Demonstration and distribution of printed matter within Missouri National Recreational River (36 C.F.R. § 2.51 and 36 C.F.R 2.52)
The term “demonstrations” includes demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd of onlookers.
The term “printed matter” means message-bearing textual printed material such as books, pamphlets, magazines, and leaflets, provided that it is not solely commercial advertising. The term “other message-bearing items” means a message-bearing item that is not “printed matter” and is not solely commercial advertising. Other message-bearing items include, but are not limited to: Readable electronic media such as CDs, DVDs, and flash drives; clothing and accessories such as hats and key chains; buttons; pins; and bumper stickers.
Missouri National Recreational River offers two (2) designated locations where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment (FA) rights through a demonstration or by distributing printed material. Each location is available for groups, 25 or less without a permit. Multiple groups may use the designated areas at the same time, unless the area cannot accommodate multiple group occupancy. If this occurs the group will be directed to another available, designated area within the park.
A no cost permit is required for groups over 25 people or other situations described below. Applications must be submitted no more than one year in advance of the proposed activity; applications will be responded to within ten days of receipt of a fully, complete application. Permits may be issued for 14 consecutive days; new applications must be submitted for extension requests; extensions will be issued in 14 day increments, but may be denied if other groups are already permitted for the same time and location, if the area can not accommodate multiple occupancy.
Who Needs a Permit?
Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within designated First Amendment areas, provided that:
- The location can accommodate the group size (see maps and details below). If a different location is requested because of activity or group size, a non-fee permit is required;
- Your group is not an extension of another group already demonstrating in another area of the park;
- They will not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations, special events, or park program activities; site use is granted on a first come-first serve basis with preference given to the permit holder;
- Hand-carried signs may be used. Stages, platforms, or structures require a non-fee permit.
If you have questions, please contact the Special Use Permits Coordinator.
How To Apply
Download and fill out the
First Amendment Activities and Demonstrations Permit Application.
To submit your application, you may
e-mail us (preferred) or mail the application to:
Missouri National Recreational River
Attn: Special Use Permit Coordinator
508 E 2nd St
Yankton, SD 57078
Designated First Amendment Locations
