Superintendent’s Compendium 2024: Designations, Closures, Use and Activity Restrictions, Permit Requirements and Other Regulations
In accordance with the delegated authority provided by regulations as published under Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR), Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, Sec. 100751, the following regulatory provisions are established for the management, protection, and public use of Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well and Tuzigoot National Monuments.
Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained elsewhere in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7.
The closures and restrictions delineated in this compendium do not apply to official and/or administrative use or applications (36 CFR l.2(d) and 1.5(a)).This Compendium supersedes all previous releases. All prior releases are rescinded.
Approved by: MATTHEW GUEBARD
Digitally signed by MATTHEW GUEBARD Date: 2024.06.06
Matt Guebard, Superintendent
Introduction
The purpose of the compendium is to provide the public and Monument employees with a document that lists the special designations, closures, public use limits, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent. The Superintendent’s authority to implement these provisions is found in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), § 1.5(a). The compendium is available to the public upon request. The compendium will be reviewed and updated annually or as needed to ensure adequate protection of the Monument’s resources, provide for public safety and enjoyment and to address changes in public use patterns.
The provisions found in this compendium constitute only one of many tools designed to manage and protect Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well and Tuzigoot National Monuments. It is important to utilize this document in conjunction with Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, which includes the full text of National Park Service regulations, including those authorizing the provisions outlined in this compendium. Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, of Title 36, include sections addressing resource protection, public use, recreation, vehicles and traffic safety, commercial operations, and special regulations. These regulations are applicable on all federally owned lands and waters within the boundaries of the Monuments and on lands and waters under the administrative control of the National Park Service.The closures and restrictions delineated in this compendium do not apply to official/administrative use or applications (36 CFR 1.2(d) and 1.5(a)). Interested parties may also wish to review Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments planning documents, including each Monuments Foundation Document.
The regulatory provisions exist to support the purposes for which each monument was established:
Montezuma Castle National Monument is an iconic and well-preserved ancestral Native American cliff dwelling. The castle is the most visible feature of a larger community found within a diverse natural landscape in the Verde Valley of Arizona. The archeological features at Montezuma Castle National Monument represent a continuum of land use from precontact cultures through the present and offer enormous learning potential about human adaptation to a harsh desert environment. Montezuma Well is an artesian spring within a limestone sink containing substantial scientific value, endemic species, and a natural outlet connected to remnants of an extensive precontact and historic irrigation system. Numerous archeological structures can be seen around the interior of the sink along with many features in the surrounding area.
The purpose of Montezuma Castle National Monument is to protect, study, and interpret theoutstanding cultural features and natural ecosystems located within the Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well units.
Tuzigoot National Monument represents a continuum of land use from ancestral Native American cultures through the present and offers enormous learning potential about the relationship between humans and their environment. The natural and cultural resources within Tuzigoot National Monument are significant to culturally associated tribal people as evidenced by oral histories, the archeological record, and continuing practices and beliefs. To this day, 16 tribes maintain an association with the monument.
The purpose of Tuzigoot National Monument is to preserve, study, and interpret outstanding ancestral Native American archeological resources including a large hilltop pueblo and related historic and precontact sites, associated cultural artifacts, and the ecologically sensitive Tavasci Marsh.
Fines and mandatory court appearances for violations of the regulations set forth in the Superintendent’s Compendium for the National Monuments are set by the U.S District Court.It is the intent of this compendium, in conjunction with Monument brochures, maps, signs and other media, to help provide the public and Monument employees with a clear understanding of Monument rules and regulations. Any questions or requests for additional information should be addressed to the Superintendent.
Montezuma Castle & Tuzigoot National Monuments
ATTN: Superintendent
P.O. Box 219Camp Verde, AZ 86322
CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS TITLE 36
36 CFR SECTION 1.5 - CLOSURES AND PUBLIC USE LIMITS
(a)(1) The following public use limits are established for listed portions of Montezuma Castle/Well and Tuzigoot National Monuments (the monuments)—and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the monuments to all public use or to a certain use or activity.
Montezuma Castle & Well Visitor Center
Visiting hours for public use of the Montezuma Castle Visitor Center and trails are daily between 8:00a.m. and 5:00p.m. unless otherwise authorized by a permit from the superintendent or by authorized special postings. Closure will be confirmed by a locked gate at the entrance to the Montezuma Castle and Well parking areas. The visitor center and associated trails are closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25th (Christmas Day) and January 1st ( New Year’s Day).
From February 28th to May 7th, between the hours of 10am and 2pm (Arizona time), Montezuma Castle & The Well Unit are closed to vehicles and trailers which require more than one parking space. This section does not apply to commercial tour busses which are accommodated on a case-by-case basis. (This determination was recommended in the NPS Congestion assessment of 2017 & 2018.There are limited available parking spaces, pedestrians in the traffic lanes, and a significant need to maintain free flowing traffic in cases requiring emergency response.)
In addition to the closures listed above, the Superintendent has closed all areas of Montezuma Castle and Well National Monuments to visitation, except: (the following areas are open to the public)
- Montezuma Castle: The Paved Portions of Montezuma Castle Rd, Beaver Creek Estates Rd, Main Parking Lot, Visitor Center, Castle Paved Touring Trail, and the Picnic Area.
- Montezuma Well: Beaver Creek Rd, Main Touring Road, Picnic Area Road, Established Pullouts and Parking Areas, Maintained Portion of the Picnic Area, Established Horse Pasture Trail, and Paved Walkways.
Tuzigoot Visitor Center
Visiting hours for public use of the Tuzigoot Visitor Center, pueblo and trails (except Tavasci Marsh) are daily between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise authorized by a permit from the superintendent or by authorized special postings. Closure will be confirmed by a locked gate at the entrance to the Tuzigoot parking area. The Monument will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25th (Christmas Day) and January 1st ( New Year’s Day).The Tavasci Marsh area within Tuzigoot N.M. is closed from sunset to sunrise daily.
In addition to the closures listed above, the Superintendent has closed all areas of Tuzigoot National Monument to visitation, except: (the following areas are open to the public)
- Tuzigoot Rd, Parking Lot, Visitor Center, Paved Trails, and Established Tavasci Marsh System. The paved portions of Tuzigoot Rd, the paved Tuzigoot Parking Lot, Visitor Center, Paved Pueblo Touring Trail, Paved Marsh Overlook Touring Trail, and the maintained trail system known as Tavasci Marsh Trail.
Determination: The National Park Service has substantial interest in buildings, materials, equipment, and supplies in the structures and work areas of the location. Consequently, it is necessary to limit public use of these areas to ensure the protection of the public and government interests.
Therefore, public access to these buildings and areas is hereby limited to those days and hours where government employees are available to staff the visitor centers and provide necessary security and oversight of these facilities.
The dusk-to-dawn closure of the Tavasci Marsh is both to protect those cultural resources for which the monument was established and to protect public safety by limiting access to those times when employees are available to respond to accidents and incidents.
Closed Captioned Television (CCTV) Monitoring Policy
In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that the Montezuma Castle/Well and Tuzigoot Monuments use Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring and recording.
The Monuments use of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) for law enforcement and security purposes will be to visually monitor public Monument 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 terrorist attack and 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. (RM-9, 26.1).
This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in the government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities (RM-9, 26.3.7), 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 (RM-9, 26.1) 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 (RM-9, 26.1-26.4). No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views (RM-9, 26.4.2).
Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.
Backcountry Use
Except by permit or participation in NPS-guided activities, all areas within the monuments' fenced, posted, or mapped boundary and beyond developed roads, trails, or facilities, are closed to entry. No foot or vehicle travel off paved developed trails is allowed.
Justification: These closures are necessary to protect the many archeological sites and sensitive natural resource areas within the Monuments. These closures will remain in effect until a special regulation for closures at each monument can be promulgated.
Unmanned Aircraft
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of the monuments 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 on command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links).
This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Determination: The superintendent has determined that unmanaged or unrestricted recreational use of unmanned aircraft within the monuments will conflict with, or impact, a variety of Monument uses including visitor experience of unimpaired viewsheds; the disturbance, displacement, or harassment of monument wildlife to include threatened and endangered species; creation of public safety hazards per operation near roadways or large aggregations of visitors; and visual or aural impacts to wilderness character and values within the monuments’ backcountry. Less restrictive measures were not considered sufficient due to the rapidly expanding and evolving use of unmanned aircraft throughout the world. Section 1.5 of NPS Management Policies 2006 provides that a new form of Monument use may be allowed within a Monument only after a determination has been made by the Monument Superintendent that it will not result in unacceptable impacts on the monuments’ resources and values.
The National Park Service may use unmanned aircraft for administrative purposes when appropriate and approved by the Regional Director (RD) for that park unit. These purposes may include search and rescue operations, fire operations, and scientific study.
Operation of Vehicles
Vehicle traffic is restricted to maintained and designated Monument roads, including two-track roads.
The following roads are closed to public access:
- Montezuma Castle: Residence and Utility Road (Rt 400), Lagoon Road (Rt 403) and Water Tank Road (Rt 0404) All unpaved and/or gated and locked roads.
- Montezuma Well: Montezuma Well Residence Road (Rt 401) and South Boundary Road (Pasture Trail) All gated and locked roads.
- Tuzigoot: Residence and Utility Road, TUZI Ridge Road (Rt 401), TUZI Dead Horse Road (Rt 402). All unpaved and/or gated and locked roads.
Determination: Operation of vehicles off Monument roads can damage or destroy delicate natural and cultural resources. Areas closed to the public are housing and employee areas which must be secured for the safety of personal and government property.
Picnicking
Except for parking areas whereas it does not impede the flow of traffic, picnicking is permitted only in those areas developed and signed for such use.
Determination: Trash and recycling receptacles are provided at permitted picnicking locations. Food, trash, and recyclable materials not properly disposed of will mar the landscape, change the natural environments, and may encourage nuisance or possibly hazardous wildlife behavior.
Caves
Public presence, use, and access in all caves, as defined below, is prohibited without a valid permit authorized by the superintendent.
The Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988 defines the term "cave" as any naturally occurring void, cavity, recess, or system of interconnected passages which occurs beneath the surface of the earth or within a cliff or ledge (including any cave resource therein, but not including any mine, tunnel, aqueduct, or other excavation), and which is large enough to allow an individual to enter. Such term shall include any natural pit, sinkhole, or other feature which is an extension of the entrance.
Determination: This restriction is necessary to protect the features, archaeological resources, and various life forms that may be present in caves within the monuments.
36 CFR SECTION 1.6-(f) ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
The following is a compilation of activities requiring a permit from the superintendent:
1.5 (d) Areas Restricted to Public Presence, after hours use and Access by Permit Only.
2.1(c)(l) Gathering of plant products
2.12 Audio disturbances
2.5 Specimen collection
2.23 Special recreation activities
2.50 Special events, Section a (i.e., weddings, baptisms)
(a) The following areas within Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments are closed to special events.
- All maintenance/residential areas
- All archeological sites
The following areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis for approval by the superintendent:
- Parking lots and adjacent sidewalks
- Visitor Center and contact station complexes
- Interpretive Trails
- Picnic areas
(b) Special event applications involving Native American traditional activities will be considered according to National Park Service policy, based on the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, Public Law 95-341. The National Park Service policy issued in March 1988 will be utilized as needed.
2.51 Public assemblies, meetings (except groups of 25 or fewer)
Public assemblies and meetings are allowed by permit only in the following areas:
Montezuma Castle Unit: (See Appendix A)
- In front of the Montezuma Castle Visitor Center, an area one-half the width of the sidewalk between the picnic area access trail and the first refuse container, directly in front of the administrative access road, approximately 8’ deep by 10’ wide. The area available may be extended up to 30’ behind the 12”x12” barrier beam and down the administrative access road. If utilizing this extended area, Permittees must stay on the uphill side of the split rail fencing along the south side and not encroach on the vegetation to the north.
- Montezuma Castle Picnic Area, west half, an area approximately 30’x30’. Permittees will not cross over the split rail fence delineating the west end and/or north edge of the picnic area, nor will they encroach upon the gabion along the south edge.
Montezuma Well Unit: (See Appendix A)
- An area located in the main parking area adjacent to the main trail to the Well on the opposite side of the trail from the Contact Station, approximately 20’ wide x 15’ deep (approximately 2- 3 diagonal parking stalls). The exact location in parking lot may be adjusted as necessary due to other circumstances and/or previous use by vehicles.
- Montezuma Well Picnic Area, north end, adjacent to the dirt turn-around, an area approximately 50’x50’.
Tuzigoot National Monument: (See Appendix A)
- An area approximately 20’ long x 50’ deep, located adjacent to the paved sidewalk leading to the Tuzigoot Ruin trail, to the south of the Visitor Center and east of the paved sidewalk, and within the administrative access road leading from the entrance road to the historic garage.
- Lower parking lot, northwest corner, limited to the area marked as parking spaces. Traffic flow through the lot must be maintained.
- Picnic area north of the restrooms
Persons participating in these public assemblies and meetings will not approach vehicles or inhibit the flow of pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic through the adjacent areas.
Not all of these sites may be available at any given time due to other scheduled or unscheduled park functions or events.
2.52 - Sale or distribution of printed matter
- Sale or distribution of printed materials is allowed by permit only in designated areas. Vehicles may not be approached.
- See descriptions of permitted areas under 36 CFR 2.51 DEMONSTRATIONS, and in Appendix A.
4.10(a) - Operating a motor vehicle off designated roads
4.10(a) - Driving or parking off a designated road
5.5(a)(b) - Commercial filming or photography
5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business
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. Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) are required for all commercial visitor services provided by entities not based in the Monument. CUA permits can be issued for such things as commercial tours, guided hiking, photography workshops.Individuals interested in applying for a CUA should contact the Monuments Chief Ranger’s office.
5.4 Commercial Photography/Filming
Definition – “Commercial filming" means the film, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other recording of a moving image by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience with the intent of generating income. Examples include, but are not limited to, feature film, videography, and documentaries.Commercial filming may include the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.
Federal law requires a permit for all commercial filming, no matter the size of the crew or the type of equipment. This includes individuals or small groups that don’t use much equipment, but generate revenue by posting footage on websites, such as YouTube and TikTok. The primary focus of the NPS, however, is on commercial filming that has the potential to impact Monument resources and visitors beyond what occurs from normal visitor use of Monument areas. Examples of this type of filming are productions that use substantial equipment such as sets and lighting, productions with crews that exceed 5 people, and filming in closed areas, wilderness areas, or in locations that would create conflicts with other visitors or harm sensitive resources.
All filming activities, no matter the size, must comply with all rules that apply in Monument areas.
The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:
- Individual parks may require a permit for non-commercial filming if necessary to manage the activity, to protect park resources and values, minimize conflict between user groups, or to ensure public safety. Examples of non-commercial filming include, but are not limited to, filming for tourism bureaus, convention and visitor bureaus, student filming, and filming for personal use and enjoyment. If you have questions about whether a non-commercial film project requires a permit, please contact the park where you intend to film in advance. In most cases, a permit is not necessary for visitors filming for personal enjoyment.
- In most cases, still photography does not require a permit. A permit is required for still photography only when:
- the activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed; or
- the activity uses model(s), sets(s), or prop(s) that are not a part of the location's natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities; or
- A “model” means a person or object that serves as the subject for still photography for the purpose of promoting the sale or use of a product or service. Models include, but are not limited to, individuals, animals, or inanimate objects, such as vehicles, boats, articles of clothing, and food and beverage products. Portrait subjects, such as wedding parties and high school graduates, are not considered models.
- the National Park Service would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.
The organizer of commercial or special use photography/filming activity must submit a completed Special Use Application via email to the Special Use Coordinator and Application Fee via pay.gov at least 21 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the application will be reviewed to determine if a permit is authorized . Superintendent or their designee may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if it is 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
- avoid conflict among visitor use activities
- a commercial activity
If the superintendent or their designee determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the superintendent or their designee may deny a filming request without issuing a permit.
Superintendent or their designee 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 21 day advance notice to the NPS and can be verified by email, phone records etc, 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.
Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the superintendent.
For more information on Commercial filming and photo permits. Filming & Still Photography Permits (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on Monument area roads
5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, path, structures, et
36 CFR PART 2: RESOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION
36 CFR 2.1- Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources
(a)(4) The collection of any wood within the monuments is prohibited.
(a)(5) Walking on, climbing, entering, ascending, descending, or traversing an archeological or cultural resource, monument, or statue, except in designated areas and under conditions established by the superintendent, is prohibited. Walking within the Tuzigoot Ruins is permitted while on the designated paved trail.
(b) Hiking or pedestrian traffic is restricted to the trail tread or walkway on the following trails/walkways:
- Tuzigoot Pueblo trail
- Tavasci Marsh trail system
- Montezuma Well loop trail
- Montezuma Well Pasture Trail system
- Montezuma Well Pithouse trail
- Montezuma Castle loop trail
- Use of the Montezuma Castle Residence Trail is prohibited
- Hiking/walking off trail is prohibited.
- Guided walks off trail with a Ranger are permitted.
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, or berries may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in reasonable quantities. These natural products may be collected without negatively affecting the growth and replenishment of the producing plant.
Determination: The unrestricted collection of native fruits, berries, nuts, and fruiting bodies could adversely impact plant propagation and/or wildlife food sources. Native Americans may collect traditional botanical items for personal use (edible and medicinal).
36 CFR 2.2 - Wildlife Protection
(a)through (c) and (e) through (g)
Taking, hunting, trapping, calling, harassing, feeding, disturbing, and viewing with an artificial light any wildlife is prohibited.
(d)The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife from areas adjacent to the monuments through the monuments on County roads is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
- Persons transporting will have in their possession a valid State hunting license.
- All lawfully taken wildlife must be tagged and marked appropriately as required by State laws while being transported through the monuments.
- Animal carcasses will be subject to inspection at any time by an authorized person.
Determination: The Park does not wish to impede those who have been hunting legally outside of the park nor impede the transportation of legally taken game. The transportation of game through the Park, which is closed to hunting, however, can elicit visitor complaints and could cause confusion with the Park’s no-hunting regulation. Law enforcement park rangers are authorized to check hunters transporting game to ensure wildlife was not taken illegally within the Park boundaries.
The viewing of wildlife at night with the use of artificial lights temporarily blinds animals, which causes them to become unnatural prey for natural predators and poachers. Poaching is a potential problem within the parks.
Intentional disturbing of wildlife may adversely affect wildlife behavior (i.e., breeding and mating rituals, feeding habits, travel patterns/routes) possibly causing stressful and/or disruptive conditions for wildlife. Intentional disturbance by humans directly conflicts with the National Park Service’s Mission Statement and is unnatural. Using calls can cause wildlife to leave foraging and mating areas and attract them to roads where they are more likely to become injured or killed. They may also become unnatural prey if artificially attracted out of cover.
36 FR 2.3 – Fishing
- Fishing is prohibited within the boundaries of Montezuma Castle (including the unit of Montezuma Well) & Tuzigoot National Monuments.
Determination: Recreational fishing could impact fragile and limited natural and cultural resources.
36 CFR 2.10 - Camping and Food Storage
(a) Camping and overnight parking of occupied vehicles are prohibited within the boundaries of the monuments.
Determination: Unrestricted camping activities may damage sensitive soil, archaeological, cave, and other natural resources. Camping is also not appropriate or aesthetically suitable in areas subject to high public use and transit such as trailheads, picnic areas, and parking areas.
36 CFR 2.11 – Picnicking
Picnicking is only permitted in the designated picnic areas:
- At the Montezuma Castle Unit, the area south of the Visitor Center, between the wood fence and the gabions at Beaver Creek. The total capacity has been set to a maximum of 30 people. (see also Special Use Permit requirements above).
- At the Montezuma Well Unit, the manicured grass area located at the end of the Picnic Area road. The total capacity has been set to a maximum of 50 people. (see also Special Use Permit requirements above).
- At Tuzigoot National Monument, the picnic area shelters between the upper and lower parking areas and the picnic tables adjacent to the Visitor Center front entry. The capacity has been set to a maximum of six people per table: total capacity 18 people. (see also Special Use Permit requirements above).
36 CFR 2.13 – Fires
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Established Conditions for Fires: Liquid stove fuel (including propane/butane and other pressurized fuel in gas form) is the only fuel permitted and is to be used for cooking only. Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited. Steps must be taken to prevent creating a safety hazard or causing damage to government property caused by the use of liquid fuel operated stoves and grills.
Designated Areas: Approved cooking stoves and grills may be used in the designated picnic areas only. The use of grills and stoves in the parking areas is prohibited.
Receptacles Allowed: Liquid fuel stoves/grills and other non-residue producing fire systems are permitted. Open and/or ground fires using wood or charcoal are prohibited.
(c) High fire danger closures will be in effect as noted:
- In certain periods of the year the superintendent may impose fire closures under high fire danger notices.
Determination: The use of fires in the Park is regulated to protect structures, natural resources, and the public. During extreme weather conditions, the use of liquid fuel-operated stoves and other devices may be restricted to prevent the accidental ignition of wildfires. Section 2.13(b) does not apply to planned ignitions by park management or wildfires determined by the superintendent to be allowed to burn for resource benefit
36 CFR 2.15 - Pets
(a)(1) The superintendent has authorized pet owners, who are in compliance with all other listed regulations, to have a pet on paved roads which are open to the public, established trails, picnic areas, parking lots, in the Pasture at Montezuma Well, and at Tavasci Marsh.
Pets are prohibited in the visitor centers, contact stations, and restrooms.
An exception to this regulation is granted for service dogs accompanying persons with disabilities, regardless of the disability requiring the use of a service dog.
(a)(2) Pets should be confined to a crate, cage, restrained on a leash which shall not exceed six feet in length, or otherwise physically confined at all times.
(a)(3) Pets are not to be left tied and/or unattended at any location within the monuments.
- This includes inside of vehicles. Periods of excessive heat can be dangerous and deadly to pets if left unattended inside of vehicles.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
- All pet excrement must be removed by the owner/keeper from all trails, roads, picnic areas, and parking areas, and shall be deposited in provided refuse containers or removed from the area.
(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
- Montezuma Castle (including the unit of Montezuma Well) and Tuzigoot National Monuments employees residing in government quarters may keep pets in accordance with the current NPS, MOCA/TUZI and VIP Housing Management Plans.
(f) This restriction does not apply to animals used by authorized Federal, State, and local law enforcement officers in the performance of their official duties.
Determination: Pet restrictions are necessary to provide for the protection of park resources, wildlife, and public safety. While visiting the park with pets can be a positive experience, pets have been shown to have negative impacts on park natural and cultural resources and visitors/employees. These impacts include, noise, harassment of wildlife, defecation, digging in resource sensitive areas, scent marking of wildlife habitat and aggressive, violent behavior.
36 CFR 2.20 - Skating, Skateboards, and Similar Devices
For public safety, the use of skates, skateboards, roller-skis/blades, and similar devices are prohibited within the boundaries of the Monuments.
Motorized scooters are prohibited on all trails with the exception of Segway’s used by people with mobility impairments. Segway’s can be operated on those areas accessible to regular and motorized wheelchairs.
Determination: The terrain encountered at the monuments precludes the safe use of roller- skates, in- line skates, skateboards, and similar devices.
36 CFR 2.21-Smoking
(a)(1)The following portions of the Monuments are closed to smoking & Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS):
- Within all government buildings, facilities, and vehicles.
- Within 20’ of any public use or government building.
- Montezuma Castle: everywhere except the designated smoking area near the flagpole and the parking lot.
- Tuzigoot: Tuzigoot Pueblo Trail
- Montezuma Well Unit: Montezuma Well Overlook, Swallet, Outlet, and the associated trails.
Determination: The inappropriate disposal of cigarette butts negatively impacts natural and cultural resources. The presence of burning smoking materials of any type represents a fire risk. Cigarettes or Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) are prohibited in all areas that tobacco smoking is not allowed. E-Cigarettes or ENDS will be treated as one in the same.
36 CFR 2.22 - Property.
(a)(2) The superintendent may grant permission to leave property (e.g. vehicles, trailers) longer than 24 hours in the following areas:
- All roadside parking areas
- Visitor Center parking areas
- All NPS residence areas
- All NPS maintenance areas
- Areas designated for parking for overnight ranger-led hikes or required by researchers under permit of Section2.5
Determination: The areas listed are the safest and most appropriate within the Monuments for property to be left. Areas not listed may be subject to a greater risk of theft or vandalism. Unattended property left in the parks without the permission of the superintendent may be impounded.
36 CFR 2.23 - Recreation Fees
(b) Recreation fees, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment, or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events, or specialized recreation uses:
Entrance Fee Areas: Montezuma Castle Unit and Tuzigoot National Monument:
-
- $10 per person, age 16 and older, for entrance to both units
- There is no charge for entrance into the Montezuma Well Unit.
- $35 annual park specific pass, valid for one year from date of purchase
(c) The collection of recreation fees will be suspended during the following periods:
As designated by the Director of the National Park Service, or by the park superintendent as necessary.
36 CFR 2.35 - Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances
(a)(3)(i) The following areas are closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or the possession of a bottle, can, or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed:
- Inside Visitor Centers and on adjacent patio/porch areas
- At all interpretive activities within NPS jurisdiction
- On trails
Determination: Alcoholic beverages are inappropriate within the visitor centers since they serve as public museums. The educational purpose of the museum is the primary focus. Alcoholic beverages are allowed outside of the buildings in accordance with applicable laws. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited along public trails for the safety of all visitors. Trails are narrow with exposure to cliffs and other hazards.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages poses an increased threat of accidents along trails. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at interpretive activities within NPS jurisdiction for the safety of all visitors and to keep the experience focused and appropriate.
36 CFR 2.38 (b) - Explosives
Using or possessing fireworks, firecrackers, or other explosives devices within the monuments is prohibited.
Determination: Using or possessing fireworks, firecrackers, or other explosives devices is inherently dangerous, constitutes a fire hazard, and is not appropriate within a heavily visited protected natural and cultural resource.
36 CFR 2.52 – Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
Sale or distribution of printed materials is allowed by permit only in designated areas. Vehicles may not be approached.
See descriptions of permitted areas under 36 CFR § 2.51 DEMONSTRATIONS, and in Appendices A, B, and C.
36 CFR 2.60 – Livestock Use and Agriculture
(a) Absent a permit, the running-at-large, herding, driving across, allowing on, pasturing or grazing of livestock of any kind in a park area for agricultural purposes is prohibited. Additionally, a permit can only be issued in the following circumstances:
(a)(1) As specifically authorized by Federal statutory law; or
(a)(2) As required under a reservation of use of rights arising from acquisition of a tract of land; or
(a)(3) As designated, when conducted as a necessary and integral part of a recreational activity or required in order to maintain a historic scene
36 CFR 2.62 - Memorialization
(a) The placement of memorials within the monuments is prohibited.
Determination: The placement of memorials may cause damage to sensitive resources. Increased human activity at such areas may promote adverse effects such as ground compaction, disruption to vehicle traffic flow, damage, or disturbance of archaeological or historic heritage sites, and interference with normal patterns of wildlife behavior or movement.
(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited.
Determination: The scattering of human remains, or ashes can conflict with the spiritual or cultural practices of indigenous people traditionally associated with the monuments. In addition, the presence of modern remains could affect the National Park Service's ability to preserve and protect human remains that are themselves cultural resources.
36 CFR 3.16 – Swimming and Bathing
(a) All areas within the boundaries of Montezuma Castle (including the unit of Montezuma Well) and Tuzigoot National Monuments are closed to swimming.
Determination: Swimming within Montezuma Well could impact the fragile natural and cultural resources within. The Well is also not a safe area to allow public swimming with dangerous underwater features and no accessibility.
36 CFR Part 4: Vehicle and Traffic Safety
36 CFR 4.21 - Speed Limits
(a)(1) Non posted speed limits: 15 miles per hour on all roadspicnic areas, parking areas, utility areas, business or residential areas, other places of public assemblage, and at emergency scenes.
(b) The maximum speed limits on all public roads within the monument areas are posted. The superintendent can reduce limits for public safety as conditions require. The following speed limits are established and posted for the routes/roads indicated:
- Montezuma Castle Highway: 35 MPH, 25MPH, 15MPH, and 10MPH. The speed limit is posted with standard speed limit signs and decreases gradually as one is traveling towards the visitor center parking lot and the housing area road.
- Montezuma Well Unit entrance road: 15 MPH
- Tuzigoot Road (Tuzigoot entrance road)
- From Old Hwy 89A to Sycamore Canyon Road: 25 MPH
- From Sycamore Canyon Road to just after the curve below the pueblo: 35MPH
- Below the pueblo approaching the main entrance gate: 25 MPH
- About 1/10 mile before the main entrance gate, parking lots, housing areas, and maintenance areas: 15 MPH
Determination: The Superintendent has determined that these restrictions are necessary to promote traffic and visitor safety, and to reduce wildlife mortalities caused by vehicular collisions.
36 CFR 4.30 – Bicycles
(a) Bicycles are allowed on all paved roads which are open to public and must obey traffic laws. Bicycle use on trails, including paved trails, is prohibited. Bicycle use on dirt roads closed to public vehicle use is prohibited.
(b) There are no designated bike lanes, paths, or trails within the boundaries of Montezuma Castle (Montezuma Well Unit).
(c) Bicycles are permitted on the established trails within Tavasci Marsh and are posted with universal bike signage.
Determination: The steep terrain and volume of pedestrian traffic encountered on the trail system at the monuments precludes the safe use of bicycles and similar devices.
(d) E Bikes:
The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.)
E-bikes are allowed in the Monuments on paved roads and other areas where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited under section (a) above. 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 the Monuments 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.
