Detroit Fire Department kicks off special events season, shares safety tips for public and businesses

The Detroit Fire Department is officially kicking off Special Events season, beginning with preparations for Detroit's 68th Annual St. Patrick's Parade and the many festivities that surround it.

Each year, more than 200 special events are permitted across the City of Detroit, ranging from neighborhood block parties to large-scale celebrations that draw visitors from across the region and around the world. The Detroit Fire Department plays a vital role on the City's Special Events Committee, working hand in hand with departments including police, emergency management, buildings and safety engineering, transportation, and public works to ensure that residents and visitors alike can safely enjoy these gatherings.

The department's work is most visible during approximately a dozen major events annually - from the St. Patrick's Day Parade along Michigan Ave. to the annual Menorah Lighting in Campus Martius and many events in between - but the planning and coordination happens year-round behind the scenes.

"Detroit is the place to be," said Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms. "We are a world-class host city - something we proved on a grand scale during the 2024 NFL Draft. I could not be more proud of the men and women of the Detroit Fire Department who are doing the work behind the scenes all year. As we are already planning for Detroit to host the 2027 NCAA Final Four, we stand to ensuring every major event is both safe and successful."

Focus on St. Patrick's Day Preparations

As Detroit prepares for the Corktown Races, the 68th Annual St. Patrick's Parade and the holiday itself, the Fire Marshal Division is working closely with bars, restaurants, and event organizers - particularly in areas along and near Michigan Avenue - to review safety plans for temporary tents, outdoor activations, and increased occupancy.

Many establishments seek temporary increases in capacity during the holiday, often installing heated tents or outdoor structures to accommodate additional guests. Before any tent can be used, it must be reviewed, approved, and inspected by the Fire Marshal Division to ensure compliance with city and fire codes. This includes verifying proper anchoring, flame-retardant materials, safe heating equipment, adequate exits, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, and clear egress pathways.

On Parade Day and St. Patrick's Day, Fire Inspectors will be deployed throughout key areas conducting inspections to ensure businesses are operating within their approved capacities and that safety measures remain in place.

"Public safety is a shared responsibility," said Fire Marshal Donald Thomas. "Every special event is different, and the safety requirements are specific to each one. We ask residents, visitors, and business owners to follow all public safety directives and occupancy limits. These guidelines are in place to protect everyone and ensure that we all go home safely."

Whether it is a cultural celebration, a holiday parade, or a major national event, the Detroit Fire Department remains committed to proactive planning, prevention, and rapid response.

Special Events Safety: Do's and Don'ts

For Residents and Visitors

DO:

• Follow all directives of public safety officials
• Be aware of the nearest exit - whether you are inside a building or under a tent
• Always maintain situational awareness
• Adhere to all posted rules and signage inside tents and event spaces, including no smoking policies

DON'T:

• Block or obstruct exits, walkways, or emergency access points
• Exceed posted occupancy limits
• Smoke inside tents or in prohibited areas
• Tamper with heaters, generators, fire extinguishers, or other safety equipment

For Businesses and Event Organizers

DO:

• Ensure all tents, temporary structures, and equipment are properly permitted and approved through the City
• Learn the difference between a Special Event and a Permitted Event and apply at least 60 days prior to your event here: detroitmi.gov/government/mayors-office/special-events
• Maintain strict adherence to approved occupancy capacities
• Keep exits clearly marked, illuminated, and unobstructed

DON'T:

• Expand tent space or increase capacity without proper authorization
• Use unapproved heating devices or electrical connections
• Allow overcrowding that compromises safe egress

For more information about special event safety requirements, please contact the DFD Fire Marshal Division.