Charleston City Council Passes First Reading of Protest Ordinance Amendments

The Charleston City Council passed the first reading of amendments to its First Amendment Demonstration Ordinance during a November 10 meeting. The existing 2021 rules require permits for gatherings of more than 25 people, except for spontaneous responses to breaking news within a 48-hour window.

The proposed changes maintain these core requirements but introduce a faster appeals process for denied permits and a content-neutral waiver that exempts specific demonstrations from insurance and special event permit fees. The updated ordinance also includes a new introduction acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest.

Mayor William Cogswell described the amendments as a compromise. However, the American Civil Liberties Union of South Carolina and local activist groups continue to demand a full repeal of the ordinance, arguing the current rules are unconstitutional. The council must review the proposal two more times before final approval, with the next meeting scheduled for November 17.