How is the occupant limit for an event tent determined in Ontario?
Occupant load is calculated under Part 3 based on the tent's use and floor area, for example standing space, tables and chairs, or fixed seating each have different area-per-person rates. The exit capacity provided must then match or exceed that calculated load.
Paraphrased for clarity — open this provision in the BUILDAiD Library for the exact wording.
Event organizers tend to work backwards from ticket sales; the code works forwards from floor area and use. Standing-room concert layouts generate far higher loads than seated dinners in the same tent, so the declared layout in the permit application matters, and changing from dinner to dance floor mid-event can invalidate the exit calculation. Building officials or fire services may post an occupant limit. Stages, bars and back-of-house zones reduce usable assembly area, and Ontario Fire Code requirements for crowd management apply during operation.
How many people can be in a tent depends on its size and how it is set up: rows of chairs, dinner tables, or standing room all give different limits. The number of exits must be enough for that crowd to get out fast.
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This page is provided for general information. Building code requirements depend on your specific project, occupancy and municipality, and code editions change. Always verify requirements against the current Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.