The NPS must determine what types of commercial activities are necessary and appropriate at Big Cypress National Preserve. All commercial activities must operate in a manner that is consistent with the mission of the Preserve and NPS. That is to say, all commercial activities operating within the Preserve should provide high quality visitor experiences while protecting important natural, cultural, and scenic resources. The 1991 General Management Plan and other planning documents identified the Preserve mission or purpose to provide and protect, in perpetuity, the natural, scenic, hydrologic, and recreational values and cultural resources.
Operating any type of commercial visitor service within Big Cypress National Preserve without written authorization from the United States is a violation of Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations. It is a citable offense. If you are in doubt, please contact the Big Cypress National Preserve either by mail, telephone, or in person.
Right of First Refusal
There are two federally recognized tribes residing within and near the Preserve – The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. In order to ensure the rights provided by Congress to the recognized Tribes, before entering into any contract or agreement to provide new visitor services, including Commercial Use Authorizations, the NPS will offer the right of first refusal to each of the Tribes. More...
Authorized Services and Limitations
Application Schedule
Application and Requirements
Commercial Operator Training
If you have questions related to commercial visitor services within the Preserve click here to email.
