DeSoto staff: peaceful demonstrations do not require a special‑event permit; council asks staff to clarify web guidance

Police Chief Joe Costa briefed the council April 14 on how the city’s existing code treats planned and unplanned protests. Costa reviewed the city code language for special events and assemblies and told council that a “peaceful demonstration at a fixed location” is exempt from the city’s special‑event permit requirement.

Costa reviewed the code definitions that govern special events and assemblies and noted that unlawful assemblies, disorderly conduct and other violations remain enforceable. “Planned or unplanned, we don’t have a special permit if it’s going to be a peaceful presentation,” Costa said, adding that the department will reach out to organizers when it becomes aware of an event to discuss safety and public‑safety coordination.

Council members asked staff to draft clearer explanatory language for the city website and a short Q&A that explains: whether and when a permit is required, how to notify the city, steps organizers should take if they expect to use public rights‑of‑way or request street closures, and how the department distinguishes lawful demonstrations from unlawful assemblages. Several council members stressed that the goal is to make the process transparent and to avoid imposing a permit requirement that would interfere with First Amendment rights.

Chief Costa said the department will continue to engage organizers proactively when it becomes aware of events and will work with the city manager and code services to post clearer guidance for residents on the city website.

Ending: Council did not adopt any ordinance changes at the meeting; staff were directed to prepare plain‑language website guidance and a frequently asked questions page about demonstrations and special events.