Fire Prevention: Plan Checks & Permits

The Fire Prevention Division is responsible for processing plan checks of new construction and remodel projects within the city and performing acceptance testing and inspections of fire sprinklers (commercial/residential) and special hazards systems for new and remodeled development.

Fire Prevention Division oversees business inspection and weed abatement programs and enforces hazardous materials storage/use and disposal laws. 

The Division consists of the Fire Marshal, a Fire Prevention Specialist, and an Administrative Assistant.

Fire Permit Application
Map: High Fire Severity Zones

Tent/Canopy Permit Information

An operational permit is required for air-supported temporary membrane structure or tent having an area in excess of 400 square feet per California Fire Code (CFC) 105.7.16.

An application must be submitted prior to erecting a tent or canopy. A structure or tent less than 400 square feet does not require a permit.  Approved permits are not transferable to another location.  

Documentation Required: 

  • Certificate of Flame Resistance - for tent or canopy. Issued by State Fire Marshal. 
  • Floor Plan - all tables, chairs and other items under tent(s) should be indicated on floor plan. Include location of exit signs, extinguisher placement, and occupant load. 
  • Site Plan - identify address, APN, zoning, property boundaries and location of adjacent road(s) including ingress/egress to the site, proposed location of sales inventory, existing and proposed locations of structures/improvements (such as tents, power, vehicular parking and drive isles, and restroom locations), dimensions of structures/improvements, and whether structures/improvements are temporary or permanent in nature. Restrooms and parking improvements must be ADA compliant.  

Please allow a minimum of 3 business days to process this permit. 

For a printable version of this information, click here: Tent/Canopy Permit Information 


Click here for an application: Tent/Canopy Permit Application 

Please allow a minimum of 3 business days to process this permit. 

Fire Operational and Prevention Permits - Submittal Process 

Please email the completed Fire Permit Application, plans and supporting documents to fireprevention@cosb.org to initiate the process. Each document needs to be in it’s own PDF file, clearly named with property address and type of document. All files must be flatten with no security locks/restrictions. Plan review will not be performed if the plans examiners run into these issues. The City will notify you of next steps for payment at the City Hall and full plan review. 

At payment please provide:

  • Invoice for Plan Check
  • Payment (Cash, Check made out to the City of Solana Beach, or Credit Card [2.9% fee will be added])

Once review is completed and if there are corrections, the City will email the corrections and instructions for resubmittal. Once review is complete and approved, the City will notify you by email for payment and issuance.

Additional Links

Recreational Fire Policy
Defensible Space Preparation and Precautions
Knox Boxes and Accessories
Office of the State Fire Marshal
Prepare for Wildfire

Fire Prevention Specialist

Mobile Phone (858) 863-3116