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

Chapter 123 dates to 1925 and was amended in 1989 to require the permit from the Township Manager/Secretary at least 48 hours before the time set for the event. It reaches any person, association, organization or corporation that holds, conducts or participates in a public parade or other outdoor demonstration, meeting or gathering for any and all purposes.

Section 123-2 requires a written application on the form the Township Manager/Secretary furnishes, filed with the Secretary of the Board of Commissioners. It must state the purpose, the exact time and place, and how long the event will probably continue. The applicant agrees to abide by every condition in the permit and to obey all rules adopted by the Board of Commissioners. For a parade, the applicant specifies the starting place, the exact route by enumerating the portions of streets and highways to be traversed, the probable number of participants, the number of horses, if any, and the number and character of vehicles. Permit fees are fixed by resolution of the Board of Commissioners and can be amended from time to time.

Section 123-3 sets the findings required before approval. The Township Manager/Secretary must find that the event will not unduly interfere with the peace and quiet of the neighborhood or public travel on the streets, that its purpose is lawful, that the organizers are responsible law-abiding citizens, and that it will not endanger the safety of persons or property in the township. The Manager/Secretary designates which streets can be used and imposes conditions deemed necessary for peace, quiet and safety.

Gatherings inside Township parks have a parallel rule: § 126-5 requires a permit from the Township Secretary for parties or gatherings in excess of 15 persons, and § 126-9 requires the application at least 24 hours ahead.