Gettysburg National Military Park is regulated by Federal Law, regulations set forth by the National Park Service, and site-specific regulations designed to preserve and protect the resources of the park and Soldiers' National Cemetery, while providing a positive and safe environment for the visitor. These regulations are set forth in the Superintendent's Compendium, which is available on this page.

Park Regulations in Brief 

For visitor safety, handbags and backpacks are not allowed in the visitor center. Please leave them in the trunk of your vehicle or hidden under a seat.

Monuments and cannon were placed by veterans of the battle to mark positions and honor the sacrifices made by those organizations. They are irreplaceable historic objects protected by Federal law. Please help preserve them by not climbing, standing or hanging on monuments cannon carriages.

Metal detectors are prohibited in the park. Relic hunting by the use of metal detectors or other means is strictly prohibited and violators will be prosecuted.

Collecting of natural and cultural objects, including plants, animals, minerals, stones from walls, or other objects is strictly prohibited.

Obey posted speed limits and regulatory signs on park roads and avenues. Park in designated parking lots or on the pavement, not on the grass or road shoulders.

Pets must be leashed and attended at all times. They are prohibited in the grounds of the Soldiers' National Cemetery and inside the visitor center with the exception of special assistance animals.

SUPERINTENDENT'S COMPENDIUM, 2008 (pdf, 183.98kb)