The Ann Arbor Fire Department is putting event organizers on notice: generators, tents, fencing and stages at large off-campus gatherings all require city permits, and violators face citations or cease-and-desist orders as University of Michigan students flood back for fall semester.

The department posted the warning on social media Saturday, Aug. 22, days before U-M's move-in program begins Monday, Aug. 24, according to MLive.

The message draws a line between traditional college parties and what the department called "the increasing use of residential properties for large, commercial events and concerts operated by for-profit companies." Those events must meet zoning, building and fire safety requirements, the department said.

Fencing installed for an event requires separate review by the city's fire marshal to confirm occupancy limits, travel distances, emergency access and means of egress.

2025 DaBaby concert prompted action

Fire Chief Mike Kennedy said the department forced organizers to remove unpermitted fencing at the Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) fraternity house before rapper DaBaby took the stage at an August 2025 concert. Kennedy said there were significant concerns about overcrowding had the fencing stayed in place.

City staff told the Ann Arbor City Council that current penalties have not deterred some organizers, who simply choose to pay fines rather than comply.

That frustration led to a proposed ordinance that, as amended, would have required permits for events drawing more than 250 people. A first violation would have been a civil infraction carrying a $1,000 fine, while defying a subsequent fire, building or police order would have been a misdemeanor punishable by up to $10,000 in fines and/or 90 days in jail. The original draft set the permit threshold at 100 attendees. Council Member Disch moved to adopt the ordinance, seconded by Council Member Mallek, and the council voted 6-5 on Aug. 6 to reject it.

What organizers need to know

With the tougher ordinance dead, the fire department's warning relies on existing permit and building-code authority. The department said failure to obtain required permits will result in municipal citations and, when appropriate, a cease-and-desist order.

The city has approved traffic and parking changes on certain streets for U-M's move-in program running Aug. 24 through Aug. 30.

Residents who see unpermitted event activity can contact the Ann Arbor Fire Department or the city's building department.