Pittsburgh Police Prepare for St. Patrick's Day Parade

Chief Lando says officers will be out in force to ensure public safety

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Pittsburgh's police chief, Jason Lando, has detailed the department's plans to ensure public safety during the city's upcoming St. Patrick's Day parade. Lando said a significant number of officers will be on patrol, with a higher concentration in areas that attract large crowds. The public is being asked to remain vigilant and use QR codes to report any suspicious activity that is not an emergency.

Why it matters

The St. Patrick's Day parade is one of Pittsburgh's biggest annual celebrations, drawing thousands of revelers downtown. With tensions high around the country and overseas, the police department is taking extra precautions to maintain public safety and security during the event.

The details

Pittsburgh Public Safety said it's preparing to have a significant number of officers on patrol and is working hand-in-hand with fire, EMS and emergency management. Chief Lando said officers have had to shift their schedules to ensure a visible presence, especially in high-traffic areas like downtown, the South Side, and the North Shore. The public is being encouraged to use QR codes to report any suspicious activity that is not an immediate emergency.

  • The parade will kick off at 10 a.m. on March 17, 2026.
  • No parking signs will be posted along the parade route 48 hours in advance, with tagging and towing beginning overnight on Friday, March 13.

The players

Jason Lando

Chief of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, responsible for overseeing the department's security plans for the St. Patrick's Day parade.

Sheldon Williams

Director of Pittsburgh Public Safety, encouraging the public to play an active role in their own safety and the safety of others during the parade.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We do have a number of officers that are on overtime. Some have had to shift their schedules around, but for us, we have to make sure that we're out there, we're visible, and we're ready to respond.”

— Jason Lando, Pittsburgh Police Chief (cbsnews.com)

“If you see something that doesn't feel right, if you see something that's suspicious, please say something.”

— Jason Lando, Pittsburgh Police Chief (cbsnews.com)

“The Department of Public Safety encourages everyone to have fun this St. Patrick's Day weekend, but to also play an active role in your own safety and the safety of others.”

— Sheldon Williams, Pittsburgh Public Safety Director (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The Pittsburgh Police Department will continue to monitor the situation and adjust their security plans as needed in the days leading up to the parade.

The takeaway

Pittsburgh's police force is taking a proactive approach to public safety for the city's St. Patrick's Day parade, with a focus on visible patrols, communication with the public, and preparedness to respond to any incidents. The goal is to ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities while prioritizing security and safety.