First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. Therefore, all first amendment activities require special use permits and the NPS may regulate the time, place, and manner in which they are conducted. Some examples of special events that require permits are:

• distribution and/or sale of printed matter
• religious services
• public demonstrations or assemblies, etc.
• collecting signature for petitions

 

Designated areas for First Amendment Activities:

• All public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public expressions of views will be limited to the lawn area at the corner of the walkway at the front of the visitor center or the lawn area between the loop road and the service road for the visitor center (shown on accompanying map).
  • Per 36 CFR:
    These areas are large enough to accommodate multiple use including public assemblies. This location meets the requirements outlined in 36 CFR section 2.51 (e) 1-5 as to not damage the resource, interfere or impair any government or public activity or endanger any persons.

Download application for Special Use Permit here.