An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you've safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Electronic copy of this compendium document may be made available upon request by e-mail.
A. Introduction
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park system, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all the areas of the national Park System.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at:
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) §102701 (Organic Act of 1916, as amended) to “…regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks…which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment for future generations” (54 U.S.C. §100101). In addition, the NPS Organic Act allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the use and management of the parks, monuments, and reservations under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service” (54 U.S.C. §100501).
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970 (54 U.S.C. §100101-101301), Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.
In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
54 U.S.C. §100501 defines the National Park System as”…any areas of land and water now or hereafter administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, than that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
Is there use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United State Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time.
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the header of this web page, and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
Copies of the Compendium are available at: Steamtown National Historic Site, 150 S. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, 18503. It may also be found online at https://www.nps.gov/stea/learn/management/lawsandpolicies.htm.
B. Superintendent's Compendium
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Steamtown National Historic Site. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES
(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours:
The Park is open daily except on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Outside of the visiting hours, all areas of the Park are closed to public access unless a special use permit is granted.
Regular Visitor Hours: Effective the first Saturday of May through the third Sunday of November.
Park regular visitor hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except the section of the park known as Renaissance Park, located at 500 Lackawanna Avenue in Scranton.
Renaissance Park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. April 1 through November 30, weather permitting.
Winter/Off Season Hours: effective the third Monday of November through the Friday preceding the first Saturday in May.
Park winter/off season visitor hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday (closed on Monday and Tuesday) except the section of the park known as Renaissance Park, located at 500 Lackawanna Avenue in Scranton.
Renaissance Park is closed December 1 through March 31, weather permitting.
Notes: The Park’s museums and grounds, including outdoor exhibits and parking lot areas, close promptly at closing time.
During severe weather events, the Park may delay opening, close early or close entirely. Park closing and/or delayed opening notices are available by visiting the park website at www.nps.gov/stea and looking under the “Alerts” tab.
Determination: Closure hours are posted for the protection of the resources, facilities, and public. The park is closed daily to deter underage drinking, vandalism and damage to resources, disorderly conduct, and unauthorized camping.
The following buildings are open to the public during regular visiting hours:
The Visitor Center
The Park Store
The “Cut-a-Way” Display portion of the 1902 Roundhouse
1937 Roundhouse
The History Museum
The 1902 Roundhouse and Technology Museum
The Technology Museum
The following buildings are open to the public for guided tours only:
The Locomotive Shop
The Mattes Street Tower
The Sand House
The Office and Storage Building (OSB)
The Mine Storage Building
The following buildings or portions of buildings are open only for business purposes only during normal park business hours and by appointment only:
The Maintenance of Way Building
The Administrative Headquarters (Office Storage Building 1st Floor)
The Cliff Street entrance road and the main visitor parking lot between the visitor center and the Electric City Trolley Museum are the only roads open to public traffic. All other roads and parking areas are closed to the general public.
Note: The Superintendent may close any park buildings, park areas and / or roadways to public access due to staff shortages, special activities, severe weather, mechanical failures, or for maintenance purposes. The public will be notified of these closures by the posting of signs, park employees, gates, barricades, the park website available at www.nps.gov/stea, and / or by calling 570-445-1898.
Determination: Dimly lit areas featuring heavy equipment and uneven walking surfaces and lack of accessibility characterize the closed areas of the park. For public safety and for the protection of resources, these areas will remain closed or have limited public access.
Closures:
The Steamtown NHS library, curatorial and archive facilities are available to researchers by virtual appointment only.
The following buildings or portions of buildings are closed to public visitation:
The 1902 & 1937 Roundhouse Floor (areas outside of designated visitor walkways)
The Penn Drive Building
The Mine Stores Building (foundation)
The Gas House
All closets and storage areas
All staff lunch rooms
The Theater
The use of e-cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) is subject to the same restrictions as tobacco smoking.
The Superintendent has determined that this policy applies to both indoor and outdoor areas. Research indicates that vaping aerosols have at least some level of risk for nearby people in areas with limited ventilation and people with compromised health conditions. Available published studies evaluating the potential hazardous effects of the natural and/or synthetic chemicals used in ENDS indicate that potential health effects exist for users and those exposed secondhand.
Traditional Geocaching is prohibited unless approved in advance by the park. (See also 36 CFR § 2.22 -- PROPERTY.)
The Superintendent has determined that due to concerns of unchecked development of traditional geocaches and the resultant potential for historical, archeological, and scenic impacts, and the concern of geocache placement in unsafe areas, public development of traditional caches is prohibited without the expressed approval by the Superintendent. Park-reviewed and -approved Geocaches, EarthCaches and ParkCaches, provide an acceptable alternative for the caching community when designed in coordination with the park staff.
Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:
(a)(2) The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:
Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed or remotely piloted aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Steamtown National Historic Site is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.
This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potential impacts include harming visitors, interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Reference Manual #60: Aviation Management, Chapter 12 – Uncrewed Aircraft Systems.
Federal Buildings
Closed circuit television systems (CCTVs) are in use at Steamtown National Historic Site within and around federal buildings to provide for the protection of employees and property.
In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Steamtown NHS uses Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.
The park’s use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use, which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards, will be to help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of terrorist attack and crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals. (RM-9, 26.1)
This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities (RM-9, 26.3.7), revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record/monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.). This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer-worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers. (RM-9, 26.1).
Operation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of recorded images and use of recorded images will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy and applicable laws and regulations. (RM-9, 26.1-26.4) No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views. (RM-9, 26.4.2)
Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.
Picnic Areas
One picnic area is located on the grassy area south of the Ticket and Information Booth.
Another is located near the front entrance to the Electric City Trolley Museum.
Public Assembly and Meeting Areas
Please refer to §1.6 for detailed permit requirements.
Please refer to §2.51 under III General Regulations for detailed area descriptions.
Public Use Limits:
The following restrictions and/or conditions are in effect for the specific uses or activities noted:
The following activities are prohibited in the Park
Climbing on railroad equipment, fences, bridges, historic structures, or objects.
Eating and drinking in the Theater, History Museum, Technology Museum, or Curatorial areas.
Note: In the interest of visitor safety, appropriate signs are placed in strategic locations throughout the park cautioning visitors that they are in an active rail yard and can expect rail equipment to move at any time in any direction.
The Superintendent has determined that climbing on cultural and historic structures is a violation of 36 CFR §1.5(a)(5): Walking on, climbing, entering, ascending, descending, or traversing an archeological or cultural resource. These public use limits are in place to protect the park resources and to provide for visitor safety during their visit.
The Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Railroad Authority (PNRRA) operates some of the train tracks within Steamtown NHS. Those tracks, which are intermingled with NPS-owned tracks are active, commercial tracks that prohibit pedestrians on or along their rails. All railroad tracks within Steamtown NHS are also subject to all federal railroad regulations.
Bicycle Use: Bicycles use is prohibited on park sidewalks, boardwalks, and railroad tracks. (See also 36 CFR § 4.30.)
The Superintendent has determined that this is necessary in order to protect park resources from unnecessary damage and to provide for visitor safety.
E-Bikes: The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 hp).
E-bikes are allowed in Steamtown National Historic Site where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following section of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Steamtown National Historic Site is governed by State law, which is adopted and made part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
Passenger Carrying Buses
Engines must be shut down when not underway.
All buses must use the designated bus drop off for passenger loading and unloading.
All buses must use the designated parking facilities when parking.
The Superintendent has determined that the idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the visitor experience. These conditions are established to provide public safety and protect park resources.
Recreational Activities
Playing Frisbee, baseball, soccer, football, golf, basketball and any other sports or activities are prohibited if they could prohibit other park uses, harm park visitors, or damage resources.
Camping is prohibited in the park unless a special use permit is granted. (See also 36 CFR § 2.10.)
Operating or using model aircraft within the Park boundary is prohibited unless specifically permitted by the Superintendent.
The Superintendent has determined that these restrictions are established to protect park resources from damage, protect park visitors, ensure multiple and compatible uses, and support the mission of the park.
ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
A Special Use Permit may be obtained by downloading an application from the Permits & Reservations page. All applications will be reviewed by the park's permit coordinator and recommendations made to the park superintendent.
Note: Violations under this section must be cited under §1.6(g)(1) or (2).
§1.5(d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits:
Exceptions to Closures and Public Use Limits;
Commercial Uses (organized trips or group tours, events, mobile food vendors, etc.);
Weddings.
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (Taking of plants, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
The taking of plants, wildlife, rocks or minerals is prohibited except in accordance with other regulations of Chapter I of 36 CFR or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a specimen collection permit.
§ 2.5(b) Specimen collecting, research, and some science education activities.
Permits are available from the chief of resource management
Please refer to 36 CFR §2.5 RESEARCH SPECIMENS
Note: When permits are required for scientific activities pertaining solely to cultural resources, including archeology, ethnography, history, cultural museum objects, cultural landscapes, and historic and prehistoric structures, other permit procedures apply.
§ 2.10(a) Camping in the park
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.10(a) CAMPING AND FOOD STORAGE
§ 2.12 Creating Audio Disturbances:
(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
(a)(4) Operating a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to § 2.50 or § 2.51
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.12 AUDIO DISTURBANCES
§ 2.13 (a)(1) Fires outside of designated areas.
Fires outside of designated areas are prohibited except with the approval of the superintendent or through the conditions of a Special Use Permit.
Special Use Permit applications are submitted to the superintendent’s office and require a minimum of 72 hours to process.
Fires are permitted in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR §2.50 and/or 2.51 which specifically authorized such activity under the conditions of the permit.
Under an approved permit a fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – create serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
§ 2.17 Aircraft and air delivery:
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means
(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.17 AIRCRAFT AND AIR DELIVERY
§ 2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services: (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under § 2.50, § 2.51 or § 2.52)
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.37 NONCOMMERCIAL SOLICITING
§ 2.38 Using or possessing explosives:
(a) Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents
(b) Using or possessing fireworks
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.38 EXPLOSIVES
§ 2.50 Conducting a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, or similar events
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office. A complete application for a Special Use Permit or a Commercial Use Authorization must be submitted a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the proposed activity. Proposed large events or activities that have the potential to adversely affect the human environment, including park operations, will require a longer review period.
Pursuant to § 1.6(e), the superintendent shall include in a permit the terms and conditions that the superintendent deems necessary to protect park resources or public safety and may also include terms or conditions established pursuant to the authority of any other section of this chapter.
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.50(a) SPECIAL EVENTS
§2.51 Conducting a public assembly, meeting, gathering, demonstration, parade or other public expression of views outside of Designated First Amendment areas (see also Section III, General Regulations 36 CFR § 2.12 Creating Audio Disturbances, and 36 CFR § 2.50), or for group sizes over twenty-five (25) people, or for periods of fourteen (14) days or longer.
Permits, which shall detail location, restrictions and liability insurance requirements, are available through the superintendent’s office
§ 2.52 Selling or distributing printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office. To provide time for processing, permits must be requested a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.52(c) SPECIAL EVENTS
Note: During the small group exception for freedom of speech activities in the designated areas (see above), demonstrators may distribute and sell printed matter as long as the material’s “primary purpose is advocacy, definition or explanation of the group’s or individual’s political, religious, scientific or moral beliefs.”
§ 2.62 Memorialization
(a) Erecting monuments (requires approval from the Director of the National Park Service)
(b) Scattering ashes from human cremation
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 2.62 MEMORIALIZATION
§ 4.11 Exceeding established vehicle load, weight and size limits
Permits are available through the maintenance office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 4.11(a) VEHICLE LOAD, WEIGHT, AND SIZE LIMITS
§ 5.1 Displaying, posting or distributing advertisements
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 5.1 ADVERTISEMENTS
§ 5.2 Selling intoxicants in certain park areas
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 5.2(b) ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; SALE OF INTOXICANTS
§ 5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations)
Permits, available through the superintendent’s office, require a minimum of 72 hours for processing in advance of the event
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 5.3 BUSINESS OPERATIONS
§ 5.6 Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads (The superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available.)
Permits are available through the superintendent’s office. To provide time for processing, permits must be requested a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 5.6(c) COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
Please refer to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR § 5.7 CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS OR OTHER FACILITIES
36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
(a)(4) Using or possessing wood gathered from within the park area is prohibited.
(a)(5) Walking on, climbing, entering, ascending, descending, or traversing an archeological or cultural resource, monument, or statute is prohibited without special provisions provided by and approved by the superintendent
(b) Hiking or pedestrian traffic is restricted on and along active railroad tracks.
36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS
Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 930, firearms are prohibited in federal facilities. Federal facilities are defined as “buildings or parts thereof owned or leased by the federal government, where federal employees are regularly present for the purpose of performing their official duties.” Federal facilities are marked with signs at public entrances, and include the following buildings:
The Information Booth
The Park Store
The Visitor Center
The Theater
The History Museum
The Roundhouse
The Locomotive Shop
The Technology Museum
Penn Drive
The Sand House
The Maintenance of Way
The Office Storage
The Gas House
Trolley Museum (Silk Mill)
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. §§ 1a – 7b (P.L. 111-24 Section 512), park visitors may only carry firearms in National Parks if they are in compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Park visitors who can legally possess and carry firearms under federal, state, and local law are allowed to carry them in the park.
Pursuant to 36 CFR §2.3, hunting and trapping is not allowed in Steamtown NHS.
36 CFR §2.5 – RESEARCH SPECIMENS
(a) Taking plants, wildlife, rocks or minerals is prohibited except in accordance with other regulations of Chapter I of 36 CFR or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a specimen collection permit.
Collection permits are available through the superintendent’s office
36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE
(a) Camping is prohibited, except with the approval of the superintendent or through the conditions of a Special Use Permit.
Special Use Permit applications are submitted to the superintendent’s office and require a minimum of 72 hours to process.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING
Conditions for Picnicking:
Only picnicking that is incidental to a trip to the park is permitted.
Picnicking in connection with a special event or demonstration, for which permits have been issued pursuant to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR §2.50 and 2.51 is allowed.
36 CFR §2.12 – AUDIO DISTURBANCES
(a)(2) Operating a power saw in developed areas is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(a)(4) Operating a public address system is prohibited, except in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.
36 CFR 2.13 – FIRES
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Fires are permitted in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to Section III, General Regulations, 36 CFR §2.50 and/or 2.51 which specifically authorized such activity under the conditions of the permit.
Under an approved permit a fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – create serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE
(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is prohibited.
(a)(5) Bathing or washing food, clothing, dishes, or other property at public water outlets or fixtures is prohibited.
36 CFR §2.15 – PETS
(a)(1) Possessing pets in public buildings, public transportation vehicles, and the following structures and/or areas is prohibited, except to certified service animals:
All federal buildings are closed to pets.
Railyard
Plaza and Turntable area
The Renaissance Park portion of Steamtown NHS is closed to all pets.
NOTES: This subparagraph does not apply to service animals. A service animal is defined as any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.
This section does not apply to dogs used by authorized Federal, State and local law enforcement officers in the performance of their official duties.
(a)(3) Leaving a pet tied to an object is prohibited unless:
Pets may be tied to picnic tables or tethered in an area while the owner/handler is immediately present but only if the animal’s demeanor presents no chance of causing commotion or creating a hazardous situation to anyone. Pets cannot be left unattended.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
Pet excrement must be removed from the park completely or placed in a non-leaking container for deposit in a trash receptacle.
36 CFR §2.17 – AIRCRAFT and AIR DELIVERY
(a)(1) Operating or using aircraft on park lands is prohibited.
(a)(3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means is prohibited, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §2.18 – SNOWMOBILES
(c) The use of snowmobiles is prohibited.
36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES
(a) Skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, inner tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter sports are prohibited on park roads and in parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic
36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS, AND SIMILAR DEVICES
Use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, or coasting devices is prohibited.
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING
The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
Smoking is prohibited within all park buildings and within twenty-five (25) feet of entrances of all park buildings. The use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) is treated as the same as smoking in regard to this regulation. Additionally, smoking is prohibited within twenty-five (25) feet of all fuel and combustible gas storage areas.
Smoking, including all tobacco products, electronic smoking devices(such as electronic cigarettes), handheld vaporizers and items covered by the Controlled Substances Act, Title II of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 (to include for medical use) is prohibited in all other areas and buildings to protect park resources and reduce the risk of fire.
Per Policy Memorandum 15-03: Effective immediately, use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) will be treated as tobacco smoking. All provisions of Director’s Order #50D – including in particular sections 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 will apply to ENDS use. ENDS use will not be permitted within any Government owned or leased vehicle, including heavy equipment, watercraft, or aircraft.
The Superintendent has determined that Government owned vehicles includes all railroad equipment including but not limited to all locomotives and rail cars.
36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY
(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for ANY amount of time is prohibited, and may immediately be impounded.
Property determined to be left unattended may be impounded and inspected by authorized park officials or by the police.
Traditional Geocaches are prohibited unless approved in advance by the park superintendent.
The Superintendent has determined that unidentified property left behind interferes with visitor safety, orderly management of the park area, or presents a threat to park visitors and resources.
36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATION FEES
(a) Recreation fees shall be established as provided for in 36 CFR part 71
(b) Entering designated entrance fee areas or using specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or participating in group activities, recreation events, or other specialized recreation uses for which recreation fees have been established without paying the required fees and possessing the applicable permits is prohibited.
Fees are charged for public participation in interpretive train rides conducted as specialized recreation uses, authorized under 36 CFR § 2.23(b) and 36 CFR Part 71, with additional support from 54 U.S.C. § 101702(c) for interpretive content and services provided during the ride.
36 CFR §2.35 –ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all park buildings and on all park grounds, except in connection with a special event or demonstration for which a permit has been issued pursuant to 36 CFR §2.50 and 2.51.
The Superintendent has determined that these restrictions are established in order to prevent inappropriate activity considering the other uses of the location and the purpose for which it is maintained or established and are the minimum restrictions necessary to achieve such protection.
36 CFR §2.37 – NONCOMMERCIAL SOLICITING
Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions or a permit that has been issued under §2.50, §2.51, or §2.52.
36 CFR §2.38 – EXPLOSIVES
(a) Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(b) Using fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
36 CFR §2.50 – SPECIAL EVENTS
(a) Sports events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events are allowed, provided there is a meaningful association between the park area and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the significance of the park area, and a permit, therefore, has been issued by the superintendent.
36 CFR §2.51 – DEMONSTRATIONS AND DESIGNATED AVAILABLE PARK AREAS
(b) Demonstrations of twenty-five (25) people or fewer are allowed within the following designated First Amendment under paragraph (c)(2) areas without a permit. Demonstrations of more than twenty-five (25) people are allowed within designated park areas when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
(c)(2) The following areas have been established for demonstrations, see photo for reference:
For groups of twenty-five (25) people or less, the gravel area directly adjacent to the theater on the south side of the park next to the maintenance access road and the gravel and the gravel area directly in front of the Museum Store.
Bay #3 of the main parking lot is large enough to accommodate groups larger than twenty-five (25) people.
Note: First Amendment activities for fourteen (14) days or less and involving twenty-five (25) people or fewer do not require a Special Use Permit to demonstrate or distribute or sell printed matter under our First Amendment rights. However, First Amendment activities without a permit are restricted to the designated first amendment sites listed above.
The designated locations are in a prominent location near the visitor center that will allow individuals and groups to conduct demonstrations in a manner that will allow for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. At the same time, the designated location leaves ample space for visitors to enter and leave the visitor center safely and for the NPS to conduct administrative activities such as interpretive events.
36 CFR §2.52 -- SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER
(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than twenty-five (25) persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2) (see above). The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than twenty-five (25) people is allowed within the designated park areas when the superintendent has issued a permit.
36 CFR §2.61 – RESIDING ON FEDERAL LANDS
(a) Residing in park areas, other than on privately owned lands, is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, lease, or contract.
36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION
(a) The installation of a monument, memorial, tablet, structure, or other commemorative installation in a park area without the authorization of the Director is prohibited.
(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS
The speed limit throughout the park is 10 mph.
36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES
(a) The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas, and on routes designated for bicycle use. Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are listed in Section I, 36 CFR §1.5 of this document.
Bicycle use is prohibited on park sidewalks, boardwalks, railroad tracks, and in all park buildings.
The Superintendent has established this condition to protect park resources from unnecessary damage and to protect visitor safety.
36 CFR §4.31 – HITCHHIKING
Hitchhiking or soliciting transportation is prohibited.
36 CFR §5.1 – ADVERTISEMENTS
Commercial notices or advertisements shall not be displayed, posted, or distributed on federally owned or controlled lands within a park area unless prior written permission has been given by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §5.3 – BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as such may be specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited.
36 CFR §5.4 – COMMERCIAL PASSENGER-CARRYING MOTOR VEHICLES
(a) The commercial transportation of passengers by motor vehicle except as authorized under a contract or permit from the Secretary or his authorized representative is prohibited in certain parks. See 36 CFR §5.4(a) for more information.
36 CFR §5.6 – COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
(b) & (c) Using commercial vehicles on government roads within park areas when such use is in no way connected with the operation of the park is generally prohibited, and requires permission or a permit from the Superintendent.
36 CFR §5.7 – CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS OR OTHER FACILITIES
Such activities are prohibited, except in accordance with the provisions of a valid permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States.
Areas at Steamtown NHS for First Amendment Activities
Aerial view of Steamtown NHS's designated first amendment areas. These locations are in a prominent location near the visitor center that will allow individuals and groups to conduct demonstrations in a manner that will allow for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. At the same time, the designated location leaves ample space for visitors to enter and leave the visitor center safely and for the NPS to conduct administrative activities such as interpretive events.
NPS Photo
Uncrewed or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (ie: drones)
As referenced in the Steamtown NHS Superintendent's Compendium:
Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed or remotely piloted aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Steamtown National Historic Site is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.
This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potential impacts include harming visitors, interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Reference Manual #60: Aviation Management, Chapter 12 – Uncrewed Aircraft Systems.
Firearms in National Parks
The law governing possession of firearms inside a national park became effective on February 22, 2010. Visitors may possess firearms within a national park unit provided they comply with federal, state, and local laws.
The role of the responsible gun owner is to know and obey the federal, state, and local laws appropriate to the park they are visiting. Informationa about Pennsylvania gun laws can be found online: https://www.psp.pa.gov/firearms-information/Pages/Firearms-Information.aspx
Remember: federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances.
Refund Policy
In the event you miss your Short Train Ride (yard shuttle), we can put you on the next shuttle as long as the train is not sold out or was the last train of the day.
If you miss the train for a special event or excursion program, tickets cannot be refunded or transferred.
If you miss the return ride from a special event or excursion program, you are responsible for getting transportation back to your point of origin.
Last updated: January 20, 2026
Park footer
Contact Info
Mailing Address:
150 South Washington Avenue
Scranton,
PA
18503-2018
Phone:
(570) 445-1898
General park information. Phone monitored 9:30am-4pm, daily
