Research & Collecting Permits

Park geologist places a GPS node in Upper Geyser Basin
 
 

New Applications

The National Park Service is committed to ensuring that park management is informed by high-quality scientific research. Understanding Yellowstone’s natural and cultural resources is essential to both effective stewardship and the advancement of science. Research is allowed when it can be conducted without harming the resources for which the park was established.

Who Needs a Permit?

A Scientific Research and Collecting Permit is required for all research conducted in Yellowstone National Park outside the Heritage and Research Center. Applicants must represent a recognized scientific, educational, or governmental institution. Student researchers must have a qualified institutional advisor serve as the Principal Investigator. Each proposal is reviewed for:
  • Compliance with laws, regulations, and NPS policy
  • Potential impacts on park resources and values
  • Relevance to Yellowstone’s management priorities
  • Possibility of conducting the research outside the park
  • Disruption to park visitors or operations
  • Peer-reviewed scientific validity
  • Need for additional permits (e.g., state, federal)
  • Collection plans for specimens or artifacts
  • Demands on limited NPS resources (housing, staff time, equipment)
 

Before You Apply

Before applying, read the National Park Service and Yellowstone-specific permit conditions, and download the Research Application Packet along with any additional forms required for research involving Wilderness areas, Bear Management Areas, live animal handling, or specimen collection.

 

How to Apply

 

Contact Us

Monday - Thursday, 8:00am - 5:00pm (MT)
Closed federal holidays
(307) 344-2239

Yell_research@nps.gov
 

More Information

Last updated: May 15, 2025

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

Phone:

307-344-7381

Contact Us