Warnthepeople.org

Protest Checklist:

Avoid event competition - Don't schedule any event that is close to exams, popular concerts, holidays, or even another protest.
Location - Be visible and choose a familiar place.
Permits - Check with the proper police officials so that you comply with all permit requirements. Ask about noise regulations or the hours for local parks, etc.
Timing - Plan it so that you will have the greatest impact and reach the greatest number of people. Generally, plan for a rally at the convenience of your supporters but before the evening news. If you want to influence a vote, you might want to plan for a time when the Council is just about to vote (and consider staying until after the vote).
Transportation - Determine what is the best way for moving people to the protest site; public transportation is often your best bet. Check the local schedules and times for people to arrive.
Speakers - A celebrity, well-known local activist or public official will make a powerful attraction to your protest, but remember that you (or others directly affected) can also make a powerful speech.
Media Coverage - Be sure to give the media plenty of time -- at least two weeks -- so that they are present to cover your rally. Give them a call a few days before and a reminder call the morning of your rally. Prepare a news release for media distribution.
Crowd Control - Assign people to help the crowd through the rally. These people can help answer logistical questions ("Where do we go after we hit Main Street?") and can help remind participants of the expectations (silence for a vigil, for example) of the event. Draw area maps for crowd control leaders. Make sure everyone knows where to go and when.

Source: Adapted from the 26% Solution. Wendy Shaetzel Lesko, The Activism 2000 Project, and Emanuel Tsourournis II, pp. 76-77.