Fontana, CA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Sec. 17-5 requires anyone organizing or participating in a public meeting, assembly, rally, demonstration or parade of 50 or more people on a public street, sidewalk or place to first obtain a city permit. Applications must be filed with the city manager at least 14 calendar days in advance, or 90 calendar days ahead if the event requires closing a public street, and must include the organizer's contact information, the purpose, date, times, routes and detour plans, participant and vehicle counts, sound equipment, any temporary structures, and electrical or lighting equipment.

Applicants must agree to indemnify the city, cover departmental service charges, and post cash, a bond or a letter of credit in an amount set by council resolution. Route distance is capped at one and one-half miles and official entries such as floats, marching bands and equestrians at 150 units; no person may carry a weapon or use lumber, metal or bottles as a weapon at the event. Exemptions cover community services department athletic events, block parties (regulated separately by council resolution), funeral processions, park-permitted activities under Chapter 19, and co-sponsored events.

The city manager must issue or deny the permit within 14 days and can deny only for specified findings such as false information, traffic or public-safety danger, or scheduling conflicts; denials can be corrected by altering date, time, route or size rather than outright refusal. Appeals go to the city clerk within two calendar days of the denial notice, with the city council required to act at the next meeting held seven to 14 days later.