Want To Protest? Get A Permit: Lawrenceville Police

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA — The police department of Gwinnett’s county seat announced Tuesday it will require standard permits for future demonstrations and public gatherings.

Lawrenceville’s Parades and Assemblies Ordinance is nothing new, but city police had been enforcing it with a light touch in the wake of Black Lives Matter and the protests that followed.

“During these times, we at the Lawrenceville Police Department have done everything in our power to help support those who wish to share their opinions with the public, while maintaining public safety,” the department wrote on its Facebook page to “residents and visitors.”

But now, the post continues, it’s time for the city to “return to our normal operations” in order to balance free speech against public safety while ensuring “the proper allocation of city resources.”

In addition to requiring protesters to get permits, the Lawrenceville Police Department said it would also enforce ordinances against blocking roadways.

“We are committed to upholding the rights of those who wish to be heard, while protecting the safety of all,” the department said.

Mayor David Still said Wednesday that he supported the department and its efforts "as the best way to promote public safety through a standard approval process.”

Applications to permit public assemblies are available at the Lawrenceville city website. For more information, call 678-407-6653.

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