Recently I was in downtown Philadelphia and observed some protesters who were demonstrating on the streets. They had tables set up. And they also had microphones and bull-horns that they were speaking through. There was a large crowd of spectators gathered around them watching. This situation led me to want to hold poetry recitals in public, on city streets and other places where large crowds gather.

But I'm not sure about the legality of this: do I need a permit? Do I need to let the government know what I plan on doing? I should mention that I will not be protesting anything. I'll simply just be reciting poetry along with a few other poets. I believe something like this is good for the public, good for the cultural life of the city, etc. I feel as though I should be able to do something like this any time I want, in any public place, without needing permission or a permit, as long as I'm not creating a disturbance or dangerous situation.

Can somebody please give me some insight on this? Also, I would like to have a jar at the location where the spectators can put money in if they choose to. The protesters I observed had a jar that was filled with money. The money I wish to collect will be for a non-profit organization. Any help is appreciated. Thank you.

Hello r:

I don't see any problem... What you want to do is Constitutionally protected. It doesn't even have to be a non-profit organization.

Having said that, some cities have busker regulations, and that's what you'd be. I'd check with your county license issuing agency.

excon

If you were in Atlanta, you would have to have two permits, one to have a public display, and another to ask for money.

Normally you are going to have to post a fee to cover clean up and other issues.