First Amendment Information

First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, federal regulations recognize that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably managed to protect park resources. The authority to manage these activities is 36 CFR §2.51 and §2.52. The tool used to manage these activities is a Special Use Permit.

First Amendment activities include, but are not limited to:

• Public demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils, etc.

• Religious services

• Distribution and/or sale of printed matter or other message bearing items that are related to the above activities and are not solely commercial in nature

The necessity to obtain a permit to conduct First Amendment activities is determined by the group size and/or location of the proposed activity.

Groups of 25 People or Less

A small group, which is defined by 36 CFR §2.51(b)(1) as a group of “25 people or less,” is not required to obtain a Special Use Permit for First Amendment activity if they are located within a park designated First Amendment location (see below). A permit is required for any group that:

• Wishes to hold a demonstration or distribute and/or sell printed matter somewhere outside of a designated First Amendment area

• Wishes to use equipment (i.e. tables, banners, platforms, etc.) even if it is within a designated area

• Is merely an extension of another group already availing itself of the 25 person small group permit exception

• Wishes to guarantee they will have priority for the use of a location, including the designated First Amendment areas

Larger Groups

A group of more than 25 people is required to obtain a Special Use Permit for First Amendment activities even if they are utilizing a park designated First Amendment site.

To apply for a Special Use Permit, download this application form. 

Once completed, please email it to [e-mail].

There are no fees associated with First Amendment permits.

FIRST AMENDMENT DESIGNATED AREAS MAP

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR SPECIAL USE PERMITS INFORMATION