More on SXSW permits

SXSW parties chafe at shutdowns over permit: "The party at Factory People was one of 330 occupancy inspections, including multiple visits to some venues, performed by fire officials during South by Southwest, Smith said.

And fire inspectors worked more than 98 hours of overtime trying to make sure buildings were safe for the people inside, Smith said. 'They may believe what they have is a safe operation, but that may not necessarily be the case,' Smith said. 'They need to understand that safety is the most important thing.'

The permit was meant to provide a way for venues to host parties legally and give fire inspectors an easier way to judge on the spot whether a building had been inspected, Smith said.

'It makes it easier for everybody,' he said. 'We know they're legal, they know they're legal.'

Before that, fire inspectors would write inspection reports allowing businesses to temporarily change their use, but no permit was required.

He said about 30 events — mostly at fraternity houses — were shut down last year for not having the proper public assembly permit.

Smith said seven places received temporary change of use permits last week. He said gatherings like house parties typically don't need the permit, and the fire department has never issued one for a residence.

Meanwhile, Le Popov said she had been in contact with the city in the days leading up to the party and no one told her about the permit requirement. She said she did not consult with the fire department and would have applied for the permit had she known about it.

The store has been open for four years, and the Popovs said they have never been shut down before.

Their experience this year, however, has made them rethink whether to have any more parties during South by Southwest at all. 'As long as there is a level of hostility between (the city, South by Southwest and other businesses), people are going to continue to be shut down,' Le Popov said.

'I just don't want to be put in a position where I'm doing so much on my own (for South by Southwest) and risk relationships with sponsors, customers and guests.'"

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