Laws & Policies

Protecting Visitors and Resources: Policies and Regulations

There are a variety of documents that guide the management of Congaree National Park. Many documents, like the National Environmental Policy Act, articulate legal requirements to which federal entities must adhere. Other documents, like the park's General Management Plan and Superintendent's Compendium, are formal documents that create a "contract" between the park and the public. Still others, like Director's and Superintendent Orders, direct how Congaree National Park and other national park units will operate.

The information available in this section will allow you to become more aware of park implementation plans and of how park operations are structured toward success in achieving the NPS mission of preserving unimpaired park resources for the enjoyment of future generations.

Firearms Information

As of February 22, 2010, a federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park.

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park.

As a starting point, please visit:

• State of South Carolina Gun Laws
• State Reciprocity

Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.

Federal Laws

Laws are created by Congress and establish the highest order of legal authority over national parks.

Many laws, including the 1916 Organic Act that created the National Park Service, affect all areas managed by the National Park Service.

• Enabling legislation are the laws passed by congress that establish and define the park.

NPS Policies

Service-wide policy for the National Park Service is developed by the Office of Policy with public input and in accordance with applicable laws. Policies dictate many of the overall directions and procedures used by all parks.

Park Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations and the Superintendent's Compendium (Rev. 01/2026) provide a complete listing of park rules and regulations. These specific rules are developed with public input to implement applicable law.

• 36 CFR parts 1-199 pertains to all National Park areas.
• The Superintendent's Compendium provides a listing of park-specific regulations under the discretionary authority of the superintendent.
• Other regulations may also apply.

Some regulations may be subject to change.