Commercial Use AuthorizationsWhat is a Commercial Use Authorization? A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service. It authorizes you to conduct commercial activities and to provide specific visitor services within a national park. We will only issue CUAs for activities that:
You must have a CUA if you or your organization provide services that:
You may not conduct commercial activities in the park without a valid CUA or in a manner inconsistent with the terms of the CUA. 2022 COVID-19 CUA Guidance:Guide Orientation Video:
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Millions of visitors come to the Southeast Utah Parks each year and seek out knowledgeable guides to aid them in their experience. As a commercial guide, it is your responsibility to keep the members of your group safe while also providing a worthwhile experience. Please ensure all tour guides watch this video before taking guests into the park. Authorized ServicesCanyonlands National Park authorizes the following Road-based and Non-road-based commercial services with an approved Commercial Use Authorization (CUA): ![]() Road-based ToursRoad-based Commercial Tour Conditions ![]() Taxi & Trail ShuttleRoad-based Commercial Tour Conditions ![]() Guided Interpretive Day HikesNon-road-based Commercial Activities Conditions ![]() Guided BackpackingNon-road-based Commercial Activities Conditions ![]() Still Photography & Art InstructionNon-road-based Commercial Activities Conditions ![]() Services NOT permitted
How much does a CUA cost?The application fee is $300 per CUA for each national park area listed in the application. Payment must be processed through Pay.gov. The National Park Service is authorized to recover associated management and administrative costs associated with CUAs. The CUA fee covers the costs of processing and administering your application as well as overseeing the operational, safety, and environmental requirements stipulated in the permit. 2023 Update: CUA application fees will remain in the same in 2023. CUA fees for 2024 are being evaluated to ensure cost recovery for program administration. How do I apply for a CUA?Step 1
Step 2
Step 3Submit the following to the commercial services email address listed in the application document. If you have questions, email: SEUG_CommercialServices@nps.gov
Incomplete packages cannot be processed. Sample Acknowledgement of Risk FormCUA holders may not require clients to sign a waiver of liability statement or form, insurance disclaimer and/or indemnification agreement. They may request or require clients to sign an acknowledgement of risk statement or form prior to participation. You can download a sample. [40k Word doc] For more questions, contact the CUA program manager: SEUG_CommercialServices@nps.gov Have More Questions?Frequently Asked Questions |
Last updated: December 21, 2022