First Amendment

First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations at the Niobrara National Scenic River (36 CFR § 2.51)

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 or onlookers.

The Niobrara National Scenic River offers one designated location where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment (FA) rights through demonstrations.This FA location will only accommodate one group at a time. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people, to reserve a FA location or if the National Park Service deems further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donation, is allowed within park areas if it occurs in designated areas.

According to the Superintendent's Compendium, our FA designated location is "in the parking lot of the Visitor Center building next to the flag pole."

Who Needs a Permit?

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within designated park areas, provided that:

• The location can accommodate the group size (see maps and details below).
• 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, but stages, platforms, or structures may not be used.

How to Apply

First Amendment Permits are free of charge and can be valid up to 7- 14 days at a time. The organizer is requested to provide reasonable notice (preferably 10 business days) of the proposed event to the Special Use Permit Office, including whether there is any reason to believe that there may be an attempt to disrupt, protest, or prevent the activity. Applications must be submitted to the Visitor Center in person or emailed to [e-mail].
The link below will begin a download of the Special Use Permit application in .docx format.

• Special Use Permit Application