Permits & Special Park Use

A special park use is a short-term activity that takes place in a park area and provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large. The National Park Service may permit a special park use providing the activity will not unduly interfere with normal park operations, cause derogation of the park's resources or values, or present a threat to public safety or property. Primary consideration will be given to potential resource damage and to anticipated disruption of normal public use.

Click on the desired link for further information and printable permit application forms (the applications are in Adobe PDF format and you must have Adobe Acrobat to print them).

 

Fees

There is a $150 non-refundable application fee charged to offset the costs of administering each permit. Additional direct costs and staff time may charged depending on the type, scale and complexity of the event.

Colonial NHP charges per user entrance fees for all recreational users including those participating in special events and activities. Collection of the entrance fees for most permitted events is handled by the permittee, such as collecting a surcharge with registration fees (for example). Non-recreational activity permits (such as 1st Ammendment activities) do not require entrance fees.

 

Memorialization

Information regarding the rules for scattering ashes may be found on Page 19 of Superintendent's Compendium

First Amendment Activities

Specific areas are designated throughout the park. More information is available here and by contacting us.

Filming & Photography

Filming Information

 

Prohibited Activities

Activities that alter the landscape, involve digging or ground disturbance or unduly interfere with normal visitation patterns. Establishing temporary or permanent memorials or any sign or structure.

Weddings are not permitted.

 

Filming Along the Colonial Parkway

National Park Service photo

More Information

Click on the desired link for further information and printable permit application forms (the applications are in Adobe PDF format and you must have Adobe Acrobat to print them).
General Information [LINK]

Permit Application Long
General Information

Completed applications should be submitted at least 60 days prior to the permit start date. Applicants are encouraged to safeguard their personally information when submitting an application.

Questions relating to special use permits may directed permit applications to the Protection Division:

 

[e-mail]

Address:
Special Use Permitting, Colonial NHP
Protection Division
Colonial National Historical Park
P.O. Box 210
Yorktown, VA 23690