Fire Safety Requirements for Temporary Commercial Spaces & Pop-Up Locations

Introduction

Pop-up shops, seasonal storefronts, and temporary commercial installations are booming. Whether it's a holiday retail kiosk, a traveling exhibit, or a short-term lease for a flash sale, these setups often pop up quickly and, just as fast, disappear. But there’s one thing that can’t be skipped: fire safety.

Fire hazards don’t take a break just because your business is temporary. And regulators certainly won’t cut you slack for skipping compliance. In fact, temporary spaces often have heightened scrutiny due to their makeshift nature, unfamiliar layouts, and limited safety infrastructure.

This guide walks you through what you need to know to keep your pop-up location compliant, safe, and ready to open for business—without risking penalties or public safety.

TLDR - Quick Guide

• Temporary doesn’t mean exempt—fire codes still apply.
  
  
• Focus on emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and fire-resistant materials.
  
  
• Most issues come from electrical setups, blocked exits, or non-compliant signage.
  
  
• You'll likely need a fire inspection and permits from your local authority.
  
  
• Working with certified inspectors (like AAA Fire Protection) can streamline compliance and avoid shutdowns.
  
  

Detailed Breakdown

1. Understand the Fire Code—Yes, It Still Applies

All commercial spaces, including temporary ones, are subject to local and state fire codes. This includes the International Fire Code (IFC) and possibly the NFPA Life Safety Code, depending on your jurisdiction. These regulations cover occupancy limits, electrical safety, emergency preparedness, and more.

2. Common Fire Risks in Pop-Up Environments

Temporary setups tend to involve:

• Improvised electrical wiring or power strips
  
  
• Flammable decor or materials
  
  
• Inadequate access to fire extinguishers
  
  
• Blocked emergency exits
  
  
• Lack of trained personnel in fire response
  
  

These all increase your risk profile—and your responsibility.

3. Minimum Fire Safety Requirements

Here’s what you need before opening your doors:

• Fire Extinguishers: Must be visible, accessible, and appropriately rated for the type of fire risk.
  
  
• Emergency Exits: Clear, unobstructed, and marked with illuminated signage. Emergency lighting must function during power outages.
  
  
• Smoke Detectors & Alarms: Required for any enclosed space with people inside. Temporary doesn’t mean optional.
  
  
• Material Compliance: Use fire-retardant decor and verify furniture and fabrics meet flame spread ratings.
  
  
• Inspection: Often, an official inspection and certificate of occupancy are needed—even for short-term events.
  
  

4. Who Is Responsible?

If you're leasing a space—even short-term—the responsibility for fire safety is shared. Tenants must comply with code during the period of occupancy. Landlords must ensure the base infrastructure is compliant, but any modifications or equipment installations fall under the tenant’s liability.

5. How AAA Fire Protection Can Help

With 30 years of experience and a client list across retail, hospitality, and pop-up sectors, AAA Fire Protection offers:

• Commercial fire code compliance inspections
  
  
• Fire extinguisher service and training
  
  
• Emergency exit lighting inspections
  
  
• Custom fire safety programs tailored to temporary setups
  
  

We help clients avoid delays, fines, or shutdowns by making sure every pop-up is inspection-ready.

Key Takeaways

• Compliance is non-negotiable: Temporary spaces must meet the same fire code requirements as permanent locations.
  
  
• Top risks are usually preventable: Blocked exits, flammable decor, and overloaded circuits are all fixable with early planning.
  
  
• Permits and inspections are often mandatory: Don't wait until the fire marshal shows up—schedule a professional inspection.
  
  
• Train your team: Even if they’re seasonal staff, everyone needs to know what to do in an emergency.
  
  
• AAA Fire Protection can simplify the process: From inspections to training, we've got the expertise pop-ups need to stay safe and compliant.
  
  

FAQs

1. Do pop-up stores need fire permits?
Yes. Most cities require a temporary permit and an inspection, especially if you're operating in a space not typically zoned for retail or events. Always check with your local fire authority.

2. Can I use decorative lights or heating equipment in my temporary space?
You can, but they must meet safety standards. Avoid overloaded circuits, use UL-listed products, and ensure no flammable materials are nearby.

3. Who checks fire safety for pop-ups—me or the landlord?
Both. Landlords handle the base infrastructure, but as a tenant, you're responsible for making sure your specific setup meets code—including signage, extinguishers, and layout.

4. Is fire safety training required for short-term staff?
While not always legally required, it's strongly recommended. Training your team—even with a quick fire extinguisher demo—can save lives and protect your assets.

‍5. What happens if I fail a fire inspection?
You may be denied a permit, face delays in opening, or receive fines. Working with certified professionals like AAA Fire Protection ensures you’re inspection-ready from the start.