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Annapolis, MD Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permit required
No, if within exemption
Max closure
Two city blocks or one cul-de-sac
Alcohol on public property
Not allowed
Enforcing office
Special Events Coordinator
If exemption exceeded
Municipal infraction, fine by resolution

Summary

Annapolis exempts block parties from its special event permit requirement, but only if the gathering closes no more than two blocks or one cul-de-sac and serves no alcohol on public property.

"Block party" means a social gathering for neighbors living on a block, alley, or street, which requires the closure of no more than two city blocks or a single cul-de-sac, and does not involve the consumption of alcoholic beverages on any public property. ... The following special events are exempt from the requirements of this chapter: ... L. Block parties.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

Section 14.18.050.L of the Annapolis City Code lists block parties among the special events exempt from the Chapter 14.18 special event permit requirement, so a qualifying block party needs no permit from the Special Events Coordinator. The exemption only covers what Section 14.18.020.D defines as a block party: a neighbor gathering closing no more than two city blocks or a single cul-de-sac, with no alcoholic beverages consumed on public property. A gathering that closes more streets, involves public-property alcohol, or otherwise meets the Section 14.18.020.M definition of a "special event" falls outside the exemption and needs a permit under Section 14.18.040 before it can be held.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted special events that exceed the block-party exemption are municipal infractions under Section 14.18.170, punishable by a fine set by City Council resolution; the Special Events Coordinator can also deny or revoke a permit for material misstatements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to hold a block party in Annapolis?
No. Section 14.18.050.L exempts block parties from the Chapter 14.18 special event permit requirement, as long as the gathering fits the code's definition of a block party.
What makes a gathering a 'block party' instead of a special event?
Under Section 14.18.020.D it must close no more than two city blocks or one cul-de-sac and involve no alcohol consumption on public property.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Annapolis

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All Annapolis rules

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