New Brunswick, NJ Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)

Chapter 12.24 of the New Brunswick Municipal Code requires a permit from the city administrator before anyone forms or starts a parade. Section 12.24.010 defines a parade as an assemblage of twenty-five (25) or more persons in an organized procession of any duration along a public street or highway, following a certain route. Funeral processions, students under school supervision and a governmental agency acting within its functions are exempt under § 12.24.020.

The application goes to the city administrator on the city's form at least twenty (20) days before the parade. Section 12.24.030 lists eight items: the chairperson's name, address and telephone number, the sponsoring organization, the date, the route with start and end points, the approximate number of persons, animals and vehicles, the start and finish hours, and any assembly areas by street. The fee is twenty-five dollars ($25.00) and is waived for a not-for-profit organization or corporation and for First Amendment activity. The city administrator can waive the filing period, and a waiver is denied only on a finding that the city cannot provide for legitimate safety and traffic concerns.

First Amendment parades, such as a march, vigil or political assembly, file no later than five business days ahead, and a spontaneous First Amendment event needs no application. The full chapter applies if animals, fireworks or amusement rides are used or alcohol is served.

Section 12.24.031 requires a certified general liability policy naming the city as additional insured, with limits of not less than $1,000,000 for each occurrence. Liquor liability of $1,000,000 is required if alcohol is available, and $2,000,000 each for fireworks and for security guards other than city staff. The certificate must reach the city at least five days before the parade. Most applicants also sign a notarized hold harmless agreement.

The city administrator acts within three days and mails any rejection, with reasons, within three days. Under § 12.24.040 the administrator can offer a different date, time or route, and the applicant has one day to accept. The chairperson carries the permit during the parade under § 12.24.050, and § 12.24.060 lets the chief of police restrict parking along the route with posted signs.