In the interest of ensuring the public’s safety and freedom of travel, the Newark municipal code regulates certain public gatherings and activities that involve large numbers of people. These may include, but are not necessarily limited to, public assemblies, parades, foot races, bicycle races, walking events, demonstrations, block parties, fairs, festivals, and concerts. Depending upon the nature of the event, it may or may not require a permit. Several factors may affect this requirement, such as the number of people involved, the location, the impact on traffic, and whether any fee or donation is charged. 

If you have any questions regarding the permit process, please feel free to contact the Special Enforcement Division Commander at (302) 366-7100 option 7, then option 4 or by email.

Completed forms can be submitted to policeforms@newark.de.us..

Additional information can be found in this brochure.  The relevant municipal code can be found here.

Parking issues, including residential parking permits, are not handled by the Police Department.  Contact the City of Newark Parking Division.

Event Types

BLOCK PARTIES

Any organized gathering of neighborhood residents utilizing the public right-of-way abutting their property for recreational purposes of a non-profit or noncommercial nature that requires the temporary closing of public streets requires a permit issued by the Chief of Police.  A minimum of five (5) days notice is required.

Additional information and requirements can be found on the Block Party Permit Application.

PARADES and DEMONSTRATIONS

All parades, processions, and demonstrations require a permit issued by the Chief of Police.  A minimum of 24 hours notice is required.

The Newark municipal code prohibits all parades during the following times: 

• Monday - Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
• Monday - Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Additional information and requirements can be found on the Parade Permit Application.

SPECIAL EVENTS (including 5K runs)

Any gathering of people for social, charitable, entertainment, sporting, religious, or commercial purposes that will affect the ordinary use of public streets, rights-of-way, and/or sidewalks, regardless of whether the event will occur on private property or in public arenas requires a permit issued by the Chief of Police. 

This definition includes, but is not limited to, fairs, festivals, concerts, foot races, bicycle races, and walking events. University-sponsored events and private social gatherings are not included. 

“Private social gatherings” means any event which is exclusively contained on private property and makes no use of city streets, other than for lawful parking. A social gathering shall not be 'private' if a fee or donation is charged for admission or food or beverage and/or if there are more than 150 persons reasonably expected to attend.

A minimum of thirty (30) days notice is required.

Additional information and requirements can be found on the Special Event Permit Application.