November 17, 2020
Dear Playhouse Village Businesses,
The City of Pasadena has reviewed the recent concerns related to the use of propane heaters (mushroom style) inside of the tents used for outdoor dining. They are certainly sensitive to the ongoing issues and remain committed to finding ways to allow our local businesses to thrive. Therefore, effective immediately, the Pasadena Fire Department is authorizing the use of propane heaters inside of tent structures, subject to the guidelines below.
Propane Heaters & Tents Policy Update
The City of Pasadena has authorized the use of propane heaters inside of tent structures, subject to the following parameters:
1. The heater must remain AT LEAST 5 feet away from any combustible materials.
2. The heater must remain AT LEAST 5 feet from the ceiling of the tent.
3. The heater may not obstruct any exit pathways or other means of egress.
4. The operator shall adhere to all manufacturers guidelines for use and operation of the heater.
5. The business must make a request to use the heaters using the City of Pasadena Rapid Reopening Permits portal, and is subject to final approval by the Pasadena Fire Department. You can access the portal with the guidelines and application for the propane permit here. The permit portal may not reflect these latest guidelines but please submit your application and plans and the fire department will work closely with you to meet these new regulations.
6. Storage of propane cylinders must be in a secured container/ locker/ cabinet and in an approved location.
The Pasadena Fire Department is making the approvals of these permits a priority. Once a request is received, the fire department will conduct a site visit to assist business owners with a logical and compliant location for the heaters. This in-person visit will ease communication and immediately resolve any issues or concerns.
Tents in Outdoor Dining Areas
The Pasadena Fire Department has developed a simplified set of guidelines for businesses
interested in setting up tents (with or without walls), canopies, and umbrellas in
outdoor dining spaces. Please find a copy of the Fire Department Guidelines here and apply in the City of Pasadena Rapid Reopening Permits portal here. The permit portal may not reflect the latest guidelines update about use of heaters inside tents, but please submit your application and plans and the fire department will work closely with you to meet these new regulations.
Where tent walls are installed for on-street dining locations, a clear wall is recommended to allow visibility between the on-street dining areas and the roadway. If the tent is located within 50’ of a driveway or alley, the tent walls shall be clear to allow visibility for motorist and pedestrians. In addition, the California Department of Public Health does not allow for tents to have more than one sidewall while COVID-19 restrictions are in place. A fully enclosed tent is equivalent to indoor dining, which is precluded under the State’s framework and Pasadena Public Health Order.
The PVA is committed to supporting our business community in every possible way. Please don’t hesitate to contact the PVA at info@playhousevillage.org with any questions or concerns you may have.
