Annapolis, MD Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Special Events Coordinator
- Application fee
- $125, nonrefundable
- Key exemption
- lawful picketing/demonstrations exempt
- Appeal route
- written reconsideration to City Manager, 14 days
- Violation
- municipal infraction, Council-set fine
Summary
Annapolis requires a special event permit from the Special Events Coordinator before any parade, assembly, show, or exhibition uses public streets, alleys, rights-of-way, or City waters, unless it fits a narrow exemption like lawful picketing.
No person or entity may hold or participate in any parade, assembly, show, meeting, or exhibition upon any of the public streets, alleys, rights-of-way, City waters, or other public property without first obtaining a permit in accordance with Chapter 14.18 of the City Code, unless as elsewhere provided in this Code. A violation of any provision of this section shall constitute a municipal infraction and for each violation, the person or entity in violation is subject to a fine as established by resolution of the City Council.
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
City Code § 11.12.050 bars holding or joining any parade, assembly, show, meeting, or exhibition on public streets, alleys, rights-of-way, City waters, or other public property without a permit issued under Chapter 14.18. Section 14.18.040 places that duty on the Special Events Coordinator, who reviews the application, can approve, condition, or deny it, and may require added Federal, State, County, or City permits. The nonrefundable application fee is $125 under § 14.18.100(A). Lawful picketing, demonstrations, and assemblies in public rights-of-way, funeral processions, motorcades, and U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen marches are exempt under § 14.18.050.
Violations & Fines
Holding or joining an unpermitted parade or assembly is a municipal infraction under § 11.12.050, with a fine set by City Council resolution; a broader Chapter 14.18 violation is separately punishable as a municipal infraction under § 14.18.170.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a peaceful protest march in Annapolis?
How much does an Annapolis parade permit cost?
What happens if I hold a parade without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Annapolis
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