Special Use Permits

The National Park Service may require a special use permit for certain activities to occur in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. These include organized gatherings like weddings or religious services, public assemblies and demonstrations, special events, filming and some commercial activities like commercial guided hikes or still photography. A special park use is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:

1. provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization rather than the public at large;
2. requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the National Park Service (NPS) in order to protect park resources and the public interest;
3. is not prohibited by law or regulation;
4. is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the NPS; and is not managed under a concession contract or lease.

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.

What Activities May Need a Permit

The following list includes but is not limited to what activities may need a permit; please contact us to inquire if your requested activity will require a Special Use Permit.

• Commercial Filming and Photography: A filming permit may be required for commercial filming and still photography that includes sets, props, products, models or large equipment, or sound recording. All compensated photographers hired to photograph weddings or other ceremonies/events, or portraits (weddings, family, senior, pets, engagement, etc.) in the park are required to obtain a Commercial Use Authorization.
• Weddings and Other Ceremonies: Special use permits are required for weddings and other ceremonies. Wedding photographers may need a Commercial Use Authorization.
• Competitive Events
• Workshops or Retreats
• Building use for meetings or workshops
• First Amendment Activities: Special use permits are issued for First Amendment protected activities, include demonstrations and religious services for groups of over 25 people. No fee is charged for these permits. Permits are issued first come-first served.
• Commercial Use Authorization: Commercial Use Authorizations are required for commercial businesses to operate in national parks.

Permit Application Forms

Applications for a permit must be submitted at least 2-4 weeks in advance, depending on the time of year and will not be accepted more than one year in advance. Complex uses or activities may need additional time, however, most applications will not be accepted more than one year before your event. Please review the following applications and determine which version suits your request. If you are unsure of which application to use, contact the permit coordinator at [e-mail]. Permits may require the payment of an application fee, cost recovery charges, a location fee, and proof of liability insurance naming the United States as also insured.

Permit Application, short form
Permit Application, long form

First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations

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.

The park offers a designated location where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment (FA) rights through demonstrations. The FA location will only accommodate one group at a time. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people, to reserve a FA location or if the National Park Service deems further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

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 park areas if it occurs in designated areas. Hand-carried signs may be used, but stages, platforms, or structures may not be used.

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within the designated park FA area, provided that they will not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations, special events, or park program activities. Site use is granted on a first come-first serve basis with preference given to the permit holder.

If you do not meet the criteria that would require a permit, you are welcome to demonstrate in a designated location. Contact the Permits Coordinator if you have questions.