Policy-Related Regulations

In general, regulations are mechanisms for implementing laws and enforcing policies established by the Director.

The most familiar regulations associated with the National Park Service are those published in title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations. They are basically detailed statements of how policies will be applied to the people who use the parks.

We also publish regulations to tell the public how we will administer various programs, such as

  • concession activities
  • the National Register of Historic Places
  • the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

Once published, regulations apply to everyone—they are non-discretionary, and their violation may invoke a fine or imprisonment, or both.

Last updated: July 6, 2023