Research Permits

Black-Chinned Red Salamander
Black-Chinned Salamander in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Photo By Shannon Welch

Research in NPS sites requires a permit. Review of and decision on applications normally takes two to four weeks but is dependent on the project scope and complexity. Other state and federal agencies in the region may also require permits for work under their jurisdiction. Please visit the NPS' research permit and reporting system to learn how to secure a permit.

It is important that you follow best practices for keeping yourself and the park resources safe:

  • Leave No Trace. Please be considerate of your impact upon the habitat and non-study organisms.

  • Clean and sterilize your collecting equipment before visiting the parks and between sites within the parks, especially when working in aquatic and wetland habitats. This prevents the introduction of non-native species and disease organisms. Evidence shows that the felt-soled waders are too difficult to adequately sterilize and can serve as a transport vehicle for propagules of invasive diatoms and other organisms. To reduce the risks of accidentally introducing invasive aquatic species, the park encourages anglers and researchers to use the new rubber/Vibram-soled wading boots and to follow good cleaning procedures (cleaning, sterilizing, and drying) of equipment prior to using park streams.

  • Consider the safety and experience of other park visitors by conducting your work away from trail heads, roads, and other areas with high visitor concentrations.

  • Learn more about safe practices within the RLC's network parks.

Research Permits

Last updated: May 9, 2023