Side of a fire truck with the letters MFD
Fire
Chris Carbon, Fire Chief

Pyrotechnics Special Effects, Flame Effects, and Fire Performance Art

This permit is for Pyrotechnics and Flame Effects Before a Proximate Audience. This permit application can also be used for Fire Performance Art, which includes fire juggling, fire eating, fire dancing, and other attended, manually controlled fire effects.

With this permit, you do not also need to apply for Fireworks Event or Shooter Permit.

Your application must include:

  • Application form
  • $250 permit fee
  • General summary of the performance, including safety plan information.
  • For indoor events: Indoor floor plan of the venue, which must include: 
    • Dimensions of the performance area
    • Distance to audience
    • Rooms, seating, aisles, and exits
    • Equipment layout
  • For outdoor events: Outdoor site plan, which must include:
    • Distances between the audience, buildings, roadways, and public pathways
    • Other special conditions
  • Written permission from the property owner, an approved Street Use Permit, or an explanation why neither are necessary.
  • Resumé detailing the applicant's experience with pyrotechnics, flame effects, or fire art performances. The resume should state 5 previous experiences (refer to NFPA 1126, Annex C).
  • Copies of valid ATF or US DOT licenses allowing the applicant to transport and handle the materials that will be used as part of the event, as applicable.
  • Certificate of Insurance naming the City of Madison as an additional insured. The certificate must indemnify the City and have a minimum amount of $1,000,000. The City may require additional coverage based on risk.
    • Certificate Holder:
      City of Madison
      ATTN: Risk Management, Rm 406
      210 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
      Madison, WI 53703

Permit Requirements

The permit holders are responsible for complying with all applicable codes and standards. These requirements are found in:

The Chief may impose special conditions on a permit as deemed appropriate under the circumstances of the planned event.

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