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Waukesha updates Independence Day parade application, prohibits campaign signs in parade
Summary
The Parks board approved updates to the Independence Day parade application, adding questions on material distribution and signage and a prohibition on political/campaign signs and participant alcohol/tobacco/drug use during the parade.
The Waukesha City Parks, Recreation & Forestry Board approved revisions to the 2025 Independence Day parade application and related policies on March 31, adding new questions and behavior requirements intended to improve safety and preserve the parade’s celebratory theme.
Mary Bird outlined the changes, which include asking whether units will distribute materials or display signs (to help staff monitor safety and prevent delays), a requirement that vehicle drivers show valid licenses and insurance on request, and a rule prohibiting political or campaign signs within parade entries. Bird said units that do not “reflect the spirit of the parade” or that use campaign material may be barred from future participation.
The policy update also adds language to ban the use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs before, during or after the parade by participants, and asks that parade participants avoid non‑emergency cell‑phone use during the route. Board members discussed prior incidents with campaign materials and reiterated that elected officeholders are welcome to participate but that active campaigns should not use parade entries as a campaign platform.
The board voted to approve the updated application and policies; staff said the changes are designed to improve monitoring and reduce controversy during the parade.
