Newark, NJ Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Chapter 5:10 defines a FAIR as an exhibition and sale of agricultural, industrial, household and manufactured products coupled with amusements, entertainment and educational displays, and a FESTIVAL as a feasting, celebration, religious ceremony or series of performances with music and entertainment, expressly excluding block parties. A CARNIVAL adds one or more amusement rides operated with sideshows, shooting galleries or games of chance, though fun houses and haunted houses are barred outright from any Newark carnival. Under the § 5:10-3(c) fee table, a Carnival, Fair or Festival permit costs $500 plus $250 for each additional day, on top of the standard $50 processing fee.

Section 5:10-5(c)(4)(b) requires, if applicable, an affidavit from the property owner authorizing use of the premises for the carnival, street fair or street festival, and § 5:10-5(c)(4) also calls for a site plan showing vendor locations, electrical connections and sanitary facilities. Any vendor selling merchandise or food at the fair separately falls under Title 8's hawking and peddling rules, and food vendors must also meet Title 13's food code and the fire prevention code if cooking equipment is involved. Organizers carry the same $1,000,000 liability policy and hold-harmless agreement required of other Special Events, and must arrange recyclables separation and drop-off at the City's Recycling Depot on Miller Street.