What's New in Policy?

This page highlights draft policies that are open for public comment and recently approved policies.

Approved in 2026

April 30, 2026
Policy Memorandum 26-01: Childcare Centers
This Policy Memorandum provides guidance about how the NPS oversees childcare centers operating in units of the National Park System. It supersedes and replaces the guidance in Special Directive 85-1, Day Care Facilities.

April 13, 2026
Director’s Order #20: Agreements
This Order updates policy and procedures for formalizing relationships with other entities through six specific agreement types:

1. Federal Intragovernmental Agreements
2. Reimbursable Service Agreements with Non-Federal Entities
3. Financial Assistance Agreements
4. Cooperative Management Agreements
5. General Agreements
6. Funding Agreements with Self-Governance Tribes

It also clarifies appropriate uses of General Agreements and Cooperative Management Agreements, instruments unique to the NPS. This Order supersedes and replaces the previous version dated July 23, 2003, and Policy Memorandum 08-01.

Approved in 2025

September 12, 2025
Director’s Order #42: Accessibility of National Park Service Facilities, Programs, Services, and Activities
This Order provides updated NPS policies and procedures for ensuring visitors with disabilities can access NPS facilities, transportation systems, information and communication technology, interpretive and educational programs, and services. It reflects the current understanding of access for people with disabilities, particularly access to recreation, and is consistent with accessibility laws and regulations. It supersedes and replaces the original Director's Order #42: Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities, dated November 3, 2000.

Open for Comment

There are no NPS policies open for public comment at this time.