Ridgecrest, CA Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit authority
- City Manager
- Application window
- 45 to 365 days ahead
- Small parade exemption
- 40 or fewer marchers
- Liability insurance
- $1,000,000 minimum coverage
- Appeal body
- City Council
Summary
Ridgecrest requires a special event permit from the city manager for any parade on city property or streets, filed with the city clerk 45 to 365 days ahead; small marches of 40 or fewer walkers are exempt.
(a)Any person or organization desiring to conduct or sponsor a parade, athletic event, or other special event on city property, including streets, shall obtain a special event permit from the city manager. ... (c)A special event permit is not required for: ... (3)Parades involving a total of 40 or fewer pedestrians marching or walking along a parade route if the participants march or walk on sidewalks and cross streets only at pedestrian crosswalks in units of 15 or less in accordance with traffic regulations.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6).
Full Breakdown
Under Article III of Chapter 14, anyone sponsoring a parade must get a special event permit from the city manager before the event; participating in a known unpermitted event is also barred. Applicants file a verified application with the city clerk 45 to 365 days ahead, pay a nonrefundable fee, and post at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance naming the city as additional insured. The city manager may deny or condition the permit on grounds like traffic disruption or safety, with appeal to the city council.
Violations & Fines
Sponsoring or knowingly joining a parade without an issued permit violates § 14-93; the city manager may also revoke a permit for violating its conditions, subject to appeal to the city council.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small march in Ridgecrest?
How far ahead must I apply for a parade permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ridgecrest
California rules heatmap·Compare Ridgecrest to another location·View the California special events & permits overview
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Parade Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Kern County handle parade permits.