Free speech and peaceful assembly, e.g. protests, rallies
The United States Constitution under the First Amendment as well as the Colorado State Constitution under the Article II Section 24, guarantee the right of individuals to peacefully assemble. This includes the right to hold meetings, sit-ins, strikes, marches, rallies, demonstrations, events or protests.
In the City of Colorado Springs, you do not need to contact City government or obtain a permit to hold a peaceful assembly in public places to make your voice heard. It's important to note that all people, regardless of message, share these same rights.
Peaceful assembly limitations
- Individuals at peaceful assemblies cannot obstruct access to buildings (public or private) or interfere with the property’s intended use by other citizens.
- Individuals at peaceful assemblies cannot block or obstruct traffic by walking or marching in roadways without first obtaining a special event permit.
- Individuals at peaceful assemblies cannot obstruct sidewalks so as interfere with another person’s use and passage on the sidewalks.
- Individuals at peaceful assemblies cannot damage City-owned or private property.
A gathering will be determined to be unlawful by law enforcement when there are acts of violence or property damage or an environment that is a threat to public safety. For further information about City Ordinances, please see the Colorado Springs City Code.
Speech and assembly on private property
While the government cannot limit your speech on your own property or private property with the property owner’s permission, it’s important to note that private property owners have the authority to set rules regarding speech and assembly on their property.
Photography/videography
When you are lawfully in a public space, you have the right to photograph anything in plain view, including public buildings and law enforcement. On private property, the property owner may impose rules about photography or videography that occurs on their property.
Special event permits
To learn more about the City’s permitting process for special events (e.g. a parade or march on City streets), including if a permit is need, or to file a request for a permit, please refer to the City's Office of Special Events.
Comment at public meetings
The City of Colorado Springs values public input. If you would like to submit a public comment on a specific City Council agenda item or speak at a City Council meeting, please visit the City Council Meetings page for information. Public comment can also be made to any of the City's Boards, Commissions & Committees.
Contact your elected City officials
Colorado Springs Police Department Liaison Officer Program
The Colorado Springs Police Department Liaison Officer Program attempts to work with all event organizers planning a peaceful assembly to establish an environment where community members may safely practice their First Amendment Rights of speech and assembly.