Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Nashville

Nashville, TN Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

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

Key Facts

Apply
At least 6 days before event
Issued by
Metro Nashville Police Chief
Admin fee
$100 (or $50 outside high-impact area)
Max fine
$50 per violation
Exempt
Funerals, sidewalk groups under 20

Summary

Metro Nashville requires a parade permit from the police chief filed at least six days ahead, with recreational parades needing liability insurance and security.

No person shall parade, unless a parade permit has been obtained from the chief of police, or his/her designee, upon application filed with the chief of police not less than six days before the date on which it is proposed to conduct the parade. Any request for a permit to parade in or upon a park shall be approved by the director of parks and recreation, in accordance with Section 13.24.150. ((Part) of Amdt. 1 to Ord. 89-796, 6/6/89; Ord. 89-796 § 3 (part), 1989)

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 53 | Charter: Republication 9).

Full Breakdown

No one may parade in Metro Nashville without a permit from the chief of police, applied for at least six days before the event. Permits for parks go through the parks director instead. Sidewalk marches or pickets under 20 people, and funeral processions, are exempt; larger sidewalk marches need four days' notice. Recreational parades (footraces, walk-a-thons) must carry liability insurance and hire security and monitors at the organizer's expense. The mayor's office of film and special events charges a $100 administrative fee (or $50 outside the high-impact right-of-way area) to help process applications.

Violations & Fines

Parading or participating without a permit, or violating permit conditions, is a misdemeanor fined up to $50 per violation; police can also revoke a permit before the event for material misrepresentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead must I apply for a Nashville parade permit?
At least six days before the proposed parade date, filed with the chief of police (or the parks director for park parades).
Does a small sidewalk march need a permit?
No: marches confined entirely to the sidewalk with 20 or fewer people are exempt; larger sidewalk groups just give four days' notice.
What happens if I parade without a permit?
It's unlawful and punishable by a fine of up to $50 per violation under the Metro Code.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Nashville

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsSidewalk Dining & CafésSignificant RestrictionsParkletsSignificant RestrictionsCommercial Filming on Public Right-of-WaySome RestrictionsStreet Fair RulesSome RestrictionsBlock Party PermitsSome RestrictionsPark Event PermitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome Restrictions

All Nashville rules

Compare Nashville to another location·View the Tennessee special events & permits overview

Get notified when Parade Permits in Nashville, TN changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.