Special Use PermitsThe National Park Service may require a special use permit for certain activities to occur on park property. These include organized gatherings like weddings or church services, public assemblies and demonstrations, special events and some commercial activities. A special park use is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:
Please note that while a special park use may meet the above criteria, not all activities are approved based on park specific resources, visitation, and potential impact. Who needs a permit?The term “demonstrations” includes demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers. Women's Rights National Historical Park has three designated locations where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment rights through demonstrations. Each FA location will only accommodate one group at a time. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people, to reserve a First Amendment location or if the National Park Service deems further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors. See the Superintendent's Compendium for maps of these locations.
If you do not meet the criteria that would require a permit, you are welcome to demonstrate in a designated location. Special events or assemblies (including weddings) may be permitted in certain areas of Women's Rights National Historical Park depending on location, group size, and the time of year or day.
The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donation, is allowed within the park if it occurs in designated areas. See the Superintendent's Compendium for maps of these locations. In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:
Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity. The National Park Service requires specific authorizations for commercial businesses to operate in national parks, usually in the form of a Commercial Use Authorization. How do I get a permit?Permit applications must be submitted to the Special Use Permit Coordinator a minimum of three weeks prior to the expected event date. Please download the Special Use Permit Application (PDF) and e-mail the completed form to donald_stanko@nps.gov. |
Last updated: April 10, 2026