Special Use Permits

 

A Special Use Permit may be required for specific activities at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. These activities include organized gatherings such as weddings or religious services, public assemblies and demonstrations, special events, filming, and certain commercial activities like guided hikes or still photography. A special park use 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 National Park Service (NPS) in order to protect park resources and the public interest;
• is not prohibited by law or regulation;
• is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the NPS; and is not managed under a concession contract or lease.

Please note that while a special park use may meet the above criteria, not all activities will be approved. Permit approvals are made based on available park resources, visitation levels, and potential impacts.

Activities Requiring a Special Use Permit

The following list includes, but is not limited to, activities that may require a permit. Please contact the permit office to inquire whether your requested activity will need a Special Use Permit.

Building Use for Meetings and Workshops

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller has a variety of facilities that can be reserved for meetings, workshops, and other events, including the Forest Center and Carriage Barn Visitor Center conference room.

Commerical Filming and Photography

Commercial filming and some still photography within the park requires a special use permit. See Commercial Filming & Photography to determine if you need to connect with the Permit Office.

Weddings and Ceremonies

Permits can be issued for weddings and other ceremonies in a number of outdoor locations within the park.

First Amendment Activities

Special use permits are issued for First Amendment protected activities, such as demonstrations and religious services, involving groups of more than 25 people. There is no fee for these permits, and they are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. See below for for further information regarding first amendment activities.

Other Activities

Other activities that require Special Use Permits include contests, races, reunions, and guided hikes. Activities that utilize park resources for monetary gain or profit fall under a different category and require a Commercial Use Authorization.

Permit Application Forms

Applications for a permit must be submitted at least two weeks in advance and cannot be accepted more than one year prior to your event. While most applications will fall within this timeframe, complex uses or activities may require additional time for processing. Please review the following applications to find the version that best suits your request. If you are unsure which application to use, contact the Permit Office.

Note: Permits may require an application fee, cost recovery charges, a location fee, and/or proof of liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured.

• Permit Application, short form
• Permit Application, long form

To Apply:

1. Download and complete the appropriate application form above. Applications must include:
   • Applicant information, including name, contact information, and organization details
   • Information about the proposed activity, including purpose, requested dates, activity location, and number of participants
   • Signature of the applicant
   • Application fee (if required)
2. Submit application to [e-mail].

Application Review

Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and are typically answered within one week. If approved, the permit office will respond with an email confirming the dates and details of your permit, along with an attached permit for your signature. Reservations are not confirmed until all fees have been paid, which can be completed via check or credit card.

Additional Information on First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations

The term “demonstrations” encompasses a variety of activities, including picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and other forms of conduct aimed at communicating or expressing views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, which are likely to attract a crowd or onlookers.

The park provides a designated location where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment rights through demonstrations. This location can accommodate only one group at a time. A non-fee permit is required for groups larger than 25 people to reserve a First Amendment location, or if the National Park Service determines that further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed matter and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donations are permitted in designated areas of the park. While hand-carried signs are allowed, the use of stages, platforms, or structures is prohibited.

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in the designated First Amendment area, provided they do not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations, special events, or park programs. Site use is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to permit holders.

If you do not meet the criteria that would require a permit, you are welcome to demonstrate in the designated location. For additional questions, please contact the Permit Office.

Contact Information

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Permit Office
[e-mail]