Christmas trees
placement within buildings
We explain this through NFPA 1, Fire Code (2018 edition).
10.13 indicate Combustible Vegetation.
10.13.1 Combustible vegetation, including natural
cut Christmas trees, shall be in accordance with Section 10.13.
10.13.1.1 Christmas tree placement within buildings
shall comply with Table 10.13.1.1.
10.13.2 In any occupancy, limited quantities of
combustible vegetation shall be permitted where the AHJ determines that
adequate safeguards are provided based on the quantity and nature of the
combustible vegetation.
10.13.3 Provisions
for Fire Retardance for Artificial Vegetation.
10.13.3.1 Artificial vegetation and artificial
Christmas trees shall be labeled or otherwise identified or certified by the
manufacturer as being fire retardant.
10.13.3.2 Such fire retardance shall be demonstrated
by each individual decorative vegetation item, including any decorative
lighting, in an approved manner.
10.13.4 Vegetation and Christmas trees shall not
obstruct corridors, exit ways, or other means of egress.
10.13.5 Only listed electrical lights and wiring
shall be used on natural or artificial combustible vegetation, natural or
artificial Christmas trees, and other similar decorations.
10.13.6 Electrical lights shall be prohibited on
metal artificial trees.
10.13.7 Open flames such as from candles,
lanterns, kerosene heaters, and gas-fired heaters shall not be located on or
near combustible vegetation, Christmas trees, or other similar combustible
materials.
10.13.8 Combustible vegetation and natural cut
Christmas trees shall not be located near heating vents or other fixed or
portable heating devices that could cause it to dry out prematurely or to be
ignited.
10.13.9 Provisions for Natural Cut Trees.
10.13.9.1 Where a natural cut tree is permitted, the
bottom end of the trunk shall be cut off with a straight fresh cut at
least 1∕ 2 in. (13 mm)
above the end prior to placing the tree in a stand to allow the tree to absorb
water.
10.13.9.2 The tree shall be placed in a suitable
stand with water.
10.13.9.3 The water level shall be maintained above
the fresh cut and checked at least once daily.
10.13.9.4 The tree shall be removed from the
building immediately upon evidence of dryness.
10.13.10 Exterior Vegetation.
10.13.10.1 Cut or uncut weeds, grass, vines, and other
vegetation shall be removed when determined by the AHJ to be a fire hazard.
10.13.10.2 When the AHJ determines that total removal
of growth is impractical due to size or environmental factors, approved fuel
breaks shall be established.
10.13.10.3 Designated areas shall be cleared of
combustible vegetation to establish the fuel breaks.
