Commercial Use Authorizations

A group of visitors wearing snowshoes walk down a snowy trail. A ranger is at the front, talking.

If you'd like to operate a business in the parks, it's likely that you'll need a commercial use authorization.

A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service that authorizes a private person, corporation, or other private entity to conduct commercial activities and provide specific visitor services within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Non-profit and educational institutions may also require a permit under this category, depending on the type of service offered. These authorizations establish guidelines for protection of park landscapes and resources, especially in areas designated as wilderness.
 

 
A group of visitors taking pictures of the General Sherman tree.

Apply for a CUA


CUA Application Timelines

Front-country

The application window for Front-country CUAs is open October 1, 2026, and remain open until September 30, 2027.

Authorizations will expire December 31, 2027 for all Front-country Activity types.

Wilderness

The application window has closed for all types of Wilderness CUAs for the 2026 – 2027 operating seasons.

At a to be determined date in 2027, the parks will solicit a limited number of CUAs valid for a two-year period, from January 1, 2028 – December 31, 2029.

 

Types of CUAs

 

 

CUA Policy

 

Resources for Wilderness CUA Holders

Last updated: September 30, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

47050 Generals Highway
Three Rivers, CA 93271

Phone:

559 565-3341

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