Thousands risk fines for celebrating Coronation if they hold royal street parties without permission

Thousands of people could face fines for celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III next weekend if they hold street parties without getting permission from their local council, the public is being warned.

Many royal fans are planning a day of celebration over the bank holiday weekend, organising informal street get-togethers or large-scale neighbourhood events.

With less than a week to go until King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla are anointed in Westminster Abbey, final preparations are underway across the country.

But to avoid risking a hefty penalty, street party organisers must have applied to the council for a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order to close the road – or they could be breaking the law.

Those who fail to apply for the order could face a fine or up to 51 weeks in prison.

There is less than a week to go until the King’s Coronation ceremony on Saturday

The government recommends requesting a road closure six weeks in advance of the planned party – although there is no legal deadline, so those without permission can still request it from their council now.

Some councils may charge for road closures or for administrative fees, but the Local Government Association (LGA) tells councils they should make the process cost-free for the Coronation, saying: ‘benefits vastly outweigh admin costs.’

A statement adds: ‘Street parties are a great way to bring neighbours together to get to know each other better. 

‘There is lots of research to show that these informal, resident-led events have a positive and lasting impact on the communities that take part. 

‘They can help reduce isolation and loneliness, strengthen community spirit and civic pride and bring people of different ethnic backgrounds together. 

Some councils may charge for road closures or for administrative fees, but the Local Government Association (LGA) tells councils they should make the process cost-free for the Coronation (Pictured: Platinum Jubilee party in June 2022)

‘They also offer a good opportunity to bring together communities for fundraising for local, national and International good causes.’

Although residents may fear the consequences if they have not applied for permission in time, it is understood that there is no particular enforcement guidance which has been issued ahead of the weekend.

A source told the Sun that no action will be taken unless events become a ‘nuisance’, or more than 500 people turn up where alcohol is being sold.

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove told the paper: ‘Street parties should be encouraged.

‘I look forward to the creative ways which you and your communities choose to mark the coronation.’

He also urged councils to offer complete flexibility when it comes to road closures.

The LGA advised councils to make the application process ‘clear, simple and accessible’ and to minimise the turnaround time when dealing with applications.