Park Compendium

Superintendent’s Compendium of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority
2024
Under the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, Antietam National Battlefield establishes the regulations to properly manage, protect and govern the park’s public use. Title 54, United States Code, Subtitle I, Division A, Chapter 1001 authorizes these regulations in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.The written determinations that Section 1.5(c) requires for the Superintendent’s discretionary authority appear in this document in italicized print.

Table of ContentsIntroduction
A. What is the Compendium?
B. What laws and policies allow the Superintendent to develop this Compendium?
C. Does this compendium comply with applicable Federal law and requirements?
D. How are the requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium developed?
E. Where does the Compendium Apply?
F. Who enforces this Compendium?
G. Is there a penalty for not adhering to the requirements found in this Compendium?

Regulations Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS
CLOSURES AND PUBLIC USE LIMITSAREAS DESIGNATED FOR A SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITYACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE PERMITS

Part 2 – GENERAL REGULATIONSPRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL, AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCESWILDLIFE PROTECTIONCAMPINGPICNICKINGFIRESPETSHORSESSKATING, SKATEBOARDS, AND SIMILAR DEVICESSMOKINGPROPERTYRECREATION FEESPUBLIC ASSEMBLIES, MEETINGSPARKING

Part 4 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY SPEED LIMITS

Part 1.5 FILMING AND PART 5.5 STILL PHOTOGRAPHY
FILMING STILL PHOTOGRAPHY

NATIONAL CEMETERY

SECURITY CAMERA / CCTV POLICY STATEMENT


IntroductionA. What is the Superintendent’s Compendium?The Antietam National Battlefield’s Superintendent’s Compendium summarizes park specific rules implemented under the Park Superintendent’s discretionary authority. It is public notice that gives the public a chance to comment, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on those public use and resource protection regulations regarding the specific administration of the park. It does not contain those regulations found in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) and other United States Codes (U.S.C.) and C.F.R. Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.36 C.F.R. Parts 1-7 regulations are the National Park Service’s (NPS) basic mechanism to preserve and protect the park’s natural and cultural resources and to protect visitors and property in the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all National Park System areas and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each Part has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Certain Part 1-7 sections and subsections grant the Superintendent discretionary authority to develop local rules responding to a specific park’s resource or activity, park plan, program, the general public’s special needs or a combination of these.This compendium should be used with 36 C.F.R. Sections 1-7 to understand more fully the regulations governing all National Park System areas’ use and enjoyment.Title 36 CFR and the Superintendent’s Compendium are available for review on the park website www.nps.gov/anti, the Superintendent’s office, Chief Ranger’s office, Visitor Center information desk or through a request to a park ranger. Additional information may be requested by writing or calling:SuperintendentAntietam National BattlefieldPO Box 158Sharpsburg, MD 21782-0158Phone: 301-432-7648

B. What laws and policies allow the Superintendent to develop this Compendium? 54 U.S.C. Subtitle I, Division A, Ch. 1001, § 100101(a) (National Park Service Organic Act of 1916, as amended) grants the NPS broad statutory authority to “... regulate the use of the National Park System by means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in the System units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.”In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions regarding the NPS’ overall mission. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970 (54 U.S.C. Subtitle I, Division A, Ch. 1001, § 100101 (b)(1), Congress brought all areas the NPS administered into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916. In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various System units shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by subsection (a), to the common benefit of all people of the United States.” 54 U.S.C. Subtitle I, Division A, Ch. 1005, § 100501 defines the National Park System as “... any areas of land and water administered by the Secretary, acting through the Director, for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.”36 C.F.R. § 1.7(b) requires the Superintendent to compile in writing all the designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority. This compilation, called the Superintendent’s Compendium, will be updated annually and made available to the public upon request. Besides the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is also guided by established NPS policy found in the NPS Management Policies (2001). As this Compendium outlines, the NPS’ primary role is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the visitors’ enjoyment of these resources and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may be inappropriate in another.Each Park Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has grounds to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.

C. Does this Compendium comply with applicable Federal law and requirements? The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring an Office of Management and Budget review under Executive Order 12866. This Compendium complies with Title 54 United States Code and Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.

D. How are the requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium developed? As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority to determine what uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area.The Superintendent’s Compendium requirements are developed with an analysis and decision process for that particular NPS area. The decision criteria used during this process are
  1. Is the use or activity consistent with the National Park Service Organic Act and NPS policy?
  2. Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
  3. Will the use or activity damage or impair the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
  4. Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
  5. Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
  6. Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
E. Where does this Compendium apply?The regulations contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting, or otherwise within the boundaries of federally owned lands and waters administered by the National Park Service as Antietam National Battlefield.

F. Who enforces the requirements of this Compendium?The regulations contained in this Compendium may be enforced by any commissioned employee of the National Park Service or sworn officer of the United States Park Police. At the Superintendent’s discretion, sworn law enforcement officers of partner agencies may also be granted authority to enforce these regulations.

G. Is there a penalty for not adhering to the requirements found in this Compendium?A person who violates any regulations in Title 36 C.F.R. Parts 1-7 or this compendium is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. § 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. § 3559), or both, and will be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings.
36 C.F.R.
Part 1 – General
Provisions

Visitor HoursThe visitor center is open from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. daily. The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Park buildings including Dunker Church, Observation Tower and restrooms at the Antietam National Cemetery will close at 5:00 p.m. All park areas including buildings, roads, and other public use facilities and areas are closed during night-time hours (30 minutes past sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise), except to those groups holding valid camping permits, special use permits, or volunteer event agreements. During closure periods, campers may occupy only the area designated in their permit, and are not to travel by foot, vehicle, horse, or any other method beyond permit designation. This includes all interpretive living history programs, which are limited also to shelter and restroom facilities. Local residents may use the following roads to access their residences: Dunker Church Road, Mansfield Avenue, and Cornfield Avenue.
Determination of Closure/Limitations:The closures are necessary for public safety and to protect the park’s cultural, historical, and natural resources from damage, vandalism, and destruction during times when there may be limited personnel on duty.Closures:The following areas are closed to the public:
  • Fields planted in crops
  • Resource monitoring plots
  • Miller and Otto warm season grasslands
Determination of Closure/Limitations:Due to the inherent damage and destruction caused to crops, seedlings, and plants from visitor traffic through these areas, it is necessary to close them in order to protect the resources.
  • Fields used for grazing
Determination of Closure/Limitations:For public safety it is necessary to close the fields to prevent visitor injuries from farm animals.
  • Historic structures, barns, sheds, and outbuildings, without the permission of the superintendent or an authorized representative.
Determination of Closure/Limitations:Many of the historic structures located throughout the park are structurally unstable and the closure is necessary to protect park visitors from injury. Additionally, some of the structures are under permit to local farmers and contain personally owned farm equipment, and there is a need to protect their property from damage, theft, and vandalism.

Recreational activities, such as kite flying, ball playing, sunbathing, rocket flying, sledding, and Frisbee playing are prohibited; except in the designated “Recreation Area” in the Rohrbach Campground.Determination of Closure/Limitations:Due to the significant historical events which took place on the battlefield, it was determined in the 1992 General Management Plan that recreational activities are inconsistent with the purpose for which it was established and is to be managed.

Unmanned Aircraft: Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands or waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Antietam National Battlefield is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.Definition: the term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types or devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.Determination of Closure/Limitations:This closure is necessary to maintain public safety, protect the park’s wildlife, and to preserve the cultural resources of the park. Due to the significant historical events which took place on the battlefield, any less restrictive measures would interfere with visitors’ opportunity to understand the significance of the park and would be inconsistent with the purpose for which the park was established and is to be managed.

Picnicking: The following areas are closed to picnicking:
  • National Cemetery
  • Mumma Cemetery
  • Observation Tower
  • Dunker Church
  • Burnside Bridge
  • Park Monuments
Determination of Closure/Limitations:Due to the historic nature of these areas and in accordance with NPS Management Policies, it has been determined that picnicking activities would be inconsistent with the purpose for which these areas were established and are to be managed.

Food and Beverages are prohibited in the visitor center lobby, theater, and museum.Determination of Closure/Limitations:The visitor center contains historic artifacts and paintings and it has been determined that damage from spilled food and beverages pose an unacceptable risk to the resources and visitor satisfaction with the facility.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the Rohrbach Campground.Determination of Closure/Limitations:The Rohrbach Campground is primarily used by scout groups and other youth groups and it has been determined that alcohol use in the area is inconsistent with the purpose for which the area was established.

Launching, docking, or removing boats from the water of Antietam Creek within 500 feet of the historic Burnside Bridge is prohibited.Determination of Closure/Limitations:The Burnside Bridge serves as a historical landmark at Antietam National Battlefield and is susceptible to damage from soil erosion. It has been determined that the damage caused to vegetation along the Antietam Creek shoreline caused by the dragging of boats through the area would put the resource at risk and would be an intrusion on the historic setting of this area.

Swimming within 500 feet of the Burnside Bridge is prohibited.Determination of Closure/Limitations:The Burnside Bridge serves as a historical landmark at Antietam National Battlefield and is susceptible to damage from soil erosion. It has been determined that the damage caused to vegetation along the Antietam Creek shoreline caused by people entering and leaving the creek would put the resource at risk and would be an intrusion on the historic setting of this area.

Fishing is prohibited from any portion of or within 500 feet of the Burnside Bridge.Determination of Closure/Limitations:The Burnside Bridge is a heavily visited area of the park and in order to prevent injuries associated with the casting of hooks and weights it has been determined necessary to close the area to the activity for public safety. Additionally, the Burnside Bridge serves as a historical landmark at Antietam National Battlefield and fishing activities would be an intrusion on the historic setting of this area.

Pets are prohibited within the Fulk House, Antietam National Cemetery, and Mumma Cemetery.

Determination of Closure/Limitations:The Fulk House is used as group housing for volunteer and seasonal employees and in order to protect employees who may have allergies or related medical conditions triggered by exposure to pets and to protect furnishings it has been determined necessary to close the area to pets.Pets are prohibited in the park cemeteries to protect monuments and grave markers from damage.Electric powered mobility assistance devices (e.g. electric scooters, wheelchairs, Segway devices) for the purpose of transporting persons with disabilities are permitted on park walkways and trails.Reference: December 14, 2006 Memo from Director Bomar on “Use of Segways by Persons with Disabilities in the National Park System.
Public Use Limits:

Horseback riding along the shoulders of park tour roads is limited to groups of 5 or fewer.Determination of Closure/Limitations:Due to current tour road and shoulder width it is necessary to limit group sizes to prevent visitor use conflicts with vehicles and pedestrians using the tour road.
Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:(a)(2) The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:

Bicycles and E-bikes:
  • The use of a bicycle or E-bike is permitted on park roads and in parking areas that are otherwise open for motor vehicle use by the general public.
  • Bicycles and E-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks, and on all park trails.
The term “E-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operational pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.)E-bikes are allowed in Antietam National Battlefield where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an E-bike without pedaling is prohibited.A person operating an E-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR Part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an E-bike within Antietam National Battlefield is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.

Camping: The Rohrbach Campground is available to scouts and other organized youth groups for camping by reservation from March 1 – November 30.

Horseback Riding in groups of five or fewer is permitted on the shoulders of park roads.

Skating, skateboarding, and other similar activities: The use of roller skates, skateboards, Rollerblades, in-line skates, or similar devices is permitted on park tour roads. Use of these devices is prohibited on sidewalks, monuments, parking areas, and inside structures.
1.6 – Activities that Require Permits(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the Superintendent is required:
  • 1.5(d) The following activity related to Public Use Limits:
  • 2.5(a) Specimen collection (Take plant, fish, wildlife)
  • 2.10(a) Camping
2.12 Audio Disturbances
  • (a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
  • (a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued in pursuant to section 2.50 or 2.51
  • Aircraft or Air Delivery
  • (c)(1) removal of a downed aircraft
  • 2.38 Explosives
  • Use or possess fireworks
  • 2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
  • 2.51(b) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other expressions of views by groups of over 25 persons
  • 2.52(b) Sale or distribution of printed material that is not solely commercial advertising by groups of over 25 persons
  • 2.60(b) Livestock use
  • 2.61(a) Residing on federal lands
  • 2.62 Memorialization
  • (b) Scattering ashes from human cremation
  • 4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight, and size limits
  • 5.1 Advertisements (display, posting or distribution)
  • 5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States or must be pursuant to special regulations)
  • 5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads (the Superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available)
  • 5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, paths, structures, etc.
36 C.F.R. Part 2 – General Regulations
2.1 Preservation of natural, cultural, and archeological resources(a)(4) Dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park in the following area:
  • Rohrbach Campground
(c) The following pant fruits, nuts, and berries may be gathered for personal use or consumption in the amounts established: (1) Fruit/Nut/Berry (2)(i) Daily/Person Limit Walnuts 1 Bushel Hickory Nuts 1 Bushel Acorns (Oak Species) 1 Bushel Paw Paws 1 Bushel Blackberries 1/2 Gallon Raspberries 1/2 Gallon Wineberries 1 Gallon Mushrooms (Morels) 1 Gallon
2.2 Wildlife Protection(d) The transportation of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
  • Area residents may use only Dunker Church Road, Mansfield Avenue, Cornfield Avenue, and Smoketown Road for the purpose of transporting legally taken wildlife to and from their residences.
  • Vehicles may not use pullouts and parking areas within the park while transporting legally taken wildlife.
2.10 Camping(a) Camping or overnight use by organized groups is permitted at the Rohrbach Campground under the following conditions:
  • Groups staying in the Rohrbach Campground must pay the applicable camping fee. Camping reservations can be made at the following web site: www.recreation.gov.
  • All other overnight use of the battlefield will be limited to Volunteers-in-the-Parks engaged in NPS Living History activities, by the issuance of a Special Use Permit by the park superintendent, or as covered by the Cooperative Agreement with the National Museum of Civil War Medicine at the Pry Farm.
2.11 Picnicking Certain areas have been closed to picnicking and are listed in this document in the “Closures” section above.

2.13 Fires(a)(1)(2) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except in the following designated areas under the conditions noted:
Designated Areas:
  • Fires, including coal and charcoal grills and fuel stoves and lanterns, are prohibited in all areas of Antietam National Battlefield except the Rohrbach Campground and areas approved by the Park Superintendent for use by Volunteers-in-the-Parks Living History organizations.
Receptacles Allowed:
  • Fires are restricted to existing fire rings in the campground.
2.15 Pets
  • Domestic pets are only authorized in open air, outdoor, recreational areas of the park.
  • Pets must be restrained, pet carrier or leashed, and accompanied at all time while in the park.
  • Leashes will be no longer than 6 feet. The leash shall be held at all times by a person capable of managing the pet.
  • Animals that do not meet the definition of a domestic pet are not allowed in the park without specific authorization as provided by a special use permit.
  • Further restrictions on pets/animals may be defined within special use permits issued for events.
  • Note: This section on pets does not apply to service animals and dogs used by law enforcement in the performance of their duties.
(a)(1) Possessing pets in public buildings and the following structures and/or areas is prohibited:
  • Antietam National Cemetery
  • Mumma Cemetery
  • Observation Tower
  • Dunker Church
  • Fulk House
  • Pet owners cannot allow any pet to enter near or upon any monument, marker, cultural or archeological structure/object within Antietam National Battlefield. Pet owners will not allow their pets to relieve themselves on any monument, marker, cultural or archeological structure/object within Antietam National Battlefield.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of with the following conditions:
  • Pet excrement, including horse excrement, shall be removed immediately by the animal owner/handler on walkways, trails, and visitor tour stops. Excrement shall be disposed of in proper trash receptacles.
2.16 Horses(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
  • Riders are limited to two horses abreast on tour road shoulders.
  • All riders and/or drivers shall obey traffic laws in accordance with Maryland State Law.
  • The jumping of stone walls or fences or riding faster than a trot is prohibited.
  • Horse trailers are not to be parked in the visitor center parking lot. They are to be parked in the grass overflow parking area on the west side of Dunker Church Road, south of the Dunker Church. Horse trailers may also be parked in the grassy area of the Burnside Bridge overflow parking area located near the Final Attack Trail trailhead.
  • The area where horse trailers are parked as well as any areas where horses have been tethered for any length of time must be clear of waste and debris.
  • Horses are not to be left unattended.
  • Riders are responsible for the removal of horse manure from roadways, walkways, and visitor tour stops prior to leaving the park.
2.20 Skating, Skateboarding, and Similar Devices The use of roller skates, skateboards, Rollerblades, in-line skates, or similar devices is permitted on park tour roads. Use of these devices is prohibited on sidewalks, monuments, parking areas, and inside structures.
2.21 Smoking(a) Smoking and vaping is prohibited in all park structures and during black powder demonstrations.
2.22 Property(a)(2) Leaving property unattended in the park is prohibited except for within the National Cemetery:
  • Under this provision geo-caching is prohibited throughout the park and the Antietam National Cemetery.
  • Unattended property includes flags, signs, wreaths, and mementos left on park property unless otherwise approved by permit by the Superintendent.
The entire park consists of sacred battleground and therefore contains historically significant resources. The caching of items such as digging, burying, covering, and otherwise concealing items are sometimes used while geo-caching, and are inappropriate within these areas. Abandoning and leaving property unattended is illegal under this section. The activity itself will appear suspicious to bystanders and staff who might misinterpret what the individual is doing. This type of recreational activity is inconsistent with the park’s purposes and values.
  • Virtual geo-caching is allowed due to its non-intrusive nature.
  • § 2.23 Recreation Fees(b) In accordance with 36 CFR Part 71, the following entrance fees have been established for Antietam National Battlefield: Individual Entrance Fee (ages 16 and over) $10.00
Vehicle Entrance Fee (Includes all individuals arriving in a single vehicle) $20.00
Annual Park Pass $35.00
Entrance fees are collected at the visitor center from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

2.51 Public Assemblies, Meetings and 2.52 Distribution of Printed Matter(c) Public assemblies and First Amendment activities and the sale or distribution of printed matter or free distribution of other message-bearing items in designated areas may be conducted by groups of more than 25 persons provided a special use permit has been issued; or by groups of 25 persons or fewer provided the conditions of § 2.51(b)(1) are met. The locations in Antietam National Battlefield designated as available for these activities are:
  • The area west of the visitor center known as the “Pit” overflow parking area west of Dunker Church Road and south of the Dunker Church as shown on Appendix I map.
  • The area of the Mumma Farm (excluding structures) shown on Appendix II map.
  • The area of the Burnside Bridge overflow parking area south of the McKinley Monument and east of the Snavely’s Ford Trail shown on Appendix III map.
Additionally, individual applications will be evaluated to determine if any of the restrictions in 36 CFR § 2.51 (c)(1)(i-vi) are applicable.§ 4.10 Travel on Park Roads
Roadside parking within the park is permissible when designated areas are full or when there is not a designated area in the vicinity.
Roadside parking is not permitted within 6 feet of any fixed object including monuments, tablets, signs, buildings, intersections, etc., unless within a designated parking area.
Vehicles must be parked paralel to the roadway, unless directed by park staff, and within 4 feet of adjacent roadway.
Speed Limits§ 4.21 Speed LimitsThe following speed limits have been established by the superintendent for the roads indicated to provide for the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, horseback riders, and other park visitors:
  • Dunker Church Road, 35 mph
  • Mansfield Avenue, 25 mph
  • Cornfield Avenue, 25 mph
  • Mumma Farm Lane, 25 mph
  • Richardson Avenue, 25 mph
  • Rodman Avenue, 25 mph
  • Branch Avenue, 25 mph
  • Old Burnside Bridge Road, 25 mph
  • Pry Farm Access Lane, 15 mph
§ 1.5 Filming and § 5.5 Still Photography(a) The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
  • Outdoor filming activities [outside of areas managed as wilderness] involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at all times, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.
The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:
  • maintain public health and safety;
  • protect environmental or scenic values;
  • protect natural or cultural resources;
  • allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
  • avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request.The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10-day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit. The following are prohibited:
  1. Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
  2. Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required.
  3. Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.
(b) Still Photography requires a permit when the activity takes place at a location where the public is not typically allowed, when the park would incur costs to monitor the activity, or if the activity uses models, sets, or props. The payment of cost recovery and a location fee is required in addition to the permit application fee.
  • Sets and props include photography equipment other than a camera and tripod. The use of other equipment such as lighting, backdrops, shades, screens, etc. requires a permit.
  • Sets and props also include inanimate objects brought to the area and used to stage a specific scene. Items such as smoke generators or bombs, confetti cannons, snow machines, balloons, etc. that have the potential to be released into the park environment and/or impair the visitor experience are not allowed. A permit is required for any other props, except a small number of items of limited size that can be hand carried to the photography site in one trip and removed promptly when the activity is complete.
  • A model is defined as a person or object that serves as the subject of still photography for the purpose of promoting the sale or use of a product or service. The use of a model requires a permit.
For more permit information or to apply for a permit, contact the park’s permit office at
301-432-0306 x105 or email e-mail us.

§ 12.2 Purpose of National Cemeteries.National cemeteries are established as national shrines in tribute to the gallant dead who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States. Such areas are protected, managed and administered as suitable and dignified burial grounds and as significant cultural resources. As such, the authorization of activities that take place in national cemeteries is limited to those that are consistent with applicable legislation and that are compatible with maintaining the solemn commemorative and historic character of these areas.§ 2.15 Pets(a)(1) Possessing pets, to include horses, in the National Cemetery is prohibited.§ 12.10 Floral and Commemorative Events
  • In the National Cemetery, floral displays may be placed one week prior to the following Federal Holidays and official commemorative events: Memorial Day, July 4th, Veteran’s Day, Armed Forces Day, Flag Day, National Former POW Recognition Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, Wreathes Across America Day, Battle Anniversary, and Christmas.
  • Removal of floral displays will be ten days following the Federal Holiday or commemorative event.
  • Floral displays shall not be secured or attached to the headstones.
  • The National Park Service is not responsible for any lost or missing floral displays.
§ 12.11– Recreational ActivitiesEngaging in recreational activity is prohibited in the National Cemetery. These activities to include:
  • Picnicking
  • Jogging
  • Dancing
  • Climbing
  • Exercise Type Activities
  • Bicycling
  • Drones
  • Geo Caching
  • Recreational activities to include: kite flying, ball playing, sunbathing, rocket flying, sledding, roller skating, skateboarding and frisbee
  • Use of sound amplifying equipment, except for official commemorative events

PUBLIC NOTICE Security Camera/CCTV Policy StatementIn accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Antietam National Battlefield uses Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.The park’s use of CCTV for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally-protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use – which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards – will be to help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals.This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities, revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record/monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.).This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer-worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers. Operation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of recorded images, and use of recorded images will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy and applicable laws and regulations. No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views.Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.

 
map of visitor center
Map of visitor center area First Amendment Area.

NPS Photo

 
map of Mumma farm area
Map of Mumma Farm First Amendment area.

NPS Photo

 
map of Burnside Bridge area
Map of Burnside Bridge First Amendment area.

NPS Photo

Last updated: June 11, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 158
Sharpsburg, MD 21782

Phone:

301 432-5124

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