Permits & Reservations

Special Use Permits

A Special Use Permit (SUP) is required for activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group, or organization, rather than the public at large, and for activities that require some degree of management by the National Park Service in order to protect park resources and the public interest. Activities and events that require Special Use Permits include:

• Sports events, public spectator attractions, pageants
• First Amendment activities with more than 25 participants
• Commercial filming or photography, but not including photography workshops or tours

First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. Therefore, all First Amendment activities with over 25 participants require special use permits, and the park may regulate the time, place, and manner in which they are conducted. First Amendment activities with less than 25 participants who utilize designated areas do not require a permit (per 36 CFR 2.51), unless the group uses amplified sound. Hand carried signs may be used, but stages, platforms, or structures may not be used without a permit.

First Amendment permit requests will be processed within 10 business days. Some examples of special events that require permits (per 36 CFR 2.51) include:

• Distribution and/or sale of printed matter (over 25 participants)
• Religious services
• Scattering of ashes
• Public demonstrations or assemblies, etc. (over 25 participants)
• Collecting signatures for petitions

Miscellaneous Activities

Other activities may require permits if there is the potential for interference with visitor use, congestion of highly visited areas, or possible impacts on park resources.

Special Use Permit Process

1. Download an application: Special Use Permit
   Special instructions are listed on the application forms; please read them carefully. A completed application must be accompanied by an application fee of $150 in the form of a cashier's check or money order made payable to the National Park Service. The application fee is non-refundable unless it is determined that your event does not require a Special Use Permit.
2. Mail completed applications to:
   Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
   Attn: Special Use Permit Coordinator
   PO Box 446
   Patten, ME 04765