Chico, CA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Public works director
- Designated route filing
- 5 business days ahead
- Non-designated route filing
- 25 business days ahead
- Violation class
- Infraction, City Charter § 1505
- Park exemption
- Events entirely inside Bidwell Park
Summary
Chico requires a public works department permit before any parade closes a city street to traffic, filed 5 to 25 business days ahead depending on whether the route is city-designated.
It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct, sponsor, or knowingly participate in any parade or public assembly unless a permit for such event has been issued pursuant to this chapter.
B. This chapter shall not apply to any parade or public assembly conducted exclusively within the boundary of a city park or playground under the jurisdiction of the Bidwell Park and Playground Commission. (Ord. 2275)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Under Chico Municipal Code § 14.50.050(A), it is unlawful to conduct, sponsor, or knowingly participate in a parade on a city street, sidewalk, or right-of-way without a permit from the public works director. Applications for a parade on a council-designated route must be filed at least 5 city business days ahead; a route off the designated list needs 25 business days per § 14.50.060(A). The director may deny an application for false information, a scheduling conflict, public-safety risk, or a route that won't finish within four hours, and a denial can be appealed to the city manager. The rule doesn't reach parades held entirely inside a Bidwell Park and Playground Commission park.
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 14.50 or a permit's conditions is an infraction punishable by a fine under Chico City Charter § 1505 (§ 14.50.220); police, the fire chief, or the director can also suspend an event mid-route for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chico require a permit for a parade?
How far ahead must I apply for a Chico parade permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
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