Wreath Laying Ceremony Permits

 

Placing a wreath at one of the many monuments and memorials on the National Mall and Memorial Parks is a common practice throughout the year, especially around holidays and anniversaries. Organized wreath laying ceremonies that may include equipment setup, speeches, or an audience generally require a permit.

Applying for a Permit

Application Form

Submit an Application for a Permit to Conduct a Demonstration or Special Event in Park Areas (Special Event Permit Application) to the Division of Permits Management in person or mail:

National Mall and Memorial Parks
Division of Permits Management
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20242

Applications can be delivered Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, except during federal holidays or other National Mall & Memorial Parks office closures. Special Event Permit Applications are not accepted via fax or email. Applications are accepted up to one year in advance inclusive of the first day of setup.

Permit applications for locations in the park are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis and are date and time stamped upon arrival for documentation of order received. For timely delivery of applications, dropping off in person or overnighted mail is highly recommended. Normal postal delivery may take 7-10 days to arrive at this location.

Application Processing Cost

A non-refundable application processing cost of $120 is required with the submission of the Special Event Permit Application. Follow the instructions on the application form for submitting a payment by credit card, check, or money order. Credit Card Form (not accepted via email).

Next Steps

A permits specialist will contact you if additional meetings, discussions, or documents are required and continue to walk you through the permit process. A Public Gathering permit must be issued prior to holding the activity in the park.

Things to Know Before Applying

A permits specialist will guide applicants through the permitting process and can also be contacted before applying to answer any questions. Please also review the Permits Resources related to your proposed activity.

Locations and Location-Specific Requirements

Most wreath layings take place at these locations. Contact the Division of Permits Management to discuss any additional potential areas.

Korean War Veterans Memorial Area A

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted in Area A of the Korean War Veterans Memorial. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath at the Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance or statues, while other participants may visit the wreath location at the conclusion of the event. Limited setup may include flags, chairs, and a podium in Area A. Other equipment must be discussed with the permits specialist.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial / Constitution Gardens Area 5

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted on a lawn area between the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Constitution Gardens, including all speeches, ceremonial events, and equipment setup. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath at the Vietnam Veteran Memorial's wall or statues, while other participants may visit the wreath location at the conclusion of the event.

World War II Memorial

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted on the Ceremonial Entrance Plaza of the World War II Memorial. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath to a pillar or arch, while other participants may observe the wreath laying from the ceremony site and visit its location at the conclusion of the event. No organized activity is allowed in the area of the Freedom Wall of Stars.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes. Wreath Laying ceremonies can take place at any site outside of any restricted areas.
No, visitors may lay wreaths at monuments and memorials without a permit if there is not an associated ceremony.
 

QUICKLINKS

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    Permit FAQs

    Check a list of frequently asked questions about permit and the permitting process to help you plan.

Last updated: February 27, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1100 Ohio Drive SW
Washington, DC 20024

Phone:

202-426-6841

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