Bensalem, PA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Section 56-4 defines a special event as an outdoor activity or contest expected to draw 50 or more participants or attendees, and expressly lists parades among the covered events, along with block parties, carnivals, circuses, fairs, festivals, and open-air concerts. Section 56-5 makes it unlawful to hold such an event without registering with the Township at least 30 days in advance and obtaining a permit from the Department of Building and Planning. The application must detail the sponsor's contact information, the exact date, time, and location, the estimated attendance, a request for needed special services such as police, fire, and EMS, proof of notification to Township Police and the covering fire company, and proof of the required insurance and performance bond.

The property owner pays a $50.00 per-day permit fee, and the person operating the event pays a separate $250.00 per-day fee covering Township inspections and permit issuance, plus the actual cost of any special services requested. Section 56-10 requires liability insurance of $5,000,000 for carnivals, circuses, amusement rides, or events serving alcohol, and $2,000,000 for other special events, and Section 56-11 requires a $10,000.00 performance bond, reducible to $2,500.00 on request. Section 56-8 lets the Director of Building and Planning deny a permit for unpaid fees or missing insurance or bonds, with a right to appeal a denial to Council within ten days.