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Published December 05, 2008, 12:00 AM

State fire code says no to real trees

The state of Wisconsin Uniform Fire Code says live Christmas trees are not permitted in places of assembly, board or care facilities, detention or correctional facilities, dormitories, educational facilities and hotels.

The state of Wisconsin Uniform Fire Code says live Christmas trees are not permitted in places of assembly, board or care facilities, detention or correctional facilities, dormitories, educational facilities and hotels.

According to information provided by Hudson Fire Chief Jim Frye, facilities that fall into the category of assembly spaces include theaters, television and radio studios that admit an audience, banquet halls, night clubs, restaurants, taverns and bars, churches, recreation, amusement and places used for viewing indoor and outdoor sporting events.

Because of the late notice of this code change, the Hudson Fire Department will not enforce this rule change in 2008 as long as certain conditions are met:

  • The tree shall not exceed 6 feet in height.

  • One inch shall be cut off the lower end of the trunk before it’s placed into a stand.

  • The tree must be placed in a stable stand that will hold water, and it must be watered daily.

  • Trees must be removed from the building immediately upon evidence of dryness and placed away from heat and ignition sources.

  • Lit trees should use small bulbs or LEDs with UL listed lights.

  • Trees are not permitted in areas that allow smoking.

    In 2009 the code banning live trees will be enforced.

    For more information, call Fire Inspector Dave Krupich at (715) 386-4270.

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