How to Apply for a Permit at NACE

How to Apply for a Permit

Applying for a wedding, picnic area, or athletic field reservation permit at National Capital Parks ― East (NACE) is quick and easy! Here are the steps to apply:

Step 1: Download the Application Form

Step 2: Fill Out the Application
Complete the application form with as much detail as possible. Describe your event and include set-up and take-down times.

Step 3: Submit the Application

• By Mail: Send the completed application along with a non-refundable $50 application fee (by check or money order made out to “NACE”) to:

Attn: Special Use Permits
National Capital Parks ― East
1900 Anacostia Drive, SE
Washington, DC 20020

• In Person: You can also submit your application and non-refundable permit application fee in person at the same address, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

After You Apply

• Our staff will review your application and may call you if they have questions.

• You will receive a phone call or email once your final permit is ready for pick-up.

• Applications at NACE headquarters are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be submitted no earlier than one year before your event (including set-up and take-down). All other permits can be issued through recreation.gov.

What Happens When Your Application is Received?

• Permits staff will review your application to determine if the activity supports the park's mission and does not harm park resources or disturb other visitors. They will also review the availability of your preferred date, if the date is not available, they will offer alternative dates.

• If your request is not for a picnic, athletic field, or wedding permit, you will be referred to the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Permits Management Program office.

For Picnics, Athletic Fields, or Weddings

To help us review your request, please include simple details about what you’re planning—like how big it is, how it will run, and how you’ll take care of the park. This helps us make sure everything goes smoothly for you and for other visitors.

Picnic and athletic field permits can be reserved for up to four months.

Food Trucks

Interested in having a food truck at your event? All food vendors must apply for a Commerical Use Authorization. If you request a food truck, you will be directed to the approved concessionaire for the National Capital Region, currently RGI. If RGI is unable to provide the service, refer to National Capital Parks — East guidance on Commercial Use Authorizations.

If Your Permit is Approved

• If all requirements are met, a permit will be issued.

• Permits issued at National Capital Parks ― East HQ must be picked up in person. You will receive a call informing you that the permit is ready for pickup.

• Permits from recreation.gov are issued immediately via email upon payment.

• The permit will outline the conditions you must follow. Violating those conditions or any laws may lead to permit revocation.

• You must keep a copy of the permit on-site during your event

After the Event

At the end of your event, permits staff will inspect the area for damage and proper cleanup. Any reported damage or cleanup needs will be documented and may lead to additional charges through cost recovery.

Permits, Fees, and Cost Recovery

• Fees: Applicants will be informed about all fees, including those for administration, staff oversight, and site restoration.

• Staff Monitoring: Most permits for picnics, recreational fields, or weddings do not need staff monitoring or U.S. Park Police (USPP) unless the event is large or presents safety concerns.

  • If monitoring by USPP or other staff is needed, we will send you an estimate and invoice you separately.

• Application Fee: The application fee is $50, payable by check or money order. Payments are nonrefundable and must be received before we begin reviewing the permit.

Criteria for Waiving the Application Fee

The application fee may be waived in the following situations:

• Charging and collecting fees is not cost-effective.

• A waiver is appropriate as a courtesy to a foreign government or international organization.

• The permittee is a state, local, or federal agency, or a Native American tribe or group.

• The Superintendent determines that the proposed use will support the mission of the National Park Service (NPS) or promote public safety, health, or welfare.

If you believe your permit application fits into one of the categories listed above, you can request to have the application fee waived by writing to the permit handler. In your message, explain how your request meets one or more of the categories.

Prohibited Activities

The following activities are prohibited:

• Moon bounces and similar air-filled devices are prohibited because they can be unsafe and can damage park resources.

• Pony rides and other animal rides are not permitted unless specifically authorized by the Superintendent or their designated representative.

• Smoking cannabis is not allowed on federal property.

• The use of balloons (helium, hot air, and water balloons) is prohibited unless written authorization is granted by the Superintendent or their representative for scientific or research purposes.

• The use, sale, or possession of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in the park, except in designated areas of approved concessions contracted by the NPS or in limited areas with specific permits issued by the Superintendent.

• Asking for gifts, money, goods, or services is prohibited.

• The Anacostia Skating Pavilion cannot be reserved for events, and any activities in the pavilion must not interfere with skating at any time.