Permits

A special park use is a short-term activity that occurs within a National Park Service (NPS) unit and provides a benefit to an individual, group, or organization rather than the general public. The NPS may authorize uses that do not conflict with law or policy, do not harm park resources, do not threaten safety, and do not interfere with normal park operations or visitor use.

Activities Requiring a Permit

Special Events

These include sporting events, pageants, entertainment, ceremonies, large group camps, rendezvous, and public spectator activities.

Another type of special event is Aircraft and Air Delivery which includes delivery or retrieval of people or objects by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means; removal of downed aircraft; or landing/flying of manned hot air balloons.

Filming, Still Photography, & Audio Recording

Under the EXPLORE Act (January 4, 2025), all filming and photography is regulated consistently across commercial, non‑commercial, student, and media activities.

Groups of eight or fewer generally do not need a permit if activities occur in public areas, use only hand‑carried equipment, do not require exclusive use, and do not impact resources or visitors. No permit or fees are required when filming is part of a separately permitted event (e.g., wedding, demonstration). When required, NPS may charge application, location, and cost‑recovery fees. All groups remain subject to park regulations prohibiting disturbance or resource damage.

First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are protected rights. These activities may be regulated only to protect park resources and public safety.

Small Groups (25 people or fewer)

A permit is NOT required when:

• The activity occurs in a designated First Amendment area.
• Only leaflets, booklets, and handheld signs are used.

A permit IS required when a small group:

• Wishes to demonstrate outside designated areas.


• Uses equipment (tables, banners, platforms, etc.).


• Uses amplification systems.


• Acts as an extension of another group already using its 25‑person limit.


• Wants guaranteed priority or location access.

Large Groups (More than 25 people)

Always require a Special Use Permit, even in designated First Amendment areas.

Examples: demonstrations, vigils, petition gathering, distribution of printed matter, religious services.

The NPS does not require fees, insurance, bonds, or financial conditions for First Amendment activities. Applications are processed within 10 business days.

Right-of-Way (ROW) Permits

A ROW permit allows a utility to pass over, under, or through NPS property. Required for electrical lines, sewer lines, canals, telephone lines, broadband equipment, fiber optics, microwave systems, and similar installations.

Other Activities

Additional activities may require a Special Use Permit. The Superintendent's Compendium provides the complete list.

Use Restrictions

• No special use activities are permitted inside historic structures.


• No activities allowed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Day.


• The park supports only one special use activity per day; applications processed first‑come, first‑served.

Permit Fees
Application Fee

$150 for all applications except First Amendment activities (non‑refundable). Complex requests may incur additional cost‑recovery charges.

Monitoring & Management Fees

NPS must recover costs for personnel and resources needed to support the event. Estimated charges are provided prior to approval.

Filming & Photography Location Fees

Required in addition to other fees. Examples:

• Motion picture/video: $0–$750/day depending on group size
• Still photography/audio: $50–$250/day depending on group size

• Insurance or a performance bond may be required, depending on activity risk.

Permit Conditions

• Commercial general liability insurance typically required ($1M minimum).


• United States must be listed as “additionally insured.”


• Bonds may be required for events with potential impacts.


• <

Scheduling of Events

Requests are reviewed first‑come, first‑served up to one year in advance. No event is reserved until a completed application and fee are received.

Special Park Use Permit Application Process

Step 1: Submit the Application

Download and submit the appropriate form by email or mail. Submit at least 30 days in advance.

Step 2: Pay the Application Fee

Applicants receive a Pay.gov link to submit the $150 fee. Cost‑recovery estimates provided if applicable.

Step 3: Application Review

The park will approve or deny the request within two weeks of receiving a complete submission. Insurance requirements will be communicated upon approval.

Step 4: Permit Preparation & Signature

Once all documents are complete, the applicant signs the permit, then the Superintendent signs to finalize issuance.

Step 5: Permit in Hand

The applicant must have the fully signed permit onsite during the activity.

Contact Information

Natchez National Historical Park
Special Use Coordinator
640 South Canal Street, Suite E
Natchez, MS 39120

Phone: [phone]

email us

Forms

• Application for Filming, Still Photography, and Audio Recording


• Application for First Amendment Activities


• Application for Special Events