The Tent Rental Division (TRD) of Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) has been leading a nationwide effort to strengthen communication, understanding and collaboration between the tent industry and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) community.
From permitting and site planning to final inspections, AHJs and code officials play a vital role in ensuring the safety of temporary structures. Yet for many, the tent industry presents unique challenges, ranging from diverse anchoring methods and structure types to rapidly changing codes and standards. Tent operators also have a fear of dealing with tent inspectors and often leave things to chance.
Recognizing these challenges, the TRD has developed a specialized educational program specifically for AHJs and code officials. The goal is to help them better understand the tent industry’s products, installation practices and safety procedures while giving tent professionals a clearer view of what inspectors look for in the field. The result is a stronger, safer and more cooperative working environment for everyone involved.
At this year’s ATA Tent Expo, taking place January 27-29 at the Margaritaville Resort in Kissimmee, Fla., the TRD will host a two-day AHJ Educational Seminar, an ICC-approved, CEU-credited program created exclusively for code officials and inspectors. The event combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences, allowing attendees to perform mock inspections, explore different structure types and engage directly with tent manufacturers and installation experts.
As a former tent company owner and current TRD Chair, I’ve seen firsthand how essential it is to bridge the gap between code officials and the tent industry. Our mission has always been centered around collaboration, communication and mutual respect. When both sides understand each other’s challenges and priorities, it leads to safer installations, clearer expectations and stronger professional relationships.
The AHJ education effort grew out of years of conversations within the TRD about the need for consistent standards and clearer communication between installers and inspectors. Moving forward, the TRD plans to expand these sessions beyond Tent Expo to regional workshops and online learning opportunities.
In addition to formal training, the TRD is encouraging tent companies across the country to connect with their local inspectors through a grassroots outreach initiative called “Have Coffee with a Code Official.” The idea is simple but powerful: invite your local AHJ or tent inspector for coffee, build a relationship, and take the time to understand each other’s perspectives before the next inspection.
Tent professionals are encouraged to support these efforts by participating in future AHJ programs, sharing their experiences and helping strengthen connections with local code officials in their communities.
Through these initiatives, the ATA Tent Rental Division continues to advance its mission of promoting safety, consistency, and cooperation across the tenting industry, one conversation and one cup of coffee at a time.
Leave A Comment