Public processions, marches and demonstrations

Code of conduct for public processions

28 days notice of intention to hold a procession must be given, including names of bands where appropriate
no band shall play before 7.30am or later than 9.00pm.
sufficient identifiable stewards must be provided – a ratio of 1 steward to 10 participants.
have due regard to the rights, traditions and feelings of others in the vicinity of the procession, particularly in areas where there has previously been public disorder around processions of a similar nature.
behave with due respect at 'sensitive' areas such as places of worship.
refrain from using words or behaviour which could reasonably be perceived as being deliberately aggressive (for example threatening, abusive, homophobic, sectarian or racist.)
obey the direction of procession organisers, stewards and the Police at all times.
keep to the designated route as directed by the Police.
refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs prior to or during the procession.
do not display flags relating to illegal organisations or which are likely to cause offence.
disperse in good order as soon as the procession concludes.
ensure that where appropriate the procession is split into sections in order to avoid serious dislocation of traffic and to facilitate the crossing of pedestrians who have a right of free access and passage to or through any public area.
ensure that all participants comply with directions regarding their own safety and that of members of the public.
ensure that all participants do not march more than 4 abreast, keeping to the near or left hand side of the street (except on one way streets where they will keep to the right).
the band or bands taking part shall cease to play when approaching and passing places of worship while services are in progress.
ensure all participants disperse after the procession concludes.
no halberds or weapons of any description shall be carried.
no obstruction shall be caused.
the instructions of the Police shall be obeyed.
the conditions of Section 62 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 in relation to the use of loudspeakers shall be observed.
the terms of the Public Order Act 1936 in relation to the prohibition of the wearing of uniforms signifying association with any political organisations etc shall be observe.