Ensuring safe and compliant campus events.
Fire & Life Safety during Events
An event permit may be required to ensure the fire and life safety of the campus community. Issues of concern include:
- Expected attendance of fifty or more people
- Campus space being used for other than normal purposes
- Tents or canopies over 400 sq ft
- Locations that could impact access by emergency vehicles
- Use of open flame, pyrotechnics and/or compressed gas cylinders
For more details on fire safety see: Special Event Checklist
It is the responsibility of event organizers to ensure that vendors are aware of all regulations and requirements of the permit. If fire and life safety violations are found, event organizers will be given an opportunity for compliance. Failure to adhere to requirements may result in closure of the event.
How Do I:
Know what permits I need for an event?
Apply for event permits?
- Use the Event Permit portal to apply.
- For guidance, review the Event Permit Procedures.
Determine whether fire safety coverage fees apply to my event?
Beginning July 1, 2026, events that require on-site fire safety personnel may be charged an hourly fee for that coverage. FY27 rates are:
- UC Berkeley departments and student organizations: $202.09/hr
- Campus Affiliates (Cal Alumni Association, UC Foundation, I-House, MSRI, LBNL/LLNL, other UC campuses, Faculty Clubs): $222.30/hr
- External organizations with no UC affiliation hosting events on campus: $324.36/hr
The on-site fire safety coverage fee is separate from the existing event permit fee. Event permit fees will continue to be paid through the existing permit application process. When on-site fire safety coverage is required, the related coverage fee will be billed after the event is complete.
Events that may require on-site fire safety coverage include events involving open flame, cooking or grilling equipment, generators, inflatables, large outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, tailgates, commencement receptions, or other elevated-risk activities.
Not every permitted event will require on-site coverage. EH&S will determine whether coverage is required based on the event activities, permit requirements, and fire and life safety considerations.
For questions regarding whether an event may require on-site fire safety coverage, please contact Fire Prevention at fireprevention@berkeley.edu or (510) 642-3073.
Get a food permit?
A food permit is required for any event where food will be provided to the general PUBLIC (or campus community) to reduce the risk of food contamination and foodborne illness.
For more details on the proper preparation, transportation, display, and disposal of the food products see: Safe Food Handling Practices.
How do I reserve a location for an event?
Locations may be reserved through the following resources:
- Event Services- (510) 642-1141 or eventservices@berkeley.edu
- Classroom Management- (510) 664-9181
- Contact the appropriate Building Coordinator for the facility.
Find out the maximum occupancy of a room?
You can find the seating capacity for all classrooms at the Office of the Registrar. For all other spaces on campus, or if you are planning on anything other than its normal use, please contact Fire Prevention at 510-642-3073 orfireprevention@berkeley.edu.