Jefferson Parish, LA Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances Chapter 26, Article I regulates fairs, circuses and festivals that use amusement attractions or amusement rides anywhere in the parish. Under Sec. 26-2, it is unlawful to conduct a fair, exhibition, show, circus performance or other amusement event without first obtaining a permit from the Department of Citizens' Affairs, and the application window is fixed: no more than 90 days and no less than 30 days before the event. Sec. M. Best rating of B+ or better, in an amount of not less than $1,000,000, insuring against injuries to persons using the rides or attractions.

The grounds where the event will be held are also subject to inspection by the department. Sec. 26-4 caps how long a permit can run: no fair permit may be granted for more than 10 days, though if weather forces a full or partial cancellation, the department can approve alternate days equal to the number lost, and those makeup days must fall within 30 days of the canceled dates. Sec. 26-5 restricts location: no fair may be held less than 300 feet from a residential area, except that church and school fairs held on the grounds of the church or school itself are exempt from that buffer.

The chapter defines 'fair' as an enterprise offering amusement in, upon, or by means of amusement attractions or rides, and 'festival' the same but without rides, so a straight street festival without midway rides still falls under this article whenever it uses an amusement attraction as defined in Sec. 26-1.