The Superintendent's Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent's Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level. The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park System, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c)(1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all these areas of the National Park System.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at www.gpo.gov.
OR
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
The CFR is also available on the Internet at www.ecfr.gov
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under Title 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) §100101(a) (formerly 16 U.S.C. 1a-1, “Organic Act”) to “….regulate the use of the National Park System by means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wild life in the System units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wild life in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” In addition, Title 54 U.S.C. §100751(a) allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “prescribe such regulations as the Secretary considers necessary or proper for the use and management of System units.”
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970, Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.
In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
Is the use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United States Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the park Superintendent at the address found below.
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time.
Written comments on the Compendium may be submitted to:
Superintendent
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
800 Hatheway Road, Bldg 722
Vancouver, WA 98661
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 U.S.C. §100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
NOTE: NEPA compliance is not separately required for the discretionary actions listed herein. The authority to make the various determinations under this title is provided for in 36 CFR, which has undergone NEPA compliance. However, NEPA compliance may be required in the application of these determinations. (i.e., issuing a research permit or other permit that has “potential environmental effects”.)
36 CFR § 1.1 Definitions
The following are terms used in this document. A more complete listing can be found in the CFR derived under 36 CFR §1.4 or §1.5.
An individual with a disability means any person who has a physical, mental, or sensory impairment that substantially limits one of more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. (43 CFR Part 17.503)
Archeological resource means material remains of past human life or activities that are of archeological interest and are at least 50 years of age. This term includes but shall not be limited to, objects made or used by humans such as pottery, basketry, bottles, weapons, weapon projectiles, tools, structures or portions of structures, pit houses, rock paintings, rock carvings, intaglios, or any portion or piece of the forgoing items, and the physical site, location or context in which they are found, or human skeletal remains or graves.
Bicycle means a device upon which any person may ride, propelled exclusively by human power through a belt, chain, or gears, and having one or more wheels.
Bicycle route means any lane, way, or path, designated by appropriate signs, that explicitly provides for bicycle travel.
Electric powered mobility assistance devices (e.g. electric scooters, Segway® devices) is a motor vehicle as defined in Title 36 CFR. "Electric personal assistive mobility device" or "EPMAD" means a self-balancing, non-tandem two-wheeled device, that is not greater than 20 inches deep and 25 inches wide and can turn in place, designed to transport only one person, with an electric propulsion system averaging less than 750 watts (1 horsepower), the maximum speed of which, when powered solely by a propulsion system on a paved level surface, is no more than 12.5 miles per hour.
Fire means any combustion of materials of any type outdoors.
Guided services means any type of guided commercial activity provided by Fort Vancouver National Historic Site visitors for a direct to indirect fee or charge. This includes, but is not limited to, guided activities such as hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and equestrian activities, education, instruction, and recreation for groups of all sizes.
Idling means the engine is running while a truck, bus or any vehicle is parked.
Kite buggy means a light, purpose-built vehicle pulled by a kite. The use of these devices fall under skateboarding regulations (See Skateboard).
Kitesurfing or kiteboarding means using a kite to pull a rider through the water on a surfboard or kite-board (a wakeboard-like board). The use of these devices fall under surfing regulations. Other terms used: Windsurfing.
Organized games and sports mean recreation that requires the erection of associated equipment, use of uniforms, and/or exclusive use of more than one-third of the designated area or patterns of routine use.
Overnight parking means a vehicle parking continuously between 12 midnight and 6:00 a.m.
Picnicking means an excursion or outing in which the participants carry food with them and have a meal in the open air.
Service animal means any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Miniature horses are recognized as service animals for the purpose of the definition of Service Animal. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the purpose of this definition. (28 CFR Part 35 Section 34.104)
Skateboard means a board having a set of wheels mounted under it or on the side, ridden in a standing, crouching or seated position. Other terms used for extreme sport skating: Mountain-boarding, Roll-surfing, and Dirt-surfing.
Skate sailing means a sport where people on skates are propelled by a sail. Traditionally ice skates are used, but other kinds, such as roller skates, skateboards, or wheels can be used. Other terms used: Street-sailing, Wind-skating, Sporting-sails and Land-surfing, the use of these devices fall under skateboarding regulations.
Smoking means the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, or the intentional and direct inhalation of smoke or vapors from these objects.
Sport or stunt kites: A kite that can be maneuvered through the air by an operator on the ground, through the use of two to four control lines, and often an anchor set in the ground.
Unmanned aircraft means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
36 CFR §1.2 Applicability and Scope
The regulations and public use limits or restrictions contained in this document apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise within the boundaries of lands and waters, controlled, leased, administered or otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
36 CFR §1.5 - Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations For Specific Uses or Activities
(a)(1) The following visiting hours, public use limits, and closures are established:
Visiting Hours:
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. The entire park is a day use only area and is closed to use during the hours of darkness.
On the Saturday preceding Memorial Day, visiting hours for the park visitor center, Pearson Air Museum, and reconstructed fort are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays or as posted on their entrances.
On the Monday following Labor Day, visiting hours for the park visitor center, Pearson Air Museum and reconstructed fort are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays.
Visiting hours for the Mcloughlin House Unit are 10:00 am to 4:00pm Fridays and Saturdays from mid-February to mid-December or as posted on the entrances.
Determining Factors: Establishment of visiting hours and closure are necessary to provide for physical security of National Park Service facilities and resources, including sensitive archaeological resources in situ and collections items on display. In this active urban area, less restrictive measures would not adequately provide the necessary security and protection.
The area comprising the west half of the active Pearson Airfield is closed to the public with the exception of authorized aircraft operations pursuant to the lease with the City of Vancouver.
Determining Factors: Closure at the active airfield is to ensure public safety during regular flight activity at an active municipal airport.
Public Use Limits - Pursuant to §1.5(d) to implement a public use limit. The Superintendent may establish a permit registration or reservations system.
All tour and educational groups are required to obtain a reservation online, by phone, or by writing the Group Reservation Coordinator, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, 800 Hatheway Road, Bldg. 722, Vancouver, WA 98661.
Determining Factors: The Park receives significant use and reservations are needed to reduce visitor conflicts and impacts on the park's resources. This limit will allow park staff to effectively and efficiently manage group visits.
Leaving property unattended for any period of time requires a permit.
Determining Factors: Leaving unknown property unattended in the park area threatens public safety, the environmental and scenic values of the park, the natural and cultural resources of the park, and the orderly management of the park. Visitors seeking to leave property unattended within the park must obtain a permit from the Superintendent.
The establishing or erecting of play and recreation structures (including bounce facilities, wading pools, slack lines, hammocks, water slides, and volleyball nets) is prohibited.
Determining Factors: Structures are prohibited to protect public safety, to provide visitors with the appropriate experience to be able to understand and comprehend the park and its resources, to reduce user conflicts, to preserve the historic scene and setting, to protect the historic and cultural resources of the park, and to ensure the orderly management of the park. Playing fields, permanent playground with equipment and other fitness structures for recreational play are available within and are at nearby Marshall Park. In addition, it should be noted:
Amplified music and noise from musical instruments or by other means is prohibited except by permission of the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: Amplified music and noise has the potential to derogate park values and give a negative park experience to visitors, and conflict with other park users. The park seeks to provide visitors with the appropriate experience to be able to understand and comprehend the park and its resources, and loud noise and music can negate this.
The Superintendent has established a reservation system covering special use of park grounds, and special activities outside the normal type of cultural or interpretive activities usually associated with a national historic site and not specifically covered in 36 CFR. These special uses and activities include weddings, organized gatherings, and special events.
Determining Factors: Special uses of the park have the potential to derogate park resources, give a negative park experience to visitors, and conflict with other park users. The park seeks to provide visitors with the appropriate experience to be able to understand and comprehend the park and its resources, and special uses and activities must be managed to negate these potential negative effects.
Closures:
Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: Much of the park is also within the Runway Protection Zone (RPZ) of the Pearson Airfield (municipal airport), and FAA regulations prohibit the use of unmanned aircraft within and just outside of RPZ areas. This closure is necessary to maintain public health and safety at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and to protect park resources and values until the NPS can determine whether specific uses of unmanned aircraft on lands and waters administered by the NPS are appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values. The use of unmanned aircraft currently presents unacceptable risks to visitors, including collisions between unmanned aircraft and visitors, the uncontrolled fall of unmanned aircraft, contact with spinning propellers or rotors of unmanned aircraft. The use of unmanned aircraft adversely impacts the visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic, aesthetic, natural and cultural values preserved onsite and represented by the natural and cultural environment of the 19th century Hudson's Bay Company and US Army activities onsite. Additionally, the unregulated use of unmanned aircraft would potentially violate other regulations within 36 CFR, including Sec. 2. 2 Frightening Wildlife, sec. 2. 12 Creating an Audio Disturbance, sec. 2.17 Delivering or Retrieving an Object by Airborne Means, sec. 2. 34 Making Unreasonable Noise, and sec. 5. 13 Creating or Maintaining a Nuisance.
The launching and flying of sport or stunt kites, including dual line and quad-line stunt kites, which require the use of ground anchors or direct control by individuals for surfing or exercise and kite skateboarding, skate sailing, or the use of kite buggies are all prohibited. Small scale, single string kites are allowed on the parade ground, but are prohibited elsewhere.
Determining Factors: This closure is necessary to maintain public health and safety at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and to protect park resources and values. The use of sport or stunt kites currently presents unacceptable risks to visitors, including collisions between kites and visitors, and the uncontrolled fall of sport or stunt kites. The use of sport or stunt kites also adversely impacts the visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic, aesthetic, natural and cultural values preserved onsite and represented by the natural and cultural environment of the 19th century Hudson's Bay Company and US Army activities onsite.
The use of “Zorb” balls, also referred to as “Human sized Hamster Balls,” are prohibited in the park unless through written authorization by the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: This closure is necessary to maintain public health and safety at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and to protect park resources and values. The use of Zorb balls currently presents unacceptable risks to visitors and resources, including collisions between Zorb balls and visitors and/or park resources. The use of Zorb balls also adversely impacts the visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic, aesthetic, natural and cultural values preserved onsite and represented by the natural and cultural environment of the 19th century Hudson's Bay Company and US Army activities onsite.
The interior of the reconstructed stockade, the area south of E 5th Street, the strip of land north of SE Columbia Way and the BNSF rail berm, and the East Barracks area, and the McLoughlin House National Historic Site unit are all closed to picnicking without an approved Special Use Permit signed by the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: These closures are in effect to maintain the safety of visitors and the historical significance and view shed within and around the stockade and the McLoughlin House unit. The area along Columbia Way is not safe for picnicking due to the operation of BNSF trains along the rail berm area. The East Barracks area is currently off limits to picnicking due to on-going construction and rehabilitation efforts. These closures also help to provide visitors with the appropriate experience to be able to understand and comprehend the events that occurred in the park.
The park is closed to the driving or putting of golf balls.
Determining Factors: Driven or putted golf balls can injure visitors and damage park facilities and resources. They threaten public safety. The act of hitting a golf ball can cause ground disturbance and threaten sensitive archaeology sites and resources.
The replica garden area is closed to the use of bicycles, scooters, skateboards, unicycles, pets (even on a leash), picnicking, and smoking.
Determining Factors: The replica garden has narrow pathways and sunken growing beds which presents hazards for the operation of bicycles, skateboards and scooters. Since produce is harvested from the garden for the use in interpretive cooking programs, pets, and smoking are prohibited to safeguard the sanitary nature of the produce.
The use of any powered skateboards or scooters is prohibited.
Determining Factors: This closure is necessary to maintain public health and safety at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and to protect park resources and values. The use of powered skateboards or scooters currently presents unacceptable risks to visitors, including collisions between these devices and visitors, and the possibility of high-speed falls for the users themselves. The use of powered skateboards or scooters also adversely impacts the visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic, aesthetic, natural and cultural values preserved onsite and represented by the natural and cultural environment of the 19th century Hudson's Bay Company and US Army activities onsite.
(a)(2) The following areas are designated for a specific use or activity and/or the following conditions or restrictions are imposed on a specific use or activity:
Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:
Parking
Maintenance and repair of any vehicle except for emergencies is prohibited in all public use areas. No overnight parking is allowed at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
Determining Factors: Since overnight use and camping is prohibited in the park except by special use permit, there is no valid reason for a vehicle to remain in the park overnight.
Camping Areas
Camping is prohibited on all areas of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site unless under conditions of a Park Special Use Permit issued by the Superintendent or in association with a park managed special event authorized by the Superintendent. Please refer to §2.1 0 of this document for detailed camping area designations.
Determining Factors: Overnight camping within Fort Vancouver National Historic Site will adversely affect the park's natural, aesthetic, scenic and cultural values and impact the park's efforts to preserve historic buildings and landscapes representative of the natural and cultural environment documented by the Hudson's Bay Company and US Army in the 19th century. In addition, camping may cause an unintentional disturbance of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities.
Fires
Fires are not permitted in all areas of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, including the park’s waterfront, unless under conditions of a Park Special Use Permit issued by the Superintendent or in association with a park managed special event or program authorized by the Superintendent.
Determining Factors: Fires may pose a threat to the reconstructed fort, historic buildings, historic landscapes, park facilities and surrounding private property.
Conditions and Restrictions on Specific Uses or Activities:
Passenger Carrying Busses:
Engines must be shut down when not underway.
Determining Factors: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park. Due to the nature of the service provided by the shuttle busses, they are excluded from the requirement
36 CFR §1.6 - Activities that Require a Permit
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which require a permit from the Superintendent:
§1.5 (d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits:
Groups requesting private or educational tours
Leaving property unattended
Amplified music/noise
Outdoor ceremonies
Picnic: 50+ persons
§2.4(d) Carrying or possessing a weapon, trap, or net.
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (taking of plants, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals).
§2.10(a) Camping activities
Camping is prohibited in all areas of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site unless under conditions of a Park Special Use Permit issued by the Superintendent or in association with a park-managed special event authorized by the Superintendent.
§2.12 Audio Disturbances
(a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to sec. §2.50 or §2.51.
§2.17 Aircraft and air delivery
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means is prohibited other than at the Pearson Airfield, pursuant to the standard aircraft use of the airfield, consistent with the lease between the NPS and the City of Vancouver.
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52.
§2.38 Explosives
(a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents.
(b) Use or possess fireworks.
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event (and the playing of any organized sports requiring the setup of a play field or court), pageants, public spectator attractions, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events.
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views.
§2.52(c) Sale or distribution of printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising.
§2.61(a) Residing on federal lands.
§2.62 Memorialization
(a) Erection of monuments (requires approval from Regional Director).
(b) Scattering of human ashes from cremation.
§5.1 Advertisements - (Display, posting, or distribution.)
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (Requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
General Regulations
Part 2: Resource Protection, Public Use and Recreation
36 CFR §2.10 - Camping and Food Storage
(a) Camping is subject to the following established conditions:
Camping is prohibited on all areas of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site unless under conditions of a Park Special Use Permit or otherwise authorized by the Superintendent, or in association with a park-managed special event authorized by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §2.11 - Picnicking
Picnicking for groups over 25 people and/or with significant equipment including, but not limited to tents, caterings, etc. require a permit, refer to definition as well as §1.6 "Permits" of this compendium.
Certain areas have been closed to picnicking and are listed in §1.36 CFR 1.5(a)(1) and are demonstrated on the maps at the bottom of this page.
36 CFR §2.13 - Fires
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is prohibited, except under conditions of a Park Special Use Permit issued by the Superintendent or in association with a park-managed special event authorized by the Superintendent, or in the following areas and/or receptacles:
Fire Receptacles Allowed with an approved Special Use Permit (and only in areas where picnicking is allowed):
Propane fired Barbeque grills
(c) During periods of high fire danger, all areas of the park are closed to the lighting or maintaining of a fire.
36 CFR §2.15 - Pets
(a) (1) Possessing pets in public buildings, public transportation vehicles, and the following structures and/or areas is prohibited:
Pets are prohibited inside all public buildings of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, including the reconstructed stockade, visitor center, Pearson Air Museum, East & South Vancouver Barracks, and the Mcloughlin and Barclay Houses, except for service animals individually trained to do or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, or dogs who are working as volunteers to the NPS. Animals and pets performing as part of an authorized special event or activity may be allowed by approval of the Superintendent through a permit. Pets are prohibited on park grounds during large, highly attended special use events, such as: Campfires and Candlelight, Soldiers’ Bivouac and Memorial Day, Brigade Encampment, Christmas at Fort Vancouver, and the permitted Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration.
(a)(2) Pets must be physically restrained at all times such as by use of a leash no more than six (6) feet in length.
As such, pet owners may not set up training runs, agility training grounds, obstacle courses, or other forms of pet training or competition courses on park grounds without an approved Special Use Permit signed by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §2.16 - Horses and Pack Animals
(g) The use of horses or pack animals is not permitted in the park, unless approved by the Superintendent as part of a Special Use Permit or General Agreement.
36 CFR §2.20 - Skating, Skateboards and Similar Devices
The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed only in the following areas:
on hard surfaces wherever pedestrian traffic is allowed, with the exception of:
Inside of the Reconstructed Hudson's Bay Company Fort
In the Historic Replica Garden
All paved taxiways and the Pearson Field Runway
The paved tarmac pads to the west of Pearson Air Museum
Determining Factors: This closure is necessary to maintain public health and safety at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and to protect park resources and values. The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, or coasting vehicles in the above listed areas currently presents unacceptable risks to visitors, including collisions between these devices and visitors, and the possibility of high-speed falls for the users themselves. The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, or coasting vehicles also adversely impacts the visitor experience by negatively affecting scenic, aesthetic, natural and cultural values preserved onsite and represented by the natural and cultural environment of the 19th century Hudson's Bay Company and US Army activities onsite.
36 CFR §2.21 - Smoking
(a) The following portions of the park, buildings, structures and/or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
All government buildings, including the Visitor Center, the Visitor Center Annex, and the adjacent playground.
The interior of the reconstructed fort and the replica garden.
All areas of the McLoughlin House Unit other than areas where picnicking is allowed.
Trails during fire season as declared by state or municipal authorities.
Within 500 feet of any fuel storage dispensing facility.
Within 500 feet of any black powder storage facility.
Determining Factors: Smoking is prohibited in all National Park Service owned or administered buildings, structures, and vehicles within Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, except in areas reserved exclusively for and designated as smoking areas by the Superintendent. During periods of extreme fire danger, additional restrictions may be imposed. Smoking is prohibited to protect park resources, reduce the risk of fire, or prevent conflicts among visitor use activities. Smoking includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and e-cigarettes.
36 CFR §2.22 - Property
(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours is prohibited, except in the following locations or under the following conditions:
When permitted by the Superintendent.
Geocaching may be allowed at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site with approval from the Superintendent.
(b) Recreation fees and/or permits, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following areas and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
Entrance Fee Areas
An entrance fee is required for the reconstructed fort site.
The entrance fee is $10.00 for adults (16 and older) and youth (15 and under) are free. All entrance fees will be paid at the fee station inside the reconstructed fort, or by using the Your Pass Now on-line fee application that can be found on-line at: https://yourpassnow.com/r1s/
Free admission is granted to the following:
Visitors and/or carloads with the Federal Interagency Annual Pass, Senior Pass, Military Pass, Access Pass, Volunteer in Parks Pass, or the Every Kid Outdoors Pass.
Eligible Groups that have obtained a fee waiver approved by the Superintendent.
Those with the Superintendent's approval.
36 CFR §2.35 - Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances
(a)(3)(i) The following areas and facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
Except under the conditions of a Special Use Permit issued by the Superintendent, from 0001 hours, July 3, through 0600, July 5 annually, all park areas are closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or the possession of a bottle, can, or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken or the contents of which has been partially removed except within the park residence or within its immediate area.
The Historic Hangar and the Tex Rankin Theater at Pearson Air Museum does allow alcoholic beverage service for permitted events under the park’s Short-Term Lease provisions. These events are approved on a case-by-case basis, and the permittee is responsible for providing a state permitted alcohol server and for cleanup of all alcoholic beverage containers at the end of the permitted event period.
Determining Factors: Unregulated consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages at the annual Independence Day special event or at permitted events at the Historic Hangar would be inappropriate considering the large public gathering, the family-friendly nature of the events and space, and the location and the purpose for which the park is maintained or established. Permitted consumption and possession, in designated and fenced areas, can be controlled and managed to avoid conflicts between user groups.
36 CFR §2.38 - Explosives
(b) Using, or possessing fireworks and firecrackers is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit or in designated areas under the following conditions:
Using or possessing fireworks and firecrackers is prohibited, except by permit in conjunction with the community's annual Independence Day special event on July 4 annually.
36 CFR §2.50 - Special Events
(a) Sports events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events are allowed, provided there is a meaningful association between the park area and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the significance of the park area, and a permit therefore has been issued by the Superintendent. Similar events can be allowed in specific locations of the park where there is not a meaningful association between the park area and the events, if the area is one of the park's approved Short-Term Lease locations.
36 CFR §2.51 - Demonstrations
(b) Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within park areas designated as available under paragraph {c) {2) when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in designated park areas, provided that the requirements in §2.51 (b) are met. The 25 person maximum for the small group permit exception may be reduced pursuant to §2. 51 (b) (3).
(c)(2) The following locations are designated as available for demonstrations:
The lawn area just north of the Visitor Center across the road that leads to the Visitor Center parking lot;
The lawn on the northeast side of the Bandstand;
The Great Meadow north of E. 5th Street, across from the Pearson Headquarters Building;
The lawn west of the Pearson Air Museum complex;
The lawn at Waterfront Park, directly north of the paved pathway at the westernmost viewing deck;
The southern portion of the McLoughlin House National Historic Site unit, from the southern edge of the drinking fountain trail, to the sidewalk fronting 7th Street.
NOTE: Pursuant to §2.51(c) (2) the Superintendent has designated on maps, attached herein, and also available in the office of the Superintendent and by public notice, these locations designated as available for demonstrations and the sale or distribution of printed matter
36 CFR §2.52 - Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51 (c) (2) (see above) when the Superintendent has issued a permit.
Sale or distribution activity by 25 persons or fewer may be conducted without a permit in designated park areas, provided that the requirements in §2. 52(b) are met. The 25 person maximum for the small group permit exception may be reduced for a designated available area, pursuant to §2.52(b) (3).
36 CFR §4.21 - Speed Limits
(a), (b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
The speed limit on all park roads is 15 miles per hour.
36 CFR §4.30 - Bicycles
(a) The use of a bicycle or e-bike is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas, and on routes designated for bicycle use. Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle or e-bike use are listed in §1.5 of this document.
The following additional routes, in developed areas or special use zones, have been designated for bicycle, kick scooter or e-bike use:
Spruce Mill Trail (paved trail)
Landbridge Trail (paved trail)
Waterfront Trail (paved trail)
The following guidelines are in place for the use of E-bikes within Fort Vancouver National Historic Site:
The Term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.). E-bikes are allowed in Fort Vancouver Fort Vancouver National Historic Site where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited. A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR park 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified, in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
Comply with the requirements in 36 CFR 1.7.3. Comply with all applicable laws implicated by the compendium action, including the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). The compendium action will ordinarily fall within the categorical exclusion specified in section 3.3.D.3 of the National Park Service NEPA Handbook for which documentation is required.
Determining Factors: Bicycle or e-bikes use in these areas are consistent with the protection of the park's cultural, natural, scenic and aesthetic values, safety considerations and management objectives and will not disturb wildlife or park resources.
Images
Areas off limits to picnicking at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site include the East Vancouver Barracks area, areas south of E Fifth Street except for areas north of Pearson Air Museum, and parts of the Columbia River waterfront north of SE Columbia Way.
NPS Photo
First Amendment Rights areas are shown here with red dots. Four locations are marked west of Pearson Air Museum, in the Great Meadow, near the park Visitor Center, and near the Bandstand on the Parade Ground.
NPS Photo
First Amendment Areas at the McLoughlin House Unit of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site are located at the south end of the site.
NPS Photo
Picnicking is allowed at the McLoughlin House Unit in the area behind the McLoughlin House and in the south end of the site.
