Special Use Permits

Permits are required for all activities outside of the typical park uses, such as a wedding.

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If you are planning an event or activity that is beyond the scope of a typical visit, you may need a permit.

Special Park Use Permits
Special Use Permits authorize activities that benefit individuals, groups or organizations, rather than the public at large. Examples include: weddings, memorial services, special assemblies, and First Amendment activities.

The National Park Service may permit a special park use providing the activity will not cause derogation of park resources or values, visitor experiences, or the purpose for which the park was established. Primary consideration will be given to potential resource damage, anticipated disruption of normal public use, and previously approved permitted activities.

Important Notice
A minimum of 2 weeks is required to review special park use permit requests. The clock begins the day the completed permit application is received with the $40 permit fee. Once management reviews the application, they will contact the permittee.

In addition to the application fee, other fees may be charged. A National Park Service employee may be assigned as an on-site monitor or an employee may spot-check activities to ensure adherence to the conditions of the permit and to rules and regulations. The permittee will be billed for all costs incurred including employee overtime.

First Amendment Activities
A special use permit is required for public assembly or the sale or distribution of printed materials in National Park Service areas when group size is greater than 25. All First Amendment activities must take place at the designated area. Contact the permit coordinator for details.

All activities are limited to daylight hours. All park regulations must be followed and no resource damage is allowed. Permits for First Amendment activities may take up to ten days to approve or deny.

Customary permit fee requirements are not applied to First Amendment activities.

Application
For simple activities that are smaller in scale, applicants may download the short form.
If the activity is fairly complex and requires more explanation, download the long form. For more information or to receive a form by mail, contact the Special Park Uses Coordinator at [phone] ext. 213.