Special Use Permits

Fisherman wading through the Pecos River

NPS Photo

What is a Special Use Permit (SUP)?

It is National Park Service policy to allow certain types of Special Park Uses provided they:

• are not in conflict with law or policy;
• will not result in derogation of the values and purposes for which the park was established;
• do not present a threat to public safety or property; and
• do not unduly interfere with normal park operations (including historic preservation maintenance work), resource protection, or visitor use.

In accordance with this, National Park Service sites will often require Special Use Permits (SUPs) for certain activities, to ensure the protection of natural and cultural resources, as well as to minimize conflicts between park visitors and other park users. At Pecos National Historical Park (Pecos NHP), an SUP may be required for activities such as:

• Commercial filming and photography
• Public and private gatherings
• Demonstrations and protests
• Weddings at the park
• Astrophotography

Any individual, group, society, or organization may apply for an SUP. The applicant for the permit must assume full responsibility and liability for the Special Park Use. Note that any individual or business leading commercial tours or other commercial enterprises within Pecos NHP boundaries needs to complete a different application and approval process; see the Commercial Use Authorization page for more information.

How much does an SUP cost?

The base application fee for an SUP is $100 unless stated otherwise and is non-refundable. Additional fees for monitoring, administrative costs, and restoration may apply. Pecos NHP does not charge an entrance fee, so there is no additional per person costs for event participants, attendees, etc.

How do I apply for an SUP?

If you are not familiar with Pecos National Historical Park, first visit the park to determine whether it is the appropriate location for your intended use.

All Special Use Permit requests must go through the Special Park Use Coordinator. It is recommended you contact them well in advance by email at [e-mail] or phone at 505-757-7213. They will then be able to provide the forms, share any special conditions or considerations, and discuss how the park can assist you. You can review a copy of the SUP application form here: Special Use Permit.

Once you have communicated with the Special Park Use Coordinator, you may be directed to complete an SUP application. Note that:

• In compliance with the requirements of the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, the applicant must submit his or her Social Security number or federal tax ID number when completing the permit application.
• Submission of the application form and fee payment DOES NOT imply permission for any Special Park Use or event.
• Following receipt of an application for an SUP, an evaluation will be made of the requested activity. Denials will be communicated in writing.
• If the requested activity is approved, an SUP outlining terms and conditions governing the special use, NPS cost information, bond and insurance requirements (if any), and payment instructions will be sent to the applicant.
• Historic preservation work takes place during the summer months within and along the church. Scaffolding and other materials may be present and visible and will not be removed, adjusted, or altered for any special use permit. Winter, spring, and fall activities would typically avoid scaffolding work.

How do I apply for a filming permit?

Commercial filming and photography require an SUP, so interested applicants should follow the instructions above. Filming permits are issued on an individual basis based on the size of the project (movie, commercial, etc.), how much staffing is needed for supervision, and how much time will be involved. Additional fees may be required depending on the situation.

How long does it take to get an SUP?

Allow a minimum of 30 days for evaluation by the park staff before the start date for your activity in the park. All efforts will be made to expedite the permitting process; however, permit completion may take longer than four weeks. No SUP will be considered more than one year in advance.

Contact Information

For more information about SUPs or to begin the application process, contact the Special Park Use Coordinator at 505-757-7213 or [e-mail].