Applying for a Permit
Do I Need a Permit?
Any and all vow exchanges, elopements, ceremonies, weddings, or special events, etc., require a Special Use Permit. This is regardless of the size of the group, whether or not it is “officiated,” or if papers are being signed. If you are entering the park with a photographer only to take photographs and no vow exchange, signing of documents, or union is being witnessed, then no permit is required.
If you are conducting a "mock" ceremony for the sake of photography you may still be required to obtain a permit. Please contact our office to discuss further before submitting an application.
Why Do I Need a Permit?
The National Park Service is required by law to protect and conserve all resources under their care including scenery, wildlife, and tranquility. As such, it is sometimes necessary to regulate or limit activities within the park to reduce strain on park resources and provide a positive experience for all visitors. Therefore, the National Park Service has the authority to require a permit for certain activities, including weddings.
Can I Get Married Anywhere in the Park?
Due to increased demand and strain on park resources, we have limited the areas for which we issue wedding permits within the park. See our Wedding Locations page for more details. You can see pictures of some of these locations on Glacier National Park’s Flickr site.
How Do I Get a Permit?
Step 1: Download a Special Use Permit application.
Step 2: Use the information found here and on the wedding location information page to fill out the application with as much detail as possible.
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Be sure to provide exact locations and times. Responses such as “various” or “Two Medicine” are not acceptable locations and “sunrise” or “afternoon” are not acceptable times. Be specific. Please provide alternate locations/dates/times to fall back on in case your first choice is unavailable.
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Be sure to include your photographer's name and contact information, if you plan on using one.
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Under “Equipment” list anything that is not on your person that you might want to bring to the wedding location/ceremony site. Examples include camera equipment, bouquet, chairs, musical instruments, speakers, etc. Please keep in mind there are restrictions for the individual locations.
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Be sure to list all participants in your people and vehicle counts, including the wedding/elopement couple, officiant, photographers/videographers, and all guests (regardless of age).
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Be aware that only a certain number of vehicles are permitted; how many are allowed depends on the total number of participants. Going over established limits listed in the permit is strictly prohibited. Permitted number of vehicles per number of participants are as follows:
- Up to 20 participants: 4 vehicles
- 21–60 participants: 6 vehicles
- 61–100 participants: 10 vehicles
- 100–250 participants: 15 vehicles
Note: If you plan on using a commercial/charter vehicle, be sure to include this information next to the number of vehicles.
Step 3: Email your completed application (word or pdf format preferred) to glac_sup@nps.gov. Application packets, which consist of the application and non-refundable application fee must be received at the park a minimum of 20 business days before the requested permit date or your permit request can be denied. Applications will not be accepted more than one year before your event.
Step 4: Pay the $125 non-refundable application fee electronically by visiting Pay.gov. Credit card is preferred. Do not submit payment via check or cash. Complete the "Glacier NP Special Park Uses Fees" form. It is preferred if the name used on Pay.gov matches the name on the SUP application. You will receive a confirmation email from Pay.gov; retain this for your records. You do not need to forward this confirmation. The Special Park Uses office will automatically receive an email confirmation/receipt of the payment.
Step 5: Once your application and payment has been received and once we get to your application, we will reach out via phone or email. After the details are locked in, you will receive the preliminary permit to review and sign. Your permit is not valid until it has been signed by you and an NPS official. Applications are processed in the order they are received. Your patience is appreciated.
- You have 30 day from when we sent your preliminary permit for review and signature to return it to us or your permit will be cancelled and you will need to reapply.
- Your signature certifies that all personal information is correct, that you have read and understood the permit conditions, and that you will abide by them. Once the permit is finalized, no changes can be made to the permit except those necessary due to an unanticipated park closure.
Step 6: You will receive a copy of the fully executed permit, signed by the authorizing official, via email.
Step 7: Be sure to have a printed copy of the fully executed permit on hand on the day of your event. Please share the permit with any service providers including photographer, videographer, officiant, or event planner. They, too, are required to understand and abide by the regulations/permit conditions.
If you decide against having your wedding in the park after the permit has been issued, please contact the Special Park Uses office to cancel your permit so the location and date can be made available to another applicant.
