Natural Cut Trees are permitted in:

• One & Two Family Homes
• Living Spaces of an Apartment
• Businesses
• Factories
• Storage Buildings
• Assembly Buildings that are not protected by a sprinkler system only under the following conditions:

** One non-flame proofed resinous Christmas tree is permitted at the discretion of the enforcing authority in a place of public assembly whose exits are in full compliance with this Part provided the following conditions are observed:

1. Such tree shall be set up only between December 23 and January 2.
2. It shall be fresh and not dry.
3. It shall be kept with its base immersed in water.
4. An approved two and one-half gallon soda ash or loaded stream fire extinguisher shall be kep in plain sight within 15 feet of such tree.
5. No lighted tree shall be set up at the bottom of a stairwell nor within 25 feet of an exit.
6. No flammable decorations and no lights other than electric lights shall be used on such tree.

Natural cut trees located in areas protected by an approved sprinkler system are also permitted in:

• Assembly Occupancies
• Mercantile Occupancies
• Fraternities & Sororities
• Boarding Houses
• Hotel/Motels
• Schools

Natural Cut Trees are PROHIBITED in:

• Day Care Facilities with 6 or more persons being provided for
• Institutional Occupancies

Natural Cut Trees requirements:

Natural Cut Trees shall have the trunk bottoms cut off at least 0.5 inches above the original cut immediately prior to display and shall be placed in a support device.

• Support devices
• It shall hold the tree securely and be of adequate size to avoid tipping over
• It shall be capable of containing a minimum 2-day supply of water
• The water level, when full, shall cover the tree stem at least 2 inches above the cut. The water level shall be maintained above the fresh cut and checked at least once daily

The tree shall be removed from the building whenever the needles or leaves fall off readily when a tree branch is shaken

The means of egress shall not be obstructed by decorative vegetation/trees

Candles and open flames shall not be used on or near decorative vegetation or trees.

Trees shall be kept a distance from heat vents, open flame or heat producing devices at least equal to the height of the tree.

If you have questions or concerns regarding natural cut trees or decorative vegetation requirements call the City of Ithaca Fire Department at 607-272-1234 for information.