Paterson, NJ Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- License fee
- $175 per day
- Max run
- 5 consecutive days
- Repeat limit
- 1 per type/year/location
- Exemptions
- weddings, religious services, reunions
- Issued by
- City Council/Licensing Division
Summary
Paterson requires a $175-per-day Council license before any bazaar, carnival, circus, festival, or picnic that charges admission or sells goods can operate.
No person shall conduct a bazaar, carnival, circus, festival or picnic where an admission fee is charged or goods or food is sold without first having obtained a license as hereafter provided in this chapter. A license under this chapter shall not be required for the following events:
A. Weddings.
B. The annual Easter egg hunt.
C. Jazz festivals and symphonies.
D. Religious services.
E. Family reunions.
F. House tours.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4713536; v19 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 129 requires a City Council-issued license before anyone runs a bazaar, carnival, circus, festival, or picnic that charges admission or sells food or goods (§ 129-2). Applications go through the Licensing Division and cost $175 per day (§ 129-4). No license runs more than five consecutive days, and the same type of event can be held only once per year at a given location (§ 129-3). Organizers must also show proof of insurance naming the city as additional insured plus security and medical-personnel coverage before the license issues.
Violations & Fines
Fine up to $1,000, imprisonment up to 90 days, or up to 90 days community service; each day an unlicensed event runs is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a street festival in Paterson?
How much does a Paterson event license cost?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
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