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Middletown, OH Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions

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

Key Facts

Permit issuer: Chief of Police
Application deadline: 72 hours before parade
Fee: $10.00, waivable for indigency
Decision window: 24 hours after filing
Appeal: To the City Manager
Penalty: Misdemeanor of the first degree

Summary

In the City of Middletown, Ohio, no one may organize or take part in a parade, march or public procession without a parade permit from the Chief of Police. Applications go in at least 72 hours ahead with a $10 fee, and the Chief must act within 24 hours.

§ 644.04 PERMIT REQUIRED. ... (a) No person shall engage or participate in, aid, form or start any parade without first obtaining a parade permit therefor from the Chief of Police. (b) Whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree. ... § 644.05 PERMIT APPLICATIONS; LATE APPLICATIONS; FEE. (a) A person wishing to obtain a parade permit shall file an application with the Chief of Police, on a form provided by the Chief, not less than 72 hours before the date on which the parade is proposed to be conducted. ... (e) A fee of ten dollars ($10.00) to cover the expenses incidental to processing shall be paid by the applicant at the time of the filing of the application. The Chief shall waive the requirement of the application fee upon the showing of proof of indigency of the applicant.

View official code

Full Breakdown

04). 02). 03). 05). The application must list the organizer's contact information, the route, starting and ending points, number of participants and vehicles, start and end times, assembly locations and times, and the parade's purpose. 07). 08). 06).

Violations & Fines

Engaging in or organizing a parade without a permit, or violating the application requirements of § 644.05, is each a misdemeanor of the first degree under Middletown's Parade Ordinance, prosecuted by the City in Middletown Municipal Court.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead must I apply for a parade permit in Middletown, Ohio?

File with the Chief of Police at least 72 hours before the parade date. Late applications are not automatically denied if you show reasonable grounds you could not file sooner, and the Chief may still accept an application filed less than 72 hours out for good cause.

What does a Middletown parade permit application require?

The organizer's name, address and phone, the route and assembly points, start and end times, expected number of people and vehicles, and the parade's purpose, signed and notarized, along with a $10.00 fee unless waived for indigency.

Can the City deny a parade permit?

Yes. The Chief of Police must act within 24 hours and can deny the permit if the parade would substantially disrupt traffic, interfere with fire or police response, or is likely to cause injury, disorder or unreasonable delay. A denied applicant can appeal to the City Manager.

Is a permit required for a funeral procession or picket line?

No. Middletown's Parade Ordinance expressly exempts funeral processions and lawful, orderly picketing on sidewalks that does not violate any other law.

Sources & Official References

[1]Middletown Code of Ordinances § 644.04-644.08

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