Research Permits

A person in a climbing helmet and harness stands in the canopy of an old-growth tree far over a fern-covered forest floor
Researchers working in Olympic National Park's Hoh Rain Forest examine how canopy soils contribute to old-growth tree resiliency and ecosystem function.

Courtesy Irene Yee

A permit is required for most scientific activities that involve fieldwork or collection of specimens or samples, or have the potential to disturb resources or visitors in National Park System areas.

Researchers interested in conducting research in a park should submit an application through the Research Permit and Reporting System. All applications are reviewed within each park for scientific integrity and compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHPS), and other applicable laws and policies. It is recommended that you apply for a research permit at least 90 days in advance of your first planned research activities. Some research activities may require additional permits or approvals by other governing bodies before the NPS can issue a permit for research in a park.

Please contact the park research permit coordinator for further information about this process.

Additional Requirements for Certain Situations

Contact the Research Permit Coordinators

Last updated: September 11, 2024