Wilmington, DE Special Events & Permits: Parade Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes, from the director
- Filing window
- 5 to 60 days ahead
- Fee
- $3.00
- Director decision time
- 3 days after filing
- Max fine
- $100.00, or 30 days jail
Summary
Wilmington requires a parade permit for any parade, march or procession on city streets, filed at least five days ahead for a $3.00 fee.
No person shall engage in, participate in, aid, form or start any parade, unless a parade permit shall have been obtained from the director. ... There shall be paid at the time of filing an application for a parade permit a fee of $3.00.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
Under the city's Parade Ordinance, no one may engage in, participate in, aid, form or start a parade without a permit from the director. Applications go to the director between 5 and 60 days before the event, cost $3.00, and must detail the route, times, assembly area, and organizer contact information. The director must act within three days and can deny, modify, or approve the route. Funeral processions, school activities, and government agencies are exempted.
Violations & Fines
Violating the ordinance or any permit condition is punishable by a fine of $50 to $100, imprisonment up to 30 days, or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead must I apply for a Wilmington parade permit?
What does a Wilmington parade permit cost?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wilmington
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