Memphis Parade Security Plan Requirements

Events and Special Uses Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee requires organizers of parades and public processions to submit a security plan with certain parade permit applications. This guide explains the typical plan elements, who reviews and enforces requirements in Memphis, where to submit documents, and practical steps to reduce delays when applying for a parade permit.

Who reviews parade security plans

The City of Memphis Special Events office coordinates permit intake and routing to reviewing agencies. The Memphis Police Department typically reviews security plans for public safety, traffic control, and road closures. Expect coordination with Traffic Operations, Fire Rescue, and other departments depending on route and attendance. For official permit information and submission instructions, see the City special events permit page Special Events - City of Memphis[1].

Required elements of a security plan

  • Designated event security manager with contact information.
  • Staffing plan showing number of private security and/or off-duty officers, posting locations, and shift times.
  • Traffic control and street closure diagram with barricade and escort plans.
  • Emergency response and evacuation plan, including first-aid points and liaison to Fire Rescue.
  • Timeline of event activities, setup, and teardown.
  • Communication plan including on-site radios and 24-hour contact.
Submit security plans early to allow MPD and City review time.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of parade permit and security plan requirements is administered by the City of Memphis and the Memphis Police Department. Specific monetary fines, escalations, and statutory penalties for failure to comply are not summarized on the general special events permit page; see the municipal code or contacting the City for exact citations and amounts. The city pages consulted did not list fixed fine amounts or escalation schedules as of the cited pages.[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing violations: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: permit denial, event shutdown, conditions on future permits, and referral to municipal or criminal court are possible based on enforcement discretion.
  • Enforcer and inspection: Memphis Police Department Special Events/Traffic units perform operational reviews and on-site inspections; contact the MPD Public Relations or Special Events liaison for complaints and coordination.MPD official site[2]
  • Appeals and review: procedures and time limits for administrative review or appeal are not specified on the general permit page; request appeal instructions from the issuing City office.

Applications & Forms

The City of Memphis publishes a special events permit application and instructions on the special events page. The permit application covers event details, insurance requirements, and indicates whether a separate security plan is required; fee amounts and submission deadlines are not listed in full on the general page and should be confirmed with the City prior to filing.[1]

If your event involves road closures or alcohol service, confirm additional permits and insurance early.

How-To

  1. Identify event type, estimated attendance, and whether route or street closures are needed.
  2. Draft a security plan addressing staffing, communications, traffic control, and emergency response.
  3. Complete the City special events permit application and attach the security plan and proof of insurance.
  4. Submit materials to the City of Memphis Special Events office for routing to MPD, Fire, and Traffic units.
  5. Respond to reviewer comments, revise the plan if requested, and obtain final written approval before public promotion.
Keep a copy of the approved plan and contact list on-site during the event.

FAQ

Do all parades need a security plan?
Most public parades and processions requiring a City permit will need a security plan; check the special events permit instructions for thresholds and specifics.[1]
Who must review and approve the security plan?
The City of Memphis routes security plans to the Memphis Police Department and other relevant departments for review and approval.[2]
What happens if I run the event without an approved plan?
Running an event without required approvals can lead to permit denial, event shutdown, and other sanctions; exact penalties are not specified on the cited permit guidance page.

Key Takeaways

  • Start security planning early and include clear contact and evacuation procedures.
  • Submit the security plan with your special events permit application to avoid processing delays.
  • Coordinate directly with MPD and the City Special Events office for route and safety approvals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis - Special Events
  2. [2] Memphis Police Department

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data