Location: 1 First St NE, Washington, DC 20543
Venue style: Public plaza · courthouse steps · press coverage
History
The plaza in front of the Supreme Court has been the traditional site for reading decisions aloud to waiting press and public.
Visitor notes
Our rights-explained videos often reference First Amendment rulings decided just inside these steps.
Speech Rules on the Plaza and the Sidewalk
The Supreme Court plaza is one of the most photographed backdrops for civic expression in Washington, but it is not treated the same as an ordinary public park. A federal statute, 40 U.S.C. § 6135, restricts parades, assemblages and the display of flags, banners or devices meant to draw attention to a cause in the Supreme Court building and on its grounds. The Court itself has limited how far that law reaches. In United States v. Grace (1983), the justices held that the ban could not be enforced on the public sidewalks running along the perimeter, because those sidewalks look and function like any other city sidewalk, a traditional public forum.
The elevated marble plaza is a different story. In Hodge v. Talkin (2015), the federal appeals court for the D.C. Circuit upheld the restrictions as applied to the plaza, reasoning that it is part of the courthouse and that the government has an interest in keeping the Court's grounds free of the appearance that it can be swayed by public pressure. In practice, that is why demonstrators, sign-holders and organized groups usually gather on the First Street sidewalk at the foot of the steps rather than on the plaza itself.
Practical tips for visitors and videographers
- Know where the line is. The sidewalk at the edge of the grounds is generally open for expressive activity; the plaza and steps are subject to tighter rules enforced by the Supreme Court Police.
- Expect crowds on decision days. Late in the Court's term, when major opinions are released, press, advocates and onlookers often fill the sidewalk early in the morning.
- Check official sources. The Court's own website lists argument and opinion days, visitor hours and security procedures, which can change without much notice.
- Film respectfully. Recording from public areas is common, but be mindful of other people's safety and of officers' instructions.
For a closer look at the free speech principles behind these rulings, including the public forum doctrine, see our Rights Explained series. You can also browse more locations with civic history in our venues guide. This page is general information, not legal advice; anyone planning an organized event should consult a lawyer or the relevant authorities.