Laws & Policies

"The fundamental purpose of parks and reservations...is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."

- from the National Park Service Organic Act of 1916

The National Park Service (NPS) has a dual mission: to conserve scenic, natural and cultural resources to leave them "unimpaired" for future generations, while providing for the enjoyment of people today. These two often seem to be in conflict, but the bottom line is that the NPS is responsible to provide for the enjoyment of parks, while never allowing that enjoyment to impair resources or the safety and enjoyment of other visitors. The policies below are made in accordance with the NPS Organic Act and Wilderness Act.

Code of Federal Regulations (NPS 36) »
Regulations for the proper use, management and protection of people, property and resources within National Park Service areas.

Superintendent's Compendium and First Amendment Area Map

Firearms Information
Federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park.

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. As a starting point, please visit the Colorado State Patrol website.

Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.

Pets

Pets are prohibited from all trails and areas of Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument except for the visitor parking lot, portions of the picnic area near the visitor center, and small exercise area off the parking lot of the visitor center. Inquire at the Visitor Center for exceptions for registered service dogs.