Ridgewood, NJ Special Events & Permits: Block Party Permits (2026)

Chapter 207A, the Public Assembly Ordinance, was adopted the same day as the Parade Ordinance, May 14, 2008 by Ordinance No. 3117, and covers events that do not qualify as parades. Section 207A-2 defines a 'public assembly' as a gathering of more than 10 persons for a common purpose in a place open to the public, resulting from prior planning, lasting more than 30 minutes, and not obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic; the section specifically contemplates these gatherings being accommodated in Village parks, public plazas or sidewalks adjacent to public roadways, the same footprint a residential block party or sidewalk gathering would use.

Section 207A-3 requires a permit from the office of the Chief of Police before anyone arranges, conducts or organizes such an assembly, with the application filed at least five business days before the event date; unlike a parade permit, there is no charge for a public assembly permit. Section 207A-4 requires the application to list the organizer's contact information, expected number of participants, date, location, time and duration, use of amplification or live music, and any special security needs, plus a certification that the gathering will not obstruct traffic.

Under § 207A-5 the Chief may deny the permit for a false or incomplete application, unpaid damage from a past assembly, a conflict with previously scheduled Village activities, disruption of a nearby school in session, or a request so disruptive to neighborhood peace and quiet that the Village must instead try to find an alternate time or place. The Chief must decide within two business days under § 207A-6, and a denial can be appealed in writing to the Village Manager within two business days under § 207A-7. Section 207A-8 requires an indemnification agreement and public liability insurance.