December 20: NJ American Water is aware of taste and odor issues and will continue flushing the water system. We are anticipating 1 to 2 inches of snow tonight into Saturday morning. Black ice is possible. Residents have 12 daylight hours to clear snow from sidewalks once the precipitation has ended.

Commercial cooking and canopies at public events

If you are a food vendor or are cooking at public events, follow these guidelines.

Get a fire safety permit

You need a Type 1 fire safety permit if you are:

  • A cooking vendor using an open flame or flame producing device
  • Using a tent or canopy of any size in connection with cooking or heating:
    • Food
    • Beverages
  • Using a large tent or canopy:
    • Larger then 900 square feet
    • More than 30 feet in any one direction

The permit costs $54.

You need to apply at least 10 business days before the event.

Fire extinguishers

If you are doing commercial cooking, you are required to have a class K fire extinguisher.

Cooking equipment

Your cooking equipment shall be made for commercial use. You are not allowed to use residential cooking equipment.

Propane tanks

  • Secure propane tanks to prevent them from falling over
  • Propane tanks and equipment must comply with NFPA 58/2004
  • Do not store or use them in buildings/tents
  • Keep them at least 5 feet from heat sources

Mobile canteens and cooking trailers

If your cooking operations produce grease laden vapors, you need to have a ventilation hood and fire suppression system. Your fire suppression system needs to be inspected and have a current inspection tag from an approved company.

Tents and canopies

If you are using a tent or canopy, you need to make sure it is fire retardant. It needs to have a certification or tag that shows it meets NFP 701.

If it has an occupant load of greater than 50 it needs to have:

  • At least two means of egress
  • Emergency lights and exit signs with emergency backup power, such as batteries
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