Commercial Use Authorization

 

What is a Commercial Use Authorization?

The Concessions Management Improvement Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-391, Section 418), provides for the issuance of Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) to a private person, corporation, or other entity to provide suitable commercial services for park area visitors. Commercial activities are generally prohibited in National Parks unless authorized by a CUA or concessions contract.

 

What Activities and Services are Authorized Through a CUA?

Padre Island National Seashore currently issues activity-based CUAs for the following activities.

All activity-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. A $75 non-refundable application fee is required for each service category, due with the application.

• Fishing guide services

• Tour guide services

Padre Island National Seashore currently issues service-based CUAs for the following activities.

All service-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. All service-based CUA activities require a $75 non-refundable application fee.

• Mobile food services

 

Application Process

CUA application packets are accepted year-round.

1. Complete application packets include the documents listed below:

• NPS Form 10-550—CUA Application [PDF 717KB]

• Copies of current insurance:
  • Certificate of auto liability insurance for the vehicle(s)/ driver(s) operating in the park.

  • Certificate of commercial general liability insurance covering the type(s) of activity the CUA holder will be conducting.

    • The minimum coverage is $500,000.

    • The insurance certificate must name the “United States of America, Padre Island National Seashore. PO Box 181300 Corpus Christi, TX 78480” as additional insured.

    • The insurance certificate must specify that the service authorized by the permit is covered by the insurance policy.

• Copies of all applicable licenses, permits and certifications:

  • A United States Coast Guard License appropriate for the vessel type, is required to operate or navigate passenger-carrying vessels (vessel-based fishing guide, boat tour guide, etc.).

  • A Texas State Guide License is required for fishing guides.

  • State issued driver license or commercial driver license.

  • Kleberg County Texas Health Permit (Mobile Permit).

  • Food handler certification.

  • All other applicable licenses, permits, and certifications.

• Copies of any advertising brochures, menus, or other materials.

• Application fee paid via check or receipt for application fee payment made at the park entrance station.

2. Complete CUA application packets should be submitted via email to [e-mail].

• If your application is missing any components listed above, we will inform you via the email address or phone number listed on the application. Any incomplete applications will be placed on hold until all required documentation is received.

3. Once your application packet has been reviewed and approved, we will send the CUA, NPS Form 10-115, via the email address listed on the application, along with instructions to pay the administrative fee of $250.

4. The CUA holder will then sign and return the CUA form(s) and payment receipt to [e-mail]. The CUA is not final until the signed form(s) are received by our office.

5. Complete and submit NPS Form 10-660 Annual Report Form—Due by January 31st following the operating year.

• A separate annual report is required for each CUA.
• An annual report is required even if no revenue was earned during the operating year.

 

CUA Fees

Fee	Due Date
Application fee - $75 (non-refundable)	When application is submitted
Management fee - $250	If application is approved

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are the general criteria for the issuance of a CUA?

The authorization is issued to an operator to permit the provision of suitable commercial services to park area visitors. The superintendent determines if an operator can satisfactorily provide visitor services and carry out the terms of the CUA. 

The superintendent determines that the commercial services are “suitable”; that is, they (a) will have minimal impact on park area’s resources and values; (b) are consistent with the purposes for which the park area was established; and (c) are consistent with all applicable park area management plans, policies, and regulations. 

The holder must agree to comply with all general and specific conditions described in the CUA conditions. 

For what length of time is an activity-based or service-based CUA issued?

All activity- and service-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. 

When is the application period?

Applications will be accepted beginning October 1st of the year prior to the operating year and will be accepted throughout the operating year. Please submit complete application packets 45 days before your first trip in the park. 

What fees are associated with an activity-based CUA?

All activity-based CUA activities require $75 application fee for each service category due with the application. This fee is not refundable. 

An administrative fee of $250 is due when applications are approved and a CUA is issued. 

The CUA holder is responsible for maintaining accounting records that demonstrate evidence of gross receipts and required fee payment. NPS may audit CUA holder financial reports at any time. 

What fees are associated with a service-based CUA?

All service-based CUA activities require a $75 non-refundable application fee. 

An administrative fee of $250 is due when applications are approved and a CUA is issued. 

The CUA holder is responsible for maintaining accounting records that demonstrate evidence of gross receipts and required fee payment. NPS may audit CUA holder financial reports at any time. 

Why does the park charge a fee for a CUA?

National Park Service Policy requires the Superintendent to charge a reasonable fee for CUAs. The park retains such fees to help pay for the cost of the CUA program, including administration, evaluations, monitoring, and training. 

When are Annual Financial Reports due?

Annual Financial Reports, which cover the operating year are due by January 31st following the end of the operating year. A separate Financial Report is required for each activity for which a CUA holder has a CUA. The CUA Coordinator will review all Annual Financial Reports for accuracy. 

How are CUA fees processed?

CUA application fees and administrative fees may be paid via check or in person at the park entrance station. 

If paying by check, please make check payable to "National Park Service" and mail to the address below. 

 

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding the CUA application process or requirements, please contact the CUA Coordinator.

Email
[e-mail]

Phone
[phone]

Mail
Special Use Permit Coordinator
Padre Island National Seashore
P.O. Box 181300
Corpus Christi, TX 78480