CTS standard for tents and marquees: the guide

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VITABRI designs and manufactures professional, durable and safe solutions. This operational guide summarizes the key points organizers, operators, and venue owners need to know. (Official information: decree of 25/06/1980 and decree of 23/01/1985.) and helps you prepare your events in accordance with the CTS framework.

This content is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official regulations (ERP Regulations, CTS chapter) and local requirements (town hall/fire department/safety commission). If you have any questions, please contact our team: we can help you prepare your application.

Rental of folding marquees

CTS: the essentials

What is it about?

The CTS type applies to establishments open to the public consisting of marquees, tents, and mobile structures. The regulations specify:

  • Stability of the framework and anchoring,
  • Fire reaction of envelopes/fabrics,
  • Inspections by a control office,
  • Operation : register, instructions, evacuation, certificates.

Why is this important?

Ensuring public safety , facilitating relations with authorities and avoiding unforeseen events on the day.

Reference texts

  • ERP safety regulations (decree of 25/06/1980, consolidated version).
  • Chapter CTS and special provisions (including decree of 23/01/1985).
  • Appendices: templates for certificates/reports and implantation requirements.

Tip: Print out the relevant sections (the CTS chapter, appendices) and place them at the front of your safety log.

Cargo bike festival

Key Bonds

Before exploitation

  • Verifications by an accredited body (structure + envelopes).
  • Site plan : plan, emergency access, exits/clearances, capacity, electricity (protections, cables), heating (if authorized).
  • Certifications : fire reaction classifications, technical notices, certificates.

During exploitation

  • Up-to-date and available security log .
  • Access monitoring , keeping exits clear and marked .
  • Compliant equipment and safety briefing for the team (evacuation).
  • Documents will be presented to the safety commission if requested.

Heating & Electricity

  • Heating : uses strictly regulated ; check local conditions (often restrictions or prohibitions inside canvas).
  • Generator sets : keep away from walls and respect the prescribed distances.
  • Electricity : appropriate protections, secure cables and connections.

VITABRI Advice: Plan ahead with a site plan validated by the town hall/SDIS.

Registre de sécurité

Security Register: The Basics

The security log records the history of the establishment:

  • Verifications (control reports),
  • Fire resistance certificates ,
  • Plans (layout, evacuation),
  • Instructions and team training ,
  • Observations and compliance actions .

Recommended format

A light-colored CTS shirt :

  1. cover page,
  2. list of parts,
  3. tabs Plans / Checks / Certifications / Instructions .
Issue de secours d'un barnum

Standard procedure

  1. Plan and validate the need for declaration/authorization .
  2. Prepare the file: plan, capacities, exits, electricity, heating (if provided), fire reaction report, verification report .
  3. Installation : respecting distances, anchoring (ballasting, securing), signage.
  4. Operation : logbook available, team briefed, emergency access maintained.
  5. Closing : archive reports/observations for the next edition.

Checklist to be included in the register

  • Fire reaction report for the canvases
  • Inspection office report (structure + envelope)
  • Site plan (exits, emergency access, distances)
  • Electrical and/or heating system (if applicable)
  • Evacuation instructions and diagram
  • Up-to-date security log

Reminder: Local authorities (town hall/fire service) are the point of contact for the regulations applicable to your site.