Laws & Policies

General Regulations

There are a variety of rules and regulations that dictate how the site must be managed. These regulations help us protect site resources while also providing visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience.

Federal Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the Superintendent's Compendium provide a complete listing of site rules and regulations. 36 CFR parts 1-199 pertain to all National Park Service areas. You can view 36 CFR on the e-CFR website, which is a currently updated electronic version of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). To view, select "Title 36 - Parks, Forests, and Public Property" and then click on parts 1-199, which are regulated by the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior.

Local Rules

The Superintendent's Compendium is reviewed annually and provides a list of regulations under the discretionary authority of the superintendent.

 

Temporary First Amendment/Public Assembly Area, May 1-3, 2026

Temporary Change of Superintendent’s Compendium of Regulations First Amendment Area
Ellis Island - May 1 - 3, 2026

From May 1 through May 3, 2026, the following temporary change to the Superintendent’s Compendium of Regulations for Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island will be in effect for the temporary change in location of the Ellis Island First Amendment Area:

I. 36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES

(a)(2) The following area is designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:

Pursuant to 36 CFR 2.5(c)(2), the following location is available for demonstration activities as defined in 36 CFR 2.51(a) and 2.52(a):

The west plaza area (hardscape) adjacent to the Ellis Immigration Museum main entrance ramp and portico into the museum (left side as you are facing the main entrance).