First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. The necessity of a permit to conduct First Amendment activities is determined by the group size.

A small group is defined as "25 people or less." A "small group" is not required to obtain a First Amendment Permit if they are located within a park designated First Amendment site and have no more than leaflets, booklets and/or hand held signs. A permit is required for any small group that:

a. wants to hold a demonstration or distribute and/or sell printed matter somewhere outside a designated First Amendment area.
b. wants to use equipment (i.e. tables, banners, platforms, etc.) even if it is within a designated area.
c. is merely an extension of another group already availing itself of the 25 person maximum.
d. wants to guarantee they will have priority for the use of a location, including the designated First Amendment areas.

A large group is defined as "more than 25 people" and is required to obtain a First Amendment Permit even if they are utilizing a park designated First Amendment site.

Some examples of special events that fall under First Amendment Rules:

• distribution and/or sale of printed matter
• religious services
• public demonstrations or assemblies, etc.

There are no permit fees associated with First Amendment permits.  Print an Application form Mail or drop-off completed forms to: 

Superintendent
Petroglyph National Monument
6001 Unser Blvd. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120                    

The current First Amendment areas are:

1)     (for 25 or fewer people) under the large shade structure in the Rinconada Canyon Day Use Area parking lot, one mile south of the Las Imágines Visitor Center, and

2)     (for more than 25 people) north of Gate #15 at the entrance to the old road to Vulcan at the Volcano Day Use Area.

       Contact the Chief of Resource Protection at 505-899-0205 x233 more information about Designated First Amendment sites or the application process.