Permits for Temporary Structures
Permits for the use of temporary structures on Virginia Tech property must be requested through an established permitting procedure. Applications for permits can be made using the online application link below. Applicants are responsible for complying with all Virginia Tech and Virginia state code requirements for temporary structures.
Permits are required for:
- Tents
- Greater than 900 square feet (or, greater than 900 square feet for the combined square footage of multiple tents located within 20 feet of each other)
- Having an occupancy of 50 people
- Events when participants are anticipated to exceed 300 people
- All stages and platforms
- All amusement devices (rides, coasters, inflatables, etc.)
- Any structure to be located within 20 feet of another structure, equipment, or plantings
- All construction trailers
- Any similar temporary structures
Applicable Virginia Tech documents:
Permits for Temporary Structures — Guidance document from the Office of the University Building Official that summarizes key requirements for temporary structures.
Virginia Tech Policy No. 5406, Requirements for Temporary Structures/Tents/Stages/Amusement Devices — University policy on the use of temporary structures on Virginia Tech property.
Virginia Tech Design and Construction Standards Manual — University standards for structures and support spaces on Virginia Tech property.
Application process:
- Consult the Permits for Temporary Structures document.
- Organize a site plan.
Site plans include the type and size of the structure, the anchoring devices, extra support equipment (lighting at night, generators/power, etc.), and distances from the structure to other structures (temporary or permanent), plantings, paths, or equipment. - Acquire engineered plans and calculations for the structure, if applicable.
Ballasted tents, tents greater than 2,400 square feet, and any structure within 20 feet of another structure require engineered plans and calculations to address wind loads and safety. - Layout the floor plan.
Floor plans include size of the structure and measured layouts for chairs and tables, means of egress, exit signage or lighting, accessible paths, tent sidewalls, and equipment or accessories within the structure. - Prepare the plans for submission with the online application.
Additional Resources:
- Below are flowcharts that provide guidance and more specific information about different types of temporary permits.
- Below is a sample submission that can be used as a guide for putting together your application.
For Help:
- Contact the Office of the University Building Official if you have questions about the process or about the documents that are required for the permit.
- If you have a tent that will be secured to the ground using stakes, read this staking pocket guide.
