Figures the county would have a code just for Halloween parties and houses.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr/prevention/halloween.htm
HALLOWEEN PARTIES AND HAUNTED HOUSES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - POLICY
August 2003
1. CODE
Any Building intended to be used for Halloween parties or haunted houses shall be approved for occupancy. In order to comply with the use group intended, the building owner shall obtain a Fire Prevention Code Permit for Place of Public Assembly. An inspection request shall be made to the Fire Prevention Division 703-246-4849 at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance and approval granted by this Division prior to opening the site.
The following is a list of fire safety requirements that can be used to provide a fire-safe environment for all occupants.
2. BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
1. All areas shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Wood shall be pressure treated fire retardant and used only in a nonstructural application.
2. Only latex and water based paint shall be allowed on premises.
3. Handrails shall be required on stairs having three or more risers (steps).
4. Emergency white lights and exit lights shall be provided.
5. Aisle spaces shall be at least 36 inches wide.
6. No dead ends over 20 feet long shall be permitted.
7. "No Smoking" signs shall be posted at front entrances.
8. Exit discharges shall be illuminated.
9. Exit doors, aisle corridors, passageways, etc., shall not be blocked or obstructed in any manner.
3. DECORATIONS
1. All decorations shall be flame resistant (foam plastics not permitted).
2. Straw, dry vines, leaves, trees, artificial flowers, cornsilk, cornstalks or vegetables shall not be permitted, unless such material is flame-proofed with an approved material.
3. All ropes, wires, pull chains and cables shall be at least eight (8) feet from the floor.
4. No open flames or candles are permitted.
5. No kerosene heaters or lanterns are permitted.
4. GENERAL SAFETY
1. All groups shall be escorted by an attendant and limited to ten (10) persons. Attendants shall be positioned at the entrance and exit.
2. All attendants shall have operational flashlights.
3. A means shall be provided, and shall be constantly attended, to illuminate the entire interior of the building in the event of a fire or other emergency.
4. A method shall be available to notify public safety agencies by telephoning "9-1-1" in case of an emergency.
5. Bales of straw shall not be piled more than one standard bale in height for use to construct a maze and bales shall not be used in any structure.
6. Bales of straw shall not be used to construct any type of structure or tunnel.
If you need more information, please call the Fire Inspections Branch.
Fairfax County is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in all county programs, services and activities and will provide this document in alternative formats and in different languages upon request. Please call 703-246-4753 (TTY: 711 or 1-800-828-1140) or write: Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire Prevention Division, 10700 Page Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030. Please allow at least seven working days for preparation of material
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/29/2007 09:53AM by Lurker..