Permits are required for certain organized group activities and special events, and for leaving vehicles in long-term parking lots on the island.

Activities requiring permits:

Long-term vehicle parking on islands

Fees: $10.00 – 7 days

This permit is required for any vehicle or trailer that will be parked unattended for more than 24 hours in one of the park’s three long-term parking lots. All unattended vehicles must be in one of these lots. Permits are issued Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Harkers Island Visitor Center. 

Required documentation for a parking permit:

• Current vehicle registration
• Proof of insurance
• Valid drivers license

Parking permit instructions and application are available as a pdf file.

Wedding, special event, and commercial filming permits

Contact the Administrative Office at (252) 728-2250 ext. 3018 for details regarding rules and regulations pertaining to these events.

• Special Event Application (pdf - 59kb)
• Commercial Filming permits
  short form (pdf - 59kb)
  long form (pdf - 128 kb)

Scientific Research & Collections

A Scientific Research and Collecting Permit is required for most scientific activities pertaining to natural resources or social science studies in National Park System areas that involve fieldwork, specimen collection, and/or have the potential to disturb resources or visitors.