Permits & Reservations

Permits

A special park use (SPU) is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:

• Provides a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the public at large;
• Requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the Park Service in order to protect park assets and the public interest;
• Is not prohibited by law or regulation;
• Is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the Park Service;
• Is not managed under a concession contract, a recreation activity for which the National Park Service charges a fee, or a lease.

Each request to permit a special park use or to renew authorization of an existing use will be reviewed and evaluated by the park superintendent.

Appropriate fees for cost recovery, as well as performance bond and liability insurance requirements, will be imposed, consistent with applicable statutory authorities and regulations. All costs incurred by the Park Service in writing the permit, monitoring, providing protection services, restoring park areas, or otherwise supporting a special park use will be reimbursed by the permittee. When appropriate, the Park Service will also include a fair charge for the use of the land or facility.

Please note that you may only apply for a Special Use Permit for activities that are to take place within 12 months of the application's date.

To apply for a Special Use Permit, call the Permit Coordinator at [phone] x 225 or send an e-mail. For detailed information on permit procedures and costs, please review these documents:

• Special Use Fee Schedule (coming soon)
• Application for Permit (pdf, 206 KB)
• Application for Film Permit (pdf, 457 KB)

 

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Reservations

Fort Sumter

Reservations for families and other small groups are generally not required for Fort Sumter. Tickets are sold first come, first served each day at the departure locations. During extremely busy periods, such as holidays and the summer season, tickets can sell out at any time.

All large groups and school groups of any size should make reservations. Please contact Fort Sumter Tours.

Fort Moultrie

Group reservations are required to visit Fort Moultrie. Groups of more than 110 people, or more than two buses, cannot be accommodated. Some large groups may have to be split-up between park locations to ensure building and structure capacities are not exceeded. To make a group reservation please call the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center at [phone] x221.

Some educational or scientific institutions may be eligible for an academic fee waiver.