News Release

National Park Service resumes issuing permits for demonstrations and events in National Capital Parks – East

Date: July 1, 2020
Contact: Vince Vaise, [phone]
Contact: National Capital Area Pemits Office, [phone]

WASHINGTON — The National Park Service’s National Capital Parks – East (NACE) has joined National Mall and Memorial Parks and Rock Creek Park in resuming issuing permits for demonstrations and most other events in Washington, DC. Affected national parkland includes sites in Southwest, Southeast and Northeast Washington, DC, such as parks on Capitol Hill and Anacostia Park. Permitted activities had been suspended since March 20 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“We know people want the opportunity to host events or demonstrate in parks across the District,” Superintendent Tara D. Morrison said. “The permitting process helps ensure we’re able to provide opportunities for groups to assemble and be heard. It also gives us an opportunity to work with applicants to help us protect park resources while ensuring public health and safety.”

The park will accept permit applications for demonstrations, special events, and commercial filming and photography. The park will not issue permits for organized athletic leagues or allow formal gameplay to occur at this time.

Issuing permits allows the National Park Service to share information with organizers as they plan events. Permits spell out the conditions under which events may take place and can require organizers to plan for proper first aid and emergency response, as well as hydration and cooling measures during summer months. According to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, applicants will be encouraged to incorporate COVID-19 preventative measures such as social distancing and wearing of cloth face coverings when social distancing cannot be maintained.

The National Mall Permits Division, which manages permits for National Capital Parks – East, accepts permit applications in person or by mail Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Additional information is available online at go.nps.gov/MallPermits.

Read the Record of Determination:
https://www.nps.gov/nace/learn/management/record-of-determination-for-the-temporary-closure-of-public-facilities-to-prevent-the-spread-of-covid-19.htm

-NPS-