Special Events & Permits in New Bedford, MA (2026)
2 verified special events & permits rules for New Bedford, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Parade Permits
New Bedford bars any parade or procession from occupying a street to the exclusion of other travelers unless the chief of police issues a written permit first. Section 23-14 lets the chief set the time and street space allowed and puts the parade's chief officer on the hook for compliance.
New Bedford Parade Permit Requirement
Significant RestrictionsNew Bedford, MA Code of Ordinances § 23-14
No parade or procession shall occupy or march on any street to the exclusion or interruption of other persons in their individual right and use thereof, except police and fire departments, the organized militia, the organized naval forces, the independent chartered military organizations, the military and naval forces of the United States, associations wholly composed of soldiers, sailors or ma...
Sidewalk Dining & Cafés
A New Bedford restaurant needs an outdoor cafe permit from the department of inspectional services before placing tables and chairs on the public right-of-way, and the license is limited to holders of a common victualer license. Alcohol service adds licensing board and ABCC review.
New Bedford Outdoor Cafe Permit
Some RestrictionsNew Bedford City Code § 15-100(b)
No person shall construct, maintain, use or operate an outdoor cafe without first obtaining a permit as provided in this section. The outdoor café permit application consists of submitting a completed application form, payment of the annual licensing fee, proof of insurance and any and all information contained in the application. The commissioner of inspectional services will review the applic...
Looking for Bristol County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement New Bedford city rules.
Special Events & Permits in Bristol County →