patrons), streamers, confetti.
• No posters, handbills or similar printed material shall be attached to trees or any public property (light poles,
benches, news racks, etc.)
• No banners shall be attached to or strung between light poles, traffic poles, trees, etc.
Water Use & Discharge
Non-Potable and Potable Water
Non-Potable water can be used to fill barricades and tent weights. Event organizers must supply potable water for
drinking and cooking activities related to the event. For events in Center City, potable water may be available through
City-operated fire hydrants. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities Department can coordinate access to a potable water
supply. All locations needing potable water must be identified on the event site map.
Grey Water
Event organizers are responsible for the collection and proper disposal of grey water (water generated from hand
washing, dish washing, etc.). The pouring of grey water (including ice) down City storm water drains, in tree wells,
flower beds or any landscaped area is strictly prohibited.
Discharge of Waste or Wastewater into Permanent Infrastructure
Any need to discharge waste or wastewater into the permanent City sewer or wastewater infrastructure must be
coordinated through the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities Department. Associated permits and fees will apply.
If you are using a vendor other than the City’s Solid Waste Services Department, you must provide a copy of the
agreement between your organization and the agency providing the sanitation/recycling services. This agreement letter
cannot be a quote or a proposal and must include the following:
• Contact information: Name and number of person responsible during event for services
• Overview of services provided
• Number of staff provided by agency
• Number and size of trash and recycling receptacles provided by the agency
• Date trash & recycling will be removed from event location
• Types of recyclables that will be collected (aluminum, all plastics (except #6), cardboard)
• Description of the signage used to identify recycling bins and promote recycling
• For all events with food vendors, please address your plan to remove any oil, grease or ash generated
• Plan for restoration of the event area
If you are using volunteers for removal and restoration assistance, please provide a list of volunteers and scope of
responsibilities, plans for procurement of trash & recycling containers and plans for disposal. Please discuss this plan
with the City’s Solid Waste Services Department prior to your event.
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 8
RESTROOM PLAN
Event organizers are required to provide an adequate number of temporary toilets for event patrons. A percentage of
your restroom facilities must be American Disability Act (ADA) compliant and located in an unobstructed area. All
temporary restroom facilities must be clearly labeled on the event site plan.
• If alcoholic beverages are sold/available, add 40% from the base number required.
• 10% of all units must be ADA compliant. You must have a minimum of 1 ADA unit per portable toilet cluster
• Your site plan must indicate the location(s) and number of all restroom facilities
• For multi-day events, all portable restrooms must be maintained and restocked as needed
• The temporary restroom vendor is responsible for the collection and proper removal of grey water (from handwashing). The disposal of grey water down City storm water drains is prohibited.
• All portable restrooms must be removed at the end of permitted time. Failure to remove them by the end of
permitted time may result in significant penalties.
Average Crowd Size
500
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
10,000
12,500
15,000
17,500
20,000
1
2
3
2
4
5
6
8
12
12
12
12
15
18
20
22
25
4
6
6
9
13
15
15
18
20
25
31
38
44
50
4
8
9
12
16
20
23
26
30
38
47
56
66
75
Restroom Planning Matrix
Average Number of Hours at The Event
4
5
6
7
8
Approximate Number of Units Needed
5
6
7
9
9
8
9
9
11
12
12
14
16
18
20
16
20
24
26
30
22
25
30
35
40
25
31
38
44
50
30
38
45
53
60
35
44
53
61
70
40
50
60
70
80
50
63
75
88
100
63
78
94
109
125
75
94
113
131
150
88
109
131
153
175
100
125
150
175
200
9
10
10
13
23
34
45
56
68
79
90
113
141
169
197
225
12
13
25
38
50
63
75
88
100
125
156
188
219
250
CHARLOTTE FIRE DEPARTMENT
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES, FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY, PUBLIC SAFETY PLAN, SITE REQUIREMENTS
Charlotte Fire Prevention Bureau (704) 336-2101
Based on event size, it may be necessary for the event organizer to provide stand-by Advanced Life Support /
Ambulances and/or support for Emergency Management functions (shore power, personnel, etc.).
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 9
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Charlotte Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau, (704) 336-2101
Charlotte Fire Department Secondary Employment Coordinator, (704) 336-2101
Fire Official
In reference to the NC Fire Code, the City Fire Marshal or designated representative of the Charlotte Fire Prevention
Bureau shall have the ultimate authority for determining the Fire and EMS requirements necessary to ensure the safety
of the public at all public gatherings.
Place of Assembly Permit
Any building or area within a building accommodating more than 99 people, used for the purpose of gathering of
persons for entertaining, drinking, eating, social functions, etc., must meet the requirements of a Place of Assembly. All
Places of Assembly must prepare and post a Fire Evacuation Plan.
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
Built-in fire detection and alarm systems within Assembly Occupancies shall not be rendered inoperable without consent
of the Fire Official. When such systems are not capable of performing their intended function, alternate means shall be
required. Upon activation of a fire alarm system or notification by event or facility staff, all occupants are required to
evacuate the premises. Disabling, silencing, or resetting a fire alarm system without consent of the Fire Dept constitutes
a Life Safety Code violation.
Temporary Place of Assembly Permit
Outdoor locations where access or egress is controlled by means of doors, gates, or other restrictive measures must
obtain a Temporary Place of Assembly Permit. A maximum Occupant Load will be posted on the permit. Outdoor Events
with a projected attendance greater than 999 people must meet the Public Safety Plan requirements contained below.
Crowd Control Manager(s)
Events with greater than 1,000 attendees are required to comply with NC State Fire Code requirements for Crowd
Control Manager. The number of Crowd Control Managers is determined by a ratio of 1 to each 250 persons. The ratio
may be increased with consent of CFD based on additional attendee notification capability. All Crowd Managers shall be
familiar with the Public Safety Plan and shall assist in the Plan’s initiation and execution.
NCDOI Crowd Manager Training and Certification
Gated or Access Controlled Events
• All ‘gated’ (access controlled) events require a Temporary Place of Assembly Permit, with a posted Occupancy
Load, issued by the Charlotte Fire Prevention Bureau. Occupancy in excess of the posted Occupancy Load is
considered Overcrowding.
• For all ‘gated’ events, exit signs are required at all designated exits at a height of 10 ft. An Exit sign or directional
exit sign must be visible from any point within the gated area. If an Exit sign is not visible for any location, a
directional exit sign must be installed. Temporary lighting is required near each exit sign so that the exit sign may
be seen from a distance at night. All means of egress shall be fully accessible at all times.
Fire Lanes Required For Emergency Access
The City requires that a fire lane with a minimum width of 12’ be maintained through the event site for the passage of
emergency vehicles. In addition, all over-street banners or sign must be kept at a minimum height of 14’ to allow the
passage of emergency vehicles.
Emergency Services Support
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 10
When determined by CMPD or CFD to be necessary to effectively manage an event, a Mobile Command Post or Mobile
Operations Center may be required. If so required, the event organizer may be responsible for providing electrical
support for the MPC/MOC. Specialized staff may be required to operate the MOC/MCP or to provide assistance
managing the emergency service support of the event.
First Aid Stations
As determined by CFD, First Aid Stations must be staffed by persons intended to provide basic first aid or by Emergency
Medical Technicians (EMTs) or Paramedics. EMTs and Paramedics must be affiliated with an EMS provider approved by
the Charlotte FD. All First Aid Stations must have signage and if open past dusk, must have lighting. Sufficient quantities
of bottled water must be provided at First Aid Stations for the treatment of patients exhibiting heat-related illnesses.
Misting tents and fans may be required if high heat or humidity conditions are anticipated.
Definitions of First Aid Levels
Basic First Aid
Simple emergency medical care procedures intended for lay persons to perform before EMS professionals are available.
Basic Life Support (BLS)
Medical care provided by trained and certified EMS personnel, used for patients with potentially life threatening injuries
or illness. (EMT, Paramedics)
Advanced Life Support (ALS)
Medical care provided by per-hospital EMS personnel. (Paramedic)
The chart below is intended to serve as a guide for determining the elements required, based on the largest anticipated
attendance at any one time during the event. The requirements are subject to change pending review of your event
application by the Deputy Chief of the Charlotte Fire Department.
Expected # of
Participants (largest # at
any one time)
Provisions and
responsibility for
accessing 911
First Aid Station(s)
# To Be Determined by
CFD
EMS Bike Team(s)/Foot
Patrol(s),
(# To Be Determined on
a case-by-case basis)
Ambulance(s) /
Advanced Life Support
Unit
Crowd Control
Manager(s)
49 - 299
300 - 999
1,000 – 9,999
10,000 19,999
20,000 49,999
50,000 +
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes, Staffed by
Lay persons
providing
Basic First Aid
Yes, Staffed
by EMTs or
Paramedics
Yes, Staffed
by EMTs or
Paramedics
Yes, Staffed
by EMTs or
Paramedics
Yes, Staffed
by EMTs or
Paramedics
Yes, Staffed by
EMTs or
Paramedics
At discretion
of CFD
At discretion
of CFD
Yes (2 or more
teams)
Yes (2 or more
teams)
Yes (4 or
more teams)
Yes (4 or more
teams)
At discretion
of CFD
At discretion
of CFD
Identify Access
locations for
Emergency
Vehicles
Identify Access
locations for
Emergency
Vehicles
ALS Unit(s)
on Stand-by,
#TBD
ALS Unit(s) on
Stand-by, #TBD
N/A
Ratio of 1
crowd
manager to
each 250
persons **
Ratio of 1
crowd
manager to
each 250
persons **
Ratio of 1
crowd
manager to
each 250
persons **
Ratio of 1 crowd
manager to each
250 persons **
N/A
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 11
Emergency Services
Support: MCP / MOC
and Personnel, # To Be
Determined on a caseby-case basis
At discretion
of CFD
At discretion
of CFD
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Fire Prevention Bureau
Notification
At discretion
of CFD
Required
Required
Required
Required
Required
Place of Assembly
Permit Req'd (Indoor or
Gated )
99+ persons
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Fire Watch / Code
Enforcement
At discretion
of CFD
Tents, Yes
As Required
As Required
As Required
Required
FIRE PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS
Charlotte Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau, 704-336-2101
Tents
• The erection and use of any tent or canopy in excess of 400 sq ft, requires permits issued by the Fire Prevention
Bureau.
• Tents shall comply with the N. C. Fire Prevention Code, Chapter 24.
• The Fire Prevention Bureau shall post tents used as a Place of Assembly with an Occupancy Load. Tents with a
posted occupancy load greater than 299 require Fire Watch by a minimum of two CFD personnel. (Does not
apply to tents used exclusively for religious ceremonies)
• All tents used for cooking purposes, regardless of size, shall be flame retardant and separated from other tents
by 20 feet.
• All tents/canopies shall be secured at each corner by using a minimum of 10-gallon water ballast or 70-pound
weights.
• Under no circumstances shall the tent/vendor block access to the fire hydrant. A three-foot clear space shall
be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.
Hazardous Materials (Compressed Gas Tanks)
Propane or other compressed gas tanks must be properly secured at all times to prevent tipping over. Compressed gas
fuel tanks may not be changed while cooking is taking place.
Hazardous Materials (Use and Refueling of Gasoline or Diesel Equipment)
The use of equipment fueled by gasoline or diesel fuel within the event site must be approved in advance by the
Charlotte Fire Department. The refueling of gasoline or diesel equipment (including generators) within the event site
during the open event hours is strictly prohibited.
Generators and other internal combustion power sources shall be:
• placed on hardscape (pavement, asphalt, plywood)
• separated from tents or canopies by a minimum of 20 feet
• isolated from the public by fencing (bike racks) or other approved means
• grounding rods must be removed at the end of the permitted event
• grounding rods must not be placed in the cement, tree wells or any landscaped structure
Hazardous Materials (Spills)
If a hazardous substance (i.e., gasoline or diesel fuel) is spilled during the course of an event, the Event Organizer should
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 12
immediately contact representatives from the Charlotte Fire Department to determine the appropriate means to handle
the clean-up. For large spills, a certified hazardous material handler must be contacted, and the Event Organizer will be
held responsible for any costs associated with the clean-up.
Public Safety Plan
Any outdoor event with a projected attendance greater than 999 persons shall be required to submit a Public Safety
Plan. The Public Safety Plan must address and include the following elements:
1.) Responsible Party’s Name(s) and Contact Information
2.) A Scaled Site Plan (outdoor events)
The Site Plan shall include the following:
• All structures, tents, fencing/barricades, food and beverage vendor locations, cooking operations, lighting, and
first aid stations
• Stage and Speaker layout.
• Location of all exits, fire extinguishers, fire safety equipment, and access points for emergency vehicles.
• Evacuation routes and the location of Emergency Assembly Points.
• Location of all electrical equipment, generators, and primary power supply
• Parking Arrangements and road closure locations.
3.) Severe Weather Plan (for outdoor events)
Severe weather can cause severe damage to persons and property during outdoor events. All outdoor events must
submit a severe weather plan to CFD that includes:
1. Weather Monitoring Process
• Identification of the person responsible for monitoring the weather and deciding to enact the Severe
Weather Plan.
• Must utilize a NOAA or equivalent local weather site.
• Authority to Cancel or Close the event.
2. Severe Weather Notification
• Audible notification to event staff and attendees
3. Evacuation and Shelter identification
• Location of shelters, if provided
• Notification procedure
• Use of event staff to direct attendees to appropriate shelter locations
4. All Clear Notification
• Responsibility to determine if Severe Weather conditions have abated
• Notification process
4.) Fire Watch
When, in the opinion of the fire official, it is essential for public safety, where people congregate, the event
organizer may be required to provide Fire Watch personnel with specific duties as outlined in the Fire Code. The
requirements for Fire Watch and the number of personnel required shall be based on:
• Number of persons in attendance
• Location of the activity / event
• Nature of the activity / event
• Impairment of required Life Safety Systems
• The fire official may require that Fire Watch personnel be members of the Fire Department. No fire department
personnel shall contract independently to conduct fire watch without the consent of the Fire Marshal.
Chapter 4 of the NC Fire Code provides additional guidance for Places of Assembly and Public Assemblages and Events.
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 13
TEMPORARY STRUCTURES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement, CTAC Division (704) 336-3829
City of Charlotte Code Enforcement, Zoning (704) 336-7600
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement
Temporary Events and Structures
Temporary Structures include, but are not limited to, stages, platforms, shelters, scaffolding, bleachers, grand stand
seating, and tiered seating that are erected on site during event set-up. These do not include tents and/or stages
erected on trailers.
These Temporary Structures may require permitting and inspection to ensure compliance with the NC State Building
Codes. The Special Events and Structures website provides information on special event permitting. Event organizers
should contact the Mecklenburg County Commercial Technical Assistance Center (CTAC) Division as early as possible to
ensure successful event planning.
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement Special Events and Structures
Mecklenburg County Commercial Technical Assistance Center
City of Charlotte Code Enforcement
Tents and Temporary Structures on private property
For tents and temporary structures on private property a City of Charlotte Zoning Use permit is also required prior to
event set-up. For temporary tents, the tent structure must be located outside of any required setbacks, public right of
ways and cannot occupy any required parking of any existing permitted uses.
The event organizer (or in some cases the tent vendor) will need to bring a detailed site map to the Zoning Counter
located at the Hal Marshal Center at 700 North Tryon Street. Upon approval of site plan review a Zoning Use permit will
be issued. All Zoning Use permits must be received within two weeks prior to event.
City of Charlotte Zoning Enforcement
EVENT CHECK LIST (As Applicable):
Permission from private property owner granted
Amplified Sound Permit
Business Privilege License
Beer and Wine Sales License
Prepared Food and Beverage License
Temporary Event Organizer Application for Prepared Food Sales
Temporary Food Establishment Food Vendor Application submitted by all food vendors
NC ABC Special One-Time Alcohol Permit
NCDOL Amusement Location Notice Submitted – All Amusement Device NCDOL Permits up to date
Solid Waste Collection and Removal Plan in place
Private Sanitation Agreement finalized (if City of Charlotte Solid Waste Services Department is not used)
Potable Water Needs Identified and Request Submitted for Fire Hydrants
Charlotte/Mecklenburg Planning Guide: Outdoor Event on Private Property During DNC 14
Adequate Restroom Facilities Provided
Emergency Medical Services Plan (appropriate staffing levels met according to the Charlotte Fire Department)
Charlotte Fire Department Prevention Requirements Met
Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement Requirements Met
City of Charlotte Zoning Requirements Met