Commercial Use Authorizations

 

A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service. Section 418 of the National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-391) authorizes the NPS to issue CUAs to authorize a private person, corporation, or other entity to provide commercial visitor services in parks. Without a CUA, other permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, such activities are prohibited under 36 CFR § 5.3.

A CUA is required if you, as an individual, organization, or company, provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for members, clients, or the public that:

  • take place at least in part in Point Reyes National Seashore,
  • use park resources, and
  • result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit.

The National Park Service will only issue CUAs for commercial activities and visitor services that:

  • are determined to be an appropriate use of Point Reyes National Seashore;
  • will have minimal impact on Point Reyes National Seashore’s resources and values; and
  • are consistent with Point Reyes National Seashore's purpose, management plans, policies, and regulations.

Businesses and individuals may not conduct commercial activities in the park without a valid CUA or in a manner inconsistent with the terms of the CUA.

General information about CUAs in the National Park Service (NPS) can be found at the NPS's Commercial Use Authorizations website.

Information on Obtaining a CUA

Beginning in January 2024, Point Reyes National Seashore moved to an online CUA system for all applications and reporting processes. The online system is designed to make the application and reporting process more streamline for applicants and NPS staff. All NPS units will be using the same application process by 2025.

Applications for Point Reyes National Seashore CUAs for 2024 are now being accepted through the online system. To help applicants learn the new application process, the National Park Service Commercial Services Program has developed a video to demonstrate how a business can apply for a CUA permit through the online system:

 
Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details
Duration:
18 minutes, 31 seconds

This video shows how a business can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) permit through an online system.

 

 

Applying for a CUA

Applications for a CUA can be made through the on-line system only. Begin the application process.

Companies that held a CUA in Point Reyes National Seashore in 2023 are required to submit their Annual Report before a CUA can be issued for 2024. See "What are reporting requirements?" above for information on how to file your 2023 Annual Report.

 

CUA Office contact information

Send the CUA Office a message with any questions about obtaining a CUA, submitting a report, using the on-line system, or to find out what type of services are permitted.

Important Links

Permits & Reservations

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Annual Report Forms

Monthly Report Forms

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Last updated: February 2, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Phone:

415-464-5100
This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (e.g., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc.), or speak with a ranger. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call.

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