Colorado Springs, CO Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Section 3.2.403 defines a special event to include any organized parade, procession or assembly of 100+ people traveling on a public street outside normal traffic controls, any 100+-person park assembly, any activity affecting public property or requiring public safety services, and any event needing a temporary street, alley or right-of-way closure or barricades: expressly listing parades, circuses, fairs, festivals, block parties, community events, marathons and motorcycle rallies as examples. Section 3.2.404A makes it unlawful to conduct, promote, manage or solicit attendance at a special event without first obtaining a permit or reservation from the Mayor.

Applications must be filed 90 to 365 days before the event (reservations can be locked in up to five years out at the Mayor's discretion) and must include organizer contact information, the date, time and venue, a traffic plan, sanitation and cleanup arrangements, a medical plan, proof of insurance and a surety bond (3.2.406A–B). The Mayor must act no later than 180 days before the event and may deny a permit that poses a danger to public health, safety or welfare, weighing factors such as insufficient safety staffing, sanitation, parking mitigation, or a history of unpermitted or noncompliant events (3.2.407A, C).

When insurance is required, coverage must be primary, name the City as additional insured, and carry at least $500,000 per occurrence with a $1,000,000 aggregate (3.2.408B). Funeral processions, City-run public activities, and picketing or other First Amendment activities without vehicles, animals, fireworks or a required fee are exempt from the permit requirement (3.2.404B).