Haverford, PA Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Haverford Township Code, Chapter 47, Article II (Circuses and Carnivals), is the part of the code that governs fair-style events with an admission price. Section 47-9(A) bars any show or carnival, exhibition or performance where a price of admission is charged unless the organizer holds a Township license. The Chief of Police grants it, on payment of sums set by resolution of the Board of Commissioners. Section 47-10(A) waives the license fee for a Haverford Township organization that represents to the Chief of Police that net proceeds go exclusively to religious, educational, civic or charitable purposes, but that organization still deposits $200 with the Township Treasury, returned on satisfactory evidence that the proceeds were or will be applied to such a purpose.

Section 47-10 sets the operating conditions. An applicant must show proof of ample off-street parking, defined as one off-street parking space for every 50 square feet of lot or building space devoted to the use. Outdoor shows and carnivals cannot operate after 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, or after 12:00 midnight on Friday or Saturday. The event must employ or retain adequate security personnel and adequate traffic control personnel to direct traffic and cross patrons over any major road, each as determined by the Chief of Police. Sound amplification equipment is unlawful at an event within 1,000 feet of a residential district.

Free community events run through a different chapter. Section 123-1 makes it unlawful to hold a public parade or other outdoor demonstration, meeting or gathering without a permit from the Township Manager/Secretary obtained at least 48 hours beforehand, and § 123-3 lets the Manager/Secretary designate streets and impose conditions for peace, quiet and safety. The Chapter A187 fee schedule lists a block party permit at $35 and a music festival over 1,000 people at $150. Section 47-9(A) and § 47-10 do not mention food or merchandise vendors by name.