First Amendment Activities

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution states:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

 

General Information

Streets, parks, and sidewalks have a long-standing tradition of being used for exercising the right to free speech and public debate and assembly. The National Park System offers visitors the opportunity to engage in demonstration activity while managing the activity to protect park resources and values. Demonstrations are defined in 36 CFR 2.51 as:

…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. This term does not include casual park use by visitors or tourists that is not reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers.

When is a permit needed?

Individuals or groups planning to hold a demonstration at the park are encouraged to contact the park in advance to discuss the proposed activity. Contact Us

The NPS may reasonably regulate certain aspects of First Amendment activities, such as the time when, the place where, and the manner in which the activity is conducted.

The following locations are designated as available for demonstrations. A permit is not required for demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer, provided the activity does not involve stages, platforms, structures, or sound amplification.

• Elizabeth Cady Stanton House - The designated demonstration area is the grassy area located immediately north of the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House.
• Visitor Center / Declaration Park - The designated demonstration area is the area adjacent to the Visitor Center within Declaration Park. From May through October, the designated area is located on the west side of the Stands. From November through April, the designated area is the paved area south of the Wesleyan Chapel, as shown on the maps below.
• M’Clintock House - The designated demonstration area is the southeast grassy area of the M’Clintock House, as depicted on the map below.

Demonstration activities must remain within the boundaries shown on the map and may not impede access to buildings, walkways, parking areas, emergency routes, or visitor circulation.

How do I apply for a permit?

Permit applications are available through our administrative office and website, at Permits & Reservations. You should submit a completed application to the park as far in advance of your planned date as possible, but not more than one year prior to the planned demonstration.

Applications will be accepted by email, USPS mail, or hand-delivered.

What fees will I have to pay?

The National Park Service will not impose requirements for cost recovery, insurance, bonding, and conditions requiring financial expenditure by the permittee. Participants in First Amendment activities are not subject to entrance fees.

Permit Approval

A permit for First Amendment activities under 36 CFR 2.51 must be issued or denied within 10 business days of receipt of a complete application. You will be notified in writing.

If your application is approved, you will be sent a draft permit to review and sign. Return the signed draft permit to the park for the superintendent’s signature. A permit signed by the superintendent will be returned to you. You must have this copy with you during your permitted activity.

 

First Amendment Area for Declaration Park

NPS

First Amendment Area - Declaration Park at Women's Rights National Historical Park

 

First Amendment area of the Stanton House property.

NPS

First Amendment Area - Elizabeth Cady Stanton House at Women's Rights National Historical Park

 

First Amendment Area of the M'Clintock House

NPS

First Amendment Area - M'Clintock House at Women's Rights National Historical Park