First Amendment

For Your Information

The National Park Service does not have jurisdiction for permitting First Amendment Applications outside of the buildings and grounds owned by the National Park Service. 

 

 

First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations in New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park (36 CFR § 2.51)

The term “demonstrations” includes activities such as picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and other similar forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances. These activities, when conducted by one or more individuals and likely to attract onlookers, are protected under the First Amendment.

 

Who Needs a Permit?

At New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the only designated First Amendment area is the red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people or if the National Park Service determines that additional management is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed materials and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without requesting payment or donations is only permitted in the designated First Amendment area.

 

Who Does Not Need a Permit?

Demonstrations involving 25 people or fewer may take place without a permit the red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden, provided that:

• The location can accommodate the group size. If a larger group or alternate location is needed, a non-fee permit is required.
• The group is not an extension of another group already demonstrating in the park.
• The activity does not unreasonably interfere with other park programs, special events, or permitted demonstrations. The first-come, first-served rule applies, with preference given to permitted groups.
• Hand-carried signs may be used. However, stages, platforms, or structures require a non-fee permit.

If your demonstration meets these criteria, you may gather in the the red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden without a permit. For additional information contact the park Permitting Office.

 

How to Apply

First Amendment permits are free of charge. Organizers should provide reasonable notice (preferably 10 business days) before the proposed event. If there is reason to believe the event may be disrupted or protested, this should be noted in the application.

• Complete the First Amendment application and submit it to the park Permitting Office, via email or USPS mail.
• For more information, visit the park website or contact the Permitting Office.

Download the First Amendment Permit (PDF)

Email the completed form to the park Permitting Office: Email Us

 

Permit Application Process

• Review the park website for specific permit guidelines and requirements.
• Download and complete the permit application.
• Submit your completed application to the Park Permitting Office via email or USPS mail at least 10 days in advance.
• Applications will be reviewed to ensure compliance with park policies and federal regulations.
• You will be notified once your application has been approved or denied.

 

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Designated First Amendment Location

• The red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden.
• A permit is required for groups larger than 25 people.

Note: First Amendment participants may not obstruct traffic or approach visitors outside of the designated area. All participant vehicles must be legally parked.

 

A map of the designated First Amendment area in the red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden.

NPS Photo

Designated First Amendment area in the red brick area to the right of the ramp in the Visitor Center Garden.

NPS Photo

 

Physical Address

33 William Street
New Bedford, MA 02740

Internet & Cellular Access

Public WiFi is not available.

In Downtown New Bedford, cellular service is widely available, and visitors can generally expect reliable coverage from most major carriers. However, please note that the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center does not offer public Wi-Fi. For internet access, many nearby businesses, cafes, and public spaces in the downtown area may provide free Wi-Fi for visitors. We recommend checking with local establishments or using mobile data for connectivity during your visit.

Internet & Cellular Access Details