Special Use PermitsNational parks are great places to celebrate historic events and family milestones. The types of activities that take place in national parks are diverse, such as sporting events, pageants, celebrations, public spectator attractions, entertainment, ceremonies, historical reenactments, fairs, festivals, family reunions, and picnics.Depending on the size and complexity of the planned event, the park may require you obtain a special use permit (SUP). If issued, the permit will include terms and conditions that protect park resources while allowing you to enjoy the park without interfering with other park visitors. It is possible that if these events are low impact that they may be able to occur without a permit (less than 25 people attending, no equipment, no audio set up, etc.). A special park use is defined as an activity that takes place in a park area and that:
The National Park Service may permit a special park use if the proposed activity will not:
Permit Applications and FAQs![]() Apply for a Special Use Permit
All the information and documents you need to apply for a permit at Fort McHenry. ![]() Special Use Permit FAQs
Here is a link to a few answers for typical Special Use Permit questions. ![]() Frequently Requested Permits
If you want more details on the events allowed at the park and the event restrictions, click here. ![]() Photography Quickguide
A helpful quick reference to photography within the park. Types of PermitsFort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, as part of the National Park Service, is open to several special use activities that may require a permit. The type of permit issued depends on the activity being requested. The links below will provide information on each type of special use permit to allow potential permittees to determine what type of permit they should apply for.![]() Special Park Use Permits
Learn more about obtaining a special park use permit. ![]() Filming/Photography/Audio Recording
This link will assist with all questions regarding filming, photography, and audio recording permits. ![]() First Amendment Permits
This link will assist with First Amendment permit requests. Commercial Use AuthorizationIf you are a commercial tour business that is planning multiple visits to Fort McHenry, or have already had your first visit to the site, then a commerical use authorization is required. Any businesses looking to conduct business on National Park Service land must obtain a Commercial Use Authorization.![]() Commercial Use Authorization
Link to all the information regarding Commercial Use Authorizations at Fort McHenry. |
Last updated: September 28, 2025