Permits are required to bring groups to the islands. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) requires all groups with more than 25 members to submit a Recreational Use Permit prior to the day of the expedition. There is a nominal processing fee associated with the permit.

Information you must identify in the permit includes the contact information of the group leader, school name, number of participants and departure times and location. Completion of the permit should take less than 10 minutes. An example of a completed DCR permit is available for your review:

» DCR Recreational Use Permit (PDF - 92kb)
» DCR Recreational Use Permit Sample (PDF - 132kb)
» Permit Instructions (PDF - 22kb) 

To obtain a use permit contact the Group Permit Coordinator with DCR at (781) 740-1605 ext 200. Ask for the Recreational Use Permit specifically for Boston Harbor Islands.  

If your expedition destination is Thompson Island, contact the Outward Bound staff at (617) 328-3900 ext. 116 to inquire about the necessary permits, including those if you intend to stay overnight.

Trip Tip!: Ask how many days in advance the completed permit should be returned. Remember to include any processing fees!