First Amendment Activity

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are rights protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. People may exercise these rights in national parks, but the National Park Service (NPS) still retains its responsibility to protect park resources and prevent conflict among park visitors. Therefore, the NPS establishes guidelines for setting the time, place, and manner (number of participants, use of facilities, and type of equipment) for the events to occur.

By law, the NPS has established places in parks where First Amendment activities can be accommodated. These areas are visible to the general visiting public without interfering with the public's enjoyment of the park.

Special Use Permits are issued for First Amendment activities, but there are no fees or costs and no insurance is required for the activities. All requests for similar activities are treated equally. As long as permit criteria and requirements are met, no group wishing to assemble lawfully will be discriminated against or denied the right of assembly.

Groups of 25 persons or less may exercise their First Amendment activities without first obtaining a permit. They are still required to use one of the park's First Amendment areas. Groups without permits will be allowed use of the First Amendment area on a first come first serve basis. A group with a valid permit will be permitted to displace a group without a permit.

 

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Fill out all required sections of the Special Use Permit application.

• Include all required supporting documentation.

Step 2: Save Your Application

• Download or save your completed application.

• Keep a copy for your records and for submission by email.

Step 3: Submit Payment Through Pay.gov

• Open the designated Pay.gov payment form.

• Enter the requested information.

• Select the fee amount that matches your special use permit application

• Review your information and follow the instructions to submit your non-refundable payment.

Step 4: Save Your Payment Receipt

• Once payment is complete, Pay.gov will provide confirmation and email receipt.

• Save or download your receipt as proof of payment.

Step 5: Email Your Application and Receipt

Email the following to [e-mail]

• Completed permit application

• Required supporting documentation

• Pay.gov payment receipt

What Happens After You Apply?

Park staff will:

1. Review your application and support documents.

2. Contact you if additional information is needed.

3. Evaluate the proposed activity and coordinate with other park divisions, if necessary.

4. Determine any additional requirements or fees.

5. Approve or deny the request.

Processing Time: Please allow at least 10 business days for processing. Complex requests may take longer. Submit your application well in advance of your planned activity.

Permit Approval and Issuance

If approved, park staff will:

• Contact you regarding any additional requirements or applicable fees.

• Email your permit for review and signature.

• Provide instructions for completing the permit process.

Your permit will outline the approved activities, dates, locations, conditions, restrictions, and any other requirements.

Important: You may not begin your activity until you have received a fully executed Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.

Permit Fee Authority

The National Park Service is authorized under 54 U.S.C. 103104 and 54 U.S.C. 200101 to recover costs associated with managing special park uses. These fees are intended to cover administrative and operational costs, not generate revenue beyond actual expenses.