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Important Dates The 2026 CUA application period for Big Cypress National Preserve is OPEN.We will begin accepting new CUA applications for 2027 from October 15, 2026 through December 31, 2026.October 15 - CUA application window OPEN for the next calendar year. December 31 - CUA application window CLOSED. CUA applications will NOT be accepted after this date. February 28 - Annual Reports due for previous calendar year of operation. If your Annual Report is late, your current CUA will be suspended until we receive your Annual Report. Management Fees are due 2 weeks after your Annual Report is accepted and approved. If your Management Fee payment is late, your current CUA will be suspended until we receive your Management Fee payment. What is a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)?A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service that authorizes an individual, group, company, or other for-profit entity to conduct commercial activities and provide specific visitor services within a national park area. The National Park Service will only issue CUAs for commercial activities and visitor services that: are determined to be an appropriate use of Big Cypress National Preserve; will have minimal impact on Big Cypress National Preserve’s resources and values; and are consistent with Big Cypress National Preserve’s purpose, management plans, policies, and regulations. Do I Need a CUA?A CUA is required if you, as an individual, organization, or company, provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for members, clients, or the public that: take place at least in part in Big Cypress National Preserve, use preserve resources, and result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit. Businesses and individuals may not conduct commercial activities in the park without a valid CUA or in a manner inconsistent with the terms of the CUA. You must be in possession of a valid CUA to conduct business in Big Cypress National Preserve. 
How To Apply For A CUAAll CUA applications are processed through the online CUA Application and Reporting System. Watch this instructional video on using the online CUA Application and Reporting System. **This CUA will be valid for a two-year period, from January 1, 2027 –December 31, 2028.**
Required DocumentsThe following documents (if applicable) must be uploaded onto the online CUA Application and Reporting System:
3. See the table below to learn about which required documents and reporting are needed before applying for each authorized activity and services types.
Which CUA Do I Apply For?Be sure to apply for the correct CUA. Please contact us if you have any questions prior to submitting your application. **If you apply for the wrong CUA, your application will be denied and you will have to reapply for the correct CUA and pay the application fee again.** CUA FeesThe CUA fees are as follows:
All payments must be made via the online CUA system. Reporting
Ready To Apply?Once you've read the information on this page and are ready to apply, click the button below to learn about the program requirements and the application process. If you've read the information on this site and believe you're ready to apply, click the button below to access the application. Additional InformationRight of First RefusalsClick here to learn more about Right of First Refusals. Commercial Operator TrainingClick here to learn more about commercial operator training.Authorized Commercial Services and LimitationsClick here to learn more about authorized commercial services and limitations.Frequently Asked QuestionsView frequently asked questions about Commercial Use Authorizations below. What is a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)? + −A CUA is an NPS business permit allowing approved commercial activities and visitor services within a national park. What does the Federal law (PL 105-391, Section 418) require? + −CUAs must protect park resources and visitors, support park purposes, comply with regulations, limit federal liability, and recover reasonable administrative costs. Do you expect the CUA process to change in the future? + −Yes. The National Park Service is developing national regulations governing appropriate CUA operations. Do I or my company, group or organization need a CUA permit? + −A CUA is required when commercial goods or services use park resources and result in compensation, benefit, or profit. What constitutes a commercial tour or service? + −A commercial tour or service involves recreational travel packaged, priced, or sold by an organization for financial gain. Are there limits on the number of CUA permits that can be issued? + −Yes. The current FAQ also lists the updated 2026 CUA fee amounts. Is there a cost for the permit? + −Yes. The 2026 fees are a $350 application fee and a $1,000 management fee for two-year permits. How do I apply for a CUA? + −Applications are processed through the CUA Application and Reporting System . Review the instructions and required supporting documentation before applying. Once a CUA is issued, what are the reporting requirements? + −Operators must submit monthly visitation information through the online system and complete an annual report. Can a CUA be denied, suspended, or revoked? + −Yes. Failure to follow authorization requirements may result in denial, suspension, or revocation. Email us for the policy. How do you fill out the CUA Application? + −Review the instructional material for guidance on completing the online CUA application here.
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Last updated: October 30, 2026