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Anne Arundel County, MD Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permit required
parades, 500+ gatherings, street closures
Apply
90 days to 1 year ahead
Decision deadline
within 30 days of filing
Late-filed fee
$100, nonrefundable
Violation
Class D civil offense

Summary

Anyone organizing a parade, a gathering of 500 or more people, or another event that closes streets, uses county waters, or draws on extra county services needs an Anne Arundel County special event permit before it happens.

City-specific rules exist: Annapolis has its own parade permits rules that differ from Anne Arundel County's county-level regulations. If you live in Annapolis, check the city-specific page instead.

(a) Required. A person who organizes a special event shall obtain a permit under this title. (b) Duty of venue owner. A venue owner may not allow a special event to occur at the venue if the owner knows or may be reasonably expected to know that the sponsor has not applied for or has not been granted a permit.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-93: County Code is current through May, 2026).

Full Breakdown

The county's Title 11 special-event law covers parades and public assemblies of 500-plus, requiring sponsors to file with the Department 90 days to a year ahead. The county must grant, deny, or request changes within 30 days, and must decide at least 30 days before the event. Permits can be denied for 15 listed reasons, including inadequate traffic or security plans, unpaid County bills, or misrepresentation. Venue owners may not knowingly host an unpermitted event. Events run through the Department of Recreation and Parks are largely exempt unless they still block traffic. Late-filed applications granted a deadline waiver carry a $100, nonrefundable fee, plus reimbursement of the County's actual support costs.

Violations & Fines

Violating this permit article, including running an unpermitted special event, is a Class D civil offense under Anne Arundel County Code § 11-1-105, enforceable by injunction or civil fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a small neighborhood parade need a permit?
Yes. Any march or procession on a public street is a "parade" under § 11-11-101(8), and organizing one requires a special event permit under § 11-11-102(a) regardless of size.
Is there always a fee to apply?
The Code sets a $100 nonrefundable fee only for applications filed late under a granted deadline waiver; sponsors filing the normal 90 days to a year ahead should check current Department fee schedules.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Anne Arundel County

All Anne Arundel County rules

Compare Anne Arundel County to another location·View the Maryland special events & permits overview

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