Laws & Policies

Superintendent's Compendium Chiricahua/Fort Bowie 2024


Approved by Superintendent Matthew Carroll, January 5, 2024

In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations ("36 CFR"),Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, Section 100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Chiricahua National Monument (CHIR) and Fort Bowie National Historic Site (FOBO). Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.

Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent's use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.



Superintendent’s Compendium CHIR/FOBO 2024

I. 36 CFR §1.5- VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES


36 CFR §1.5(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for
the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of
the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:

Visiting Hours:
Visiting hours for certain facilities, offices and roads have been established for CHIR and FOBO. All current designations are posted in the parks and on the park's website.

FOBO is open to the general public from sunrise to sunset. Visiting during closed hours requires the written permission of the Superintendent.


Public Use Limits:

  1. All posted campground regulations in Bonita Canyon Campground will be enforced.
    a. Quiet hours in the Bonita Canyon Campground are 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. During the quiet hours, the use of generators, portable or fixed motors or any type of noise producing machine, or any activity which creates unusual noise or unreasonably disturbs other visitors or residents, is prohibited
    b. Camping in the Bonita Canyon Campground is limited to a maximum of eight people per site, a maximum of two vehicles per site when space is available and a maximum of two tents per campsite. All vehicles must be parked so as to not block or restrict traffic on campground or main road.
    c. Camping in the Bonita Canyon Campground Group Campsite is limited to a maximum of 24 people. A maximum of eight tents in the camping area and five vehicles are allowed in the parking area.
    d. Camping in CHIR by any person, party or organization between December 1 and May 31 shall not exceed 14 days, either in a single period or combined separate periods. Camping in CHIR by any person, party or organization during any calendar year shall not exceed 14 consecutive days and shall not exceed 30 days total for combined separate periods.
    e. Livestock are not permitted in the Bonita Canyon Campground.
  2. Stock parties shall not include more than 10 animals in one continuous group, with a maximum of twenty animals per party/organization daily, or fewer when so specified by specific permit restrictions.
  3. Public Use Restrictions:
a. Overnight camping within the boundaries of CHIR is restricted to the established campsites in the Bonita Canyon Campground. Camping or overnight parking in any other location is prohibited.
b. Picnicking within the Bonita Canyon Campground is prohibited.
c. Parking of horse trailers and vehicles transporting stock is limited to gravel areas of the Faraway Ranch equestrian trailhead parking area and the paved portion of the Faraway Ranch parking area. Faraway Ranch trailhead is the only designated stock trailhead at CHIR. Parking for stock vehicles at FOBO is limited to pullouts and parking lots large enough to accommodate stock vehicles while still leaving parking room for other vehicles.
d. All park structures, other than private residences, are closed to smoking.
e. The use of bicycles is prohibited except on park roads, parking areas and paved surfaces.
f. The use of bicycles in the designated Wilderness area at CHIR is prohibited
g. Dogs (except for official service animals), cats and other pets are prohibited in CHIR and FOBO except in the locations specified below:
i. Parking areas, pull outs and inside of vehicles as long as they are properly restrained. Established trails within FOBO.
ii. The Bonita Canyon Campground, Faraway Ranch and Visitor Center parking lots, and the trails that link these three locations at CHIR. Included also is the residential areas of both parks.
h. Following CHIR trails are OPEN to pets on leash:
i. Silver Spur Meadow trail
ii. Interpretive trails within Faraway Ranch Historic District
iii. Bonita Creek Trail.
i. Operating a vehicle which exceeds the physical limitations of the roadway and/or the operation of any commercial tractor/trailer on the road beyond the park entrance station without approval from the Superintendent.
j. No private vehicles with attached trailers are permitted past the Faraway Ranch parking area without approval from the Superintendent. Exceptions are granted for horse trailers proceeding directly to Faraway Ranch horse trailer area and vehicles with campers proceeding directly to Bonita Springs campground for reservation check-in. No vehicles exceeding 24 feet in length shall be allowed beyond the Bonita Canyon Campground entrance.

Determination: Beyond the Bonita Canyon Campground the road curvature and width leading to Massai Point does not easily accommodate vehicles in excess of 24 feet. Smaller parking areas inside the park preclude the use of trailers without impacts to other visitors. These vehicle restrictions are based on the safety recommendations from the 2000 Chiricahua National Monument Transportation Study.
k. Active roads may be closed due to adverse weather or roadway conditions. Access to these roads past closed gates are restricted to all public use including vehicles and pedestrians.
Determination: Public access to closed roadways significantly increases safety risks to park staff and visitors and may interfere or delay maintenance operations to return the road to service.
i. Passenger Carrying Busses: Engines must be shut down when not immediately underway. Idling in excess of 5 minutes is prohibited.
Determination: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park.

Closures

  1. Unmanned Aircraft
a. Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of CHIR or FOBO is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.
b. Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operator or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

Determination: Unmanned aircraft use in National Parks has increased dramatically in the past few years. NPS Management Policies 2006 1.5 and 8.2.2 states the National Park Service will not allow new park uses until a determination has been made that the new use will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values. Policy Memorandum 14-05, dated June 19, 2014, provides interim policy guidance until this determination has been made. Specifically, impacts to resources and values of concern related to unmanned aircraft use at CHIR and FOBO include: visitor experience, areas of the park designated as Wilderness, associated Wilderness values, natural quiet, all wildlife including threatened and endangered species (Lesser Long Nose Bat) and viewsheds.

2. Designate areas for a specific use or activity, or impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in one or more, but not all, of the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, the superintendent will determine whether individuals are required to wear masks. The requirement, if any, will apply to all facilities within the park.

Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement.

Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so. Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status.

Additionally, all individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear masks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, and boats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.

Determination: Administration Priorities. As stated in E.O. 13991, it is the policy of the Administration to halt the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) by relying on the best available data and science-based public health measures. Such measures include wearing masks when around others, physical distancing, and other related precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). On January 24, 2021, the Office of Management and Budget issued M-21-15, COVID-19 Safe Federal Workplace: Agency Model Safety Principles to provide guidance to federal agencies on implementing E.O. 13991. M-21-15 contains model safety principles that apply CDC guidelines related to mask-wearing and physical distancing to the federal workplace and are designed to be used by federal agencies as a starting point for updating their COVID-19 workplace safety plans. The guidance for superintendents in this Memorandum draws upon these principles to help ensure that visitors to the National Park System do not threaten the health and safety of NPS employees, volunteers, partners and contractors, or other park visitors.

2/2/2021 On January 29, 2021, the Acting Secretary of the Interior issued a memorandum entitled Protecting Our Workforce by Requiring Mask-Wearing. This memorandum reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to an urgent, robust, and professional response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Memorandum requires all onsite employees, contractors, and volunteers to wear a mask or face covering at all times while in Department buildings or on federal public lands when physical distancing of 6 feet or more is not possible.

36 CFR 1.5(a)(2)
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
• Outdoor filming activities [outside of areas managed as wilderness]2 involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
• maintain public health and safety;
• protect environmental or scenic values;
• protect natural or cultural resources;
• allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
• avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request.

The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10 day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit.
The following are prohibited:
(1) Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
(2) Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if [the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if]
(3) the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required.
(4) Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action.
Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.
II. 36 CFR§1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT

See list as provided under 36 CFR 1. 7(b)

III. 36 CFR§1.7(b) The following activities REQUIRE A PERMIT from the Superintendent.

  1. 36 CFR §2.5(a) Specimen collection (Take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
  2. 36 CFR §2.10(a)The following camping activities require a special permit:
    1. Camping outside designated campground
    2. Exceeding Bonita Canyon campground regulations such as length restrictions, campinglength of stay, exceeding maximum allowable capacity.
  3. 36 CFR §2.12(a) Audio Disturbances:
    1. 36 CFR §2.12 a(1) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device poweredby a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
    2. 36 CFR §2.12 a(2) Operating a chain saw in developed areas
    3. 36 CFR §2.12 a(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to 36 CFR§2.50or 36 CFR §2.51
  4. 36 CFR §2.17(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter orother airborne means.
  5. 36 CFR §2.17 (c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft must be completed by permit withconditions established by the Superintendent.
  6. 36 CFR §2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services.
  7. 36 CFR §2.38 (a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents or explosivematerials.
  8. 36 CFR §2.50 (a) Special events
  9. 36 CFR §2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, or parades with more than 25 participants.
    Determination: To ensure protection of park resources, participants, and visitors, no objects may extend beyond or above the designated area. The permit may be obtained at the Visitor Center.
  10. 36 CFR §2.62{b) Memorialization- (Scattering ashes from human cremation) See page 12, section 36 CFR §2.62 for more information.
  11. 36 CFR §4.11(a) Exceeding established vehicle load, weight and size limits
  12. 36 CFR §5.1 Advertisements- (Display, posting or distribution.)
  13. 36 CFR §5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
  14. 36 CFR §5.5 Commercial photography when utilizing props, models or support crew.

Determination: Permit systems authorized and issued pursuant to specific regulations in this chapter, except Section 1.5 need not be supported by a written determination unless required by the specific authorizing regulation [48 FR 30262].


IV. GENERAL REGULATIONS

36 CFR §2.1 - PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES

(a)(5) The following conditions are in effect for walking, climbing, entering, ascending or traversing the listed archeological or cultural resource, monuments or statues:

  • Climbing, ascending or otherwise traversing the rock pinnacles is prohibited.
  • Climbing, standing, sitting or otherwise being on top of ruin walls at FOBO is prohibited.

Determination: Climbing, ascending, or otherwise traversing the rock pinnacles and walls of FOBO has been determined to cause damage to the natural and cultural resources including wildlife habitat.


36 CFR §2.2 -WILDLIFE PROTECTION

1. 36 CFR §2.2(d) The transportation of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
  • Legally taken, properly tagged and identified wildlife (in accordance with State laws and regulations) may be transported through the park, only on Apache Pass road in FOBO. The possession of wildlife must be declared upon entering CHIR.
  • Park residents may transport legally taken, properly tagged and identified wildlife (in accordance with State laws and regulations) to park residences.

Determination: Limits the illegal take of wildlife within the park boundaries and requires documentation of proof that the wildlife was lawfully taken outside of park boundaries in compliance with State and Federal law.

2. 36 CFR §2.2(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
a. All areas of the park within the boundaries of CHIR and FOBO are closed to the use of artificial light or beam, visible or infrared and use of audio tapes or other recordings for the purpose of attracting and viewing wildlife.
b. The Superintendent may, on a case by case basis, approve the use of artificial calling/lighting for the viewing of wildlife in accordance with Title 36 CFR §2.2(e), NPS 53 (Filming Guidelines/SUP's).

Determination: Animal’s natural habits and activities can be adversely affected while being artificially illuminated. Some of these activities include feeding, resting, and mating. The proliferation of poor quality outdoor lighting is the principle threat to the night sky. Reducing the number of multiple lighting systems will allow for activities focused on public enjoyment of dark skies.


36 CFR §2.10-CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE

  1. 36 CFR §2.1O(a) The sites and areas listed below have been designated for camping activities as noted. A permit system has been established for certain campgrounds or camping activities, and conditions for camping and camping activities are in effect as noted:
a. Bonita Canyon Campground
b. Backcountry of CHIR and FOBO by Superintendent permit only

2. 36 CFR §2.1O(b)(3) Camping within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or main road, or within 100 feet of a flowing stream, river or body of water is authorized by special permit only.
3. 36 CFR §2.1O(b)(7) Connecting to a utility system is prohibited, except as designated below:
a. Use of utilities at the accessible site at Bonita Canyon Campground by persons with special needs.
4. 36 CFR §2.1O(b)(9) Camping conditions
a. Overnight camping within the boundaries of CHIR is restricted to the established campsites in
the Bonita Canyon Campground. Camping or overnight parking in other locations is prohibited.
b. Camping in the Bonita Canyon Campground is limited to a maximum of eight people per site, a
maximum of two vehicles per site when space is available and a maximum of two tents per campsite.
All vehicles must be parked in a manner that does not block or restrict traffic on the campground
or main road.
c. Camping in the Bonita Canyon Campground Group Campsite is limited to groups of nine to 24
people. A maximum of eight tents in the camping area and five vehicles is allowed in the parking
area.
d. Camping fees are due within one hour of occupying a campsite. All campsites must be identified
as occupied by placing receipt upon campsite post or by showing the campsite as occupied. Checkout
time is 11:00 a.m.
e. The subletting of campsites or camping space is prohibited.
f. Campsites may not be left unattended for more than 24 hours without prior approval of the Superintendent.
g. Quiet hours in the campground are 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. During the quiet hours, the use of
generators, portable or fixed motors or any type of noise producing machine, or any activity which
creates unusual noise or unreasonably disturbs other visitors or residents, is prohibited.
h. The use of cord, rope, nails, chain, or other attachments on trees is prohibited. Solar
showers, hammocks and clotheslines should be attached to a vehicle or other man-made structure.
Determination: Limiting the occupancy, noise, and site use reduces the impact on the natural
resources caused by overnight use, and limits conflict among visitor use activities. These
restrictions are intended to maintain public health and safety, protection of environmental and
scenic values, protection of natural resources, implementation of
management responsibilities and equitable use of facilities.

5. 36 CFR §2.10(d) Food storage in Bonita Canyon Campground
a. Food, garbage, and equipment used to cook or store food must be kept sealed
i. in a vehicle or in the provided food storage bins at the campsite
ii. in a camping unit that is constructed of solid, non-pliable material,
iii. or suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet horizontally from a post, tree
trunk or other object.
Determination: Storage of food, food containers, and cooking utensils prevents wildlife from
getting access to human food. Habituated animals can become aggressive and may have to be destroyed
for health and safety reasons. Save a life – store your food and equipment properly.


36 CFR §2.11 - PICNICKING

  1. Picnicking within the Bonita Canyon Campground is prohibited.
  2. The use of handicap designated picnic sites is open for all, but users may be asked to yieldto persons with disabilities needing the use of the site.

Determination: Allows for the equitable use of facilities and avoidance of conflict among visitor use facilities


36 CFR § 2.13- FIRES

1. 36 CFR §2.13(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
a. Open fires (burning wood, charcoal, or other solid fuels with an unregulated flame) are permitted only in government provided/established grills, grates or fire rings or in designated sites in the campground and picnic areas.
b. Use of personally-owned receptacles for open fires:
i. Fires in portable fire containers are subject to approval by park staff.
ii. Self-contained grills manufactured for charcoal cooking are subject to approval by park staff.
Charcoal must be cooled and disposed of in a designated receptacle.
iii. Free standing portable fireplaces that are elevated above ground surface may be permitted.
c. Established Conditions for Fires:
i. Fires outside of designated campground and picnic areas are allowed only by permit from the Superintendents' office.
ii. Firewood: Collecting firewood within CHIR is prohibited
2. 36 CFR §2.13(a)(2) The following restrictions are in effect for the use of stoves or lanterns:
a. Lanterns must not be hung near trees in a manner that damages/burns the tree.
b. Stoves capable of an operator-regulated flame (which burn gas, or liquid fuels and can be turned on or off) must be maintained so as not to create a fire hazard due to improper placement or being used for purposes other than what it was designed for.
3. 36 CFR §2.13(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
a. Upon termination of use, with a non-flammable liquid until it is cool to the touch
4. 36 CFR §2.13(c) High fire danger closures will be in effect as noted:
a. Seasonal fire restrictions may prohibit any fire use depending on severity of fire danger level.

Determination: The prohibitions within this section serve the purpose of protecting park natural,
historic, and archaeological resources from the detrimental effects of campfires and fires. In
addition, restricting fires to receptacles (where provided) prevents fire scars from
s fire debris to a small, designated area.



36 CFR §2.14- SANITATION and REFUSE

1. 36 CFR §2.14(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is prohibited.

2. 36 CFR §2.14(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, or carryout of human body waste have been established as follows:
a. Human waste may not be deposited less than 200 feet from surface water. Waste must be deposited in at least a 6 inch deep hole and buried. Pack toilet paper and refuse out as trash.
Determination: Limiting condition of the disposal of human waste to specific areas is necessary for
the maintenance of public health and safety. It also prevents contamination
ater sources.



36 CFR §2.15- PETS

Pet regulation closures do not apply to official service animals while in service.
Pet regulations do not apply to working law enforcement or search and rescue K-9s.

1. 36 CFR §2.15(a)(1)The following structures and/or areas are closed to thepossession of pets:
a. All public use buildings including visitor centers, public restrooms, park offices,workstations and storage facilities
2. 36 CFR §2.15(a)(3) Leaving pets unattended and/or secured to an object is not permitted.
3. 36 CFR §2.15(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
a. Pet owners must remove and properly dispose of all solid pet excrement
4. 36 CFR §2.15(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
a. Pets may be kept by individuals residing within CHIR or FOBO quarters in accordance with the NPS SEAZ Group housing policy.
Determination: Leash requirements provide for the protection of the pet as well as other park visitors, while preventing pets from disturbing or harassing native wildlife. Pet excrement
poses a public health hazard in high use areas. All other regulations in this section are in effect to protect unattended pets from exposure to high temperatures, and park wildlife.

36 CFR §2.16- HORSES and PACK ANIMALS
1. 36 CFR §2.16(a) The following animals are designated as pack animals for purposes of transporting equipment:
a. "Pack animal" means horses, burros, mules or other hoofed mammals.

2. 36 CFR §2.16 (b) The use of horses or pack animals is allowed on the following trails, routes
or areas:

Chiricahua National Monument
• Lower Rhyolite trail
• Upper Rhyolite trail
• Sarah Deming trail
• Big Balanced Rock trail
• Inspiration Point trail
• Mushroom Rock trail
• Hailstone trail
• Ed Riggs trail
• Echo Canyon trail
• Silver Spur Meadow trail

Fort Bowie National Historic Site
• Butterfield Stage Route
• Fort trail from trailhead to visitor center
• Overlook Ridge trail

3. 36 CFR §2.16{g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
a. Stock parties shall not include more than 10 animals in one continuous group, with a maximum of twentyanimals per party/organization daily, or fewer when so specified by specific permit restrictions.
b. Parking of horse trailers and vehicles transporting stock is limited to gravel areas of the Faraway Ranch equestrian trailhead parking area and the paved portion of the Faraway Ranch parking area. Faraway Ranch trailhead is the only designated stock trailhead at CHIR. Parking for stock vehicles at FOBO is limited to pullouts and parking lots large enough to accommodate stock vehicles as well as other visitor vehicles.
c. All manure and animal waste in parking areas and trail heads must be properly disposed of and removedfrom the park by the animals owner/keeper.
d. Stock parties are prohibited off trail (except for short term picketing, hobbling or highlining) or on the Heartof Rocks Loop Trail and the Massai Point Nature Loop.
e. The use of stock is confined to the trail system of both park units. The use of stock is restricted from the FortBowie Ruins areas and confined to the trail system, hitching area near the Visitor Center and the Butterfield Stage Route. Stock use is not permitted on paved roads except in those areas designated as crosswalks.
f. The tying of stock to any living or dead feature causing injury or damage to the feature or vegetation is prohibited. Picketed, highlined or hobbled animals shall not be kept so as to interfere with the use of the trailsystem by hikers.
g. Pack animals are not permitted to be kept in the Bonita Canyon Campground.
h. The feeding of hay or grain is permitted but only by feed bags or inside trailers used to haul the animals.
Determination: The use of horses and pack animals is restricted to areas where they will not present a safety hazard or create user group conflicts. The impact of stock on trail surfaces is also a consideration in determiningwhere they can be used.



36 CFR §2.17- AIRCRAFT and AIR DELIVERY

1. 36 CFR §2.17{a){1) The use of aircraft within CHIR and FOBO specifically as it relates to low level operationsand landings are subject to procedures established by the Superintendent through written authorization..
2. 36 CFR §2.17 (a)(3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means is prohibited, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
3. 36 CFR §2.17 (c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to proceduresestablished by the Superintendent through written authorization.
Determination: Limiting the use of aircraft and air delivery to only emergency situations (by permit) maintains the oise level of the park environment.



36 CFR §2.20- SKATING. SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES

The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed in thefollowing areas:

  1. No public areas have been designated for this activity.
  2. Definition: Similar devices would include motorized devices such as battery or combustion engine devices,Segway type devices.
  3. Park residents may use devices in housing area only.

Determination: There are no safe public areas where the use of these devices will not pose a safety hazard. The operationof these devices in existing areas have been determined to cause interference with other visitor uses and/or visitor traffic.


36 CFR §2.21 -SMOKING

The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
  • All administrative buildings
  • All public use facilities including restrooms, exhibit buildings and storage areas All designated workspaces and historic structures
  • All areas of CHIR and FOBO when deemed necessary due to high/extreme fire danger
  • Multi-occupancy residences
  • All government vehicles

Determination: Smoking is prohibited in the areas listed above to protect park resources, reduce the risk of fire, or prevent conflicts among visitor use activities. Smoking within any public building or structure poses a health and fire risk.


36 CFR §2.22 - PROPERTY

1. 36 CFR §2.22(a)(2) Property may be left unattended for periods longer than 24 hours in the following areas and under the following conditions:
a. Property may be left unattended only under prior arrangement with the Superintendent or their designee
b. Geocaching or similar activity is not permitted, due to the elements of digging and abandonment of property if left for greater than 24 hours.
c. Virtual geocaching, or keeping the cache in an approved area is permitted on a case by case basis. Written requests must be approved by the Superintendent..
d. Unattended property will be impounded immediately if it is suspected of being involved in illegal activity, is considered to be a threat to life safety, or interferes with efficient operation of park areas.
Determination: Unattended property is often subject to vandalism, and may interfere with efficient agency operations.



36 CFR §2.23- RECREATION FEES

1. 36 CFR §2.23 Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
a. Camping recreation fees have been established for Bonita Campground and are posted on the park's website and at the entrance to the park.
b. The superintendent may, when in the public interest, prescribe periods during which the collection of recreation fees shall be suspended. Public notice will be provided.
Determination: The collection of recreation fees are authorized in 36 CFR Part 71 and will be managed andcollected according to established policies and guidelines.

36 CFR §2.35 - ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

1. 36 CFR §2.35(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed except with the express permission of the Superintendent:
a. All government buildings
b. All public use facilities including restrooms, exhibit buildings and storage areas all
designated workspaces and historic structures
c. Alcoholic beverages may be consumed in picnic areas and Bonita Canyon Campground.
Determination: NPS policy prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages in all government buildings except bysuperintendent permit.

36 CFR §2.51- PUBLIC ASSEMBLIES. MEETINGS:

1. 36 CFR §2.51(b) Public assemblies of more than 25 people require a permit from the Superintendent. Maps of these sites are available through the Visitor Center and in the appendix of this document. Small groups may still apply for a permit in order to guarantee their use of a particular area.
2. 36 CFR §2.51(c) The following areas are designated for activities involving the public expression of views (printed map available in the Visitor Center and in Compendium appendix). Other locations will be determined on a case by case basis.
• 20x20 foot area at east end of sidewalk at Bonita Canyon parking lot
• 20x20 foot area adjacent (south) of restroom facility Massai Point
• 20x20 foot area adjacent (west- end of sidewalk) of restroom facility Faraway Ranch
• 20x20 foot area adjacent (west on patio) to restroom Fort Bowie trailhead
• 20x20 foot area adjacent to southwest corner and end of Fort Bowie Visitor Center
Determination: Limiting the size of a group and locations to gather reduces the impact on the natural andcultural resources and reduces potential visitor use conflicts.

36 CFR §2.62- MEMORIALIZATION

1. 36 CFR §2.62(a) Authorization from the Director of the National Park Service is required to install a monument, memorial, tablet, structure, or other commemorative installation in a park area.
2. 36 CFR §2.62(b} A permit is required for the scattering of ashes from cremated human remains.
a. The Superintendent has determined that the scattering of human ashes from cremation, with a permit, is allowed under the following terms and conditions:
i. The remains to be scattered must have been cremated and pulverized in compliance with State law
ii. The scattering of remains by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, or body of water.
iii. The scattering of remains from the air is to be performed at a minimum altitude of 2000 feet above the ground.
iv. No scattering of remains from the air is to be performed over developed areas, facilities, or bodies of water.
v. No other items may be left such as flowers, urns, photos, crosses, or any other memorial items.
Determination: Limiting the location of the scattering of properly cremated ashes reduces the impact on the natural and cultural resources.

36 CFR §4.10- TRAVEL ON PARK ROADS AND ROUTES

1. 36 CFR §4.1O(a) Park roads, open for travel by motor vehicle are those indicated below, and/or as indicated in the following park brochure.
a. Bonita Canyon Road
b. Sugarloaf Road
c. Apache Pass Road
2. 36 CFR §4.10 (b) The following routes and/or areas, designated pursuant to special regulations, are open for off-road vehicle travel under the terms and conditions noted:
a. None designated
b. 36 CFR §4.10(c)(1) Track-laying motor vehicles or other motor vehicles equipped with a similar traction device are prohibited.
3. 36 CFR §4.10(c)(3) Two, three, and four wheel ATVs and golf carts must comply with licensing and equipment regulations as determined by state law.
Determination: Vehicle use and road access is restricted to designated areas to maintain public safety and tural and cultural resources.

36 CFR §4.11 -VEHICLE LOAD. WEIGHT AND SIZE LIMITS

1. 36 CFR §4.11 The following load, weight and size limits, which are more restrictive than State law, apply to the roads indicated under the terms and conditions, and/or under permit as noted:
a. Bonita Canyon Road, from the campground up to Massai Point. Maximum total length for any combination of vehicles 24 feet. This limit will apply to school and commercial busses in park for tours.
Determination: These restrictions are in place to protect the public health and safety of those on the narrow roadways, protect the scenic values, protect the infrastructure of roads, and to reduce conflicts among visitor users.

36 CFR §4.21 - VEHICLE SPEED LIMITS

36 CFR §4.21(b) The Superintendent may designate a different speed limit upon any park road when a speed limitset forth in paragraph (a) of this section is determined to be unreasonable, unsafe, or inconsistent with the purposes for which the park area was established. Speed limits shall be posted by using standard traffic control devices.

Determination: Due to steep grades, narrow lane widths, minimal unimproved shoulders, unpaved sections of roadway, extensive curving, and limited visual lines of sight due to narrow canyon topography, the speed limits set forth in §4.21(a) have been determined to be unreasonable and unsafe and inconsistent with the purposes for which the park area was established. Therefore, the Superintendent has designated the adoption of speed limits on the established park roadways which are appropriate for the narrow and windingnature of these roadsand consistent with the purposes for which the park area was established.


36 CFR §4.30- BICYCLES

1. 36 CFR §4.30(a) Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are listed in section 1.5 of this document.
a. If a road is closed to temporarily closed to vehicle traffic it is also closed to bicycle traffic. Determination: Roads may be closed to vehicles with or without prior public notice while undergoing maintenance or to deal with road hazards. Bicyclists are also prohibited during these times for public safety and for the safety of the workers.
2. 36 CFR §4.30(h)(4) Riding a bicycle abreast of another rider is prohibited on Bonita Canyon Road.
Determination: The narrow winding nature of the Bonita Canyon Road makes riding abreast a public
safety hazard.

3. 36 CFR 4.30(i) Electric bicycles (e-bike)**e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedalsand an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).
4. 36 CFR 4.30(i)(1) The use of an electric bicycle may be allowed on park roads, parking areas, and administrative roads and trail that are otherwise open to bicycles. The Superintendent will designate the areas open to electric bicycles, or specific classes of electric bicycles, and notify the public pursuant to 36 CFR 1.7.

E-bikes are allowed in Fort Bowie or Chiricahua where traditional bicycles are allowed.

5. 36 CFR 4.30(i)(2) The use of an electrical bicycle is prohibited in locations not designated by the Superintendent under paragraph (i)(1) of 36 CFR 4.30(i).
6. 36 CFR 4.30(i)(3) Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electrical motor exclusively to move an electric bicycle for an extended period of time without pedaling is prohibited.
7. 36 CFR 4.30(i)(5) A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 thatapply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Fort Bowie or Chiricahua is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.”
Note: Superintendents may limit or restrict or impose conditions on bicycle use, including specific limitations on e-bike use, or may close any park road, parking area, administrative road, trail, or portion thereof to such bicycle use and/or e-bike use, or terminate such condition, closure, limit or restriction after taking into consideration public health and safety, natural and cultural resource protection, and other management activities and objectives.

Closed Circuit Television or CCTV Public Notice

In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), the public is hereby notified that Chiricahua National Monument and Fort Bowie National Historic Site use CCTV for the purpose of monitoring security cameras to “help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention and deterrence of terrorist attack and crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals” (RM-9, 26.1). Furthermore, the cameras will be used “only… to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists” (RM-9, 26.1)

Determination: The use of such cameras is in the best interest of the park security and safety to protect visitors, employees, and park resources and is required to be posted in the compendium and at facilities where camerasare present.

END

 

Firearm Regulations

A federal law passed by Congress took affect on February 22, 2010 and allows anyone who can legally possess firearms under applicable Arizona state laws, to legally possess firearms in this park. Although Arizona State law allows people to possess firearms, all other federal regulations restricting the use of the firearm still apply and include, but are not limited to:

Firearms may not be discharged in this National Park service unit and should not be used as a wildlife protection strategy.

Firearms may not be possessed in certain facilities in this park (such as visitor centers, government offices, etc.) Those facilities where you may not possess a firearm are posted with signs at all public entrances.

There is no hunting allowed in this park.

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable firearms laws before entering this park. Additional information concerning Arizona State regulations can be accessed on the following web pages:

Home page: http://az.gov/

Statutes: http://www.azleg.state.az.us/ArizonaRevisedStatutes.asp

Concealed Weapons: http://www.azdps.gov/Services/Concealed_Weapons/

State Reciprocity: http://www.azdps.gov/Services/Concealed_Weapons/Reciprocity/

Last updated: January 9, 2024

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12856 E Rhyolite Creek Rd
Willcox, AZ 85643

Phone:

520 824-3560

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