Everett, WA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Threshold
- 25+ persons on right-of-way
- Permit authority
- City clerk, EMC Chapter 5.136
- Large-event lead time
- 90 days before event
- Base fee (100+ people)
- $250, CPI-adjusted
Summary
Everett requires a special event permit for any parade or organized assembly of 25 or more people on a public right-of-way, issued and coordinated by the city clerk under EMC Chapter 5.136.
“Special event” means: 1. Any organized formation, parade, procession, or assembly consisting of twenty-five or more persons, or any number of persons if traveling in unison on any right-of-way in a manner that does not comply with current traffic regulations or controls, or will result in obstruction of sidewalks or other designated pedestrian paths... or will impact or request the provision of governmental services in response thereto.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4194-26, passed July 29, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under EMC 5.136.030, a "special event" expressly includes any organized formation, parade, procession, or assembly of twenty-five or more persons on a city right-of-way, or any group whose activity does not comply with traffic controls or obstructs sidewalks. EMC 5.136.040 bars conducting or managing such an event without a permit issued by the city clerk, who coordinates review with the police, fire, and public works departments. Large events expecting 100 or more attendees must file at least ninety calendar days in advance; the base permit fee is $250 for 100-or-more-participant events, adjusted annually to the Seattle-area CPI-U.
Violations & Fines
Holding a parade or assembly of 25 or more people on Everett streets without a permit is a class 1 civil infraction carrying a $250 penalty, or a misdemeanor if done intentionally, under EMC 5.136.300 and 5.136.310.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a parade in Everett need a city permit?
How far ahead must a parade organizer apply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Everett
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Parade Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Snohomish County handle parade permits.