Special Use Permits

The National Park Service (NPS) requires a permit for activities not normally associated with a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This includes activities such as, still photography, memorials, the North Manitou Island Deer Hunt, wedding ceremonies and special events.

If you are unsure if your activity requires a special use permit (SUP), send us an email or call 231-326-4741 before applying.

Filming and Still Photography

In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions: resources or significant disruption of normal visitor use. Please review the Filming and Still Photography Information before submitting your application.

First Amendment Activity

Freedom of speech, the press, religion, and assembly are guaranteed by the Constitution and it is the policy of the National Park Service to permit groups to assemble peaceably and exercise these rights on park lands. This policy will be applied equally to all individuals and groups. Please review the First Amendment Information to determine if your activity requires a permit.

Hang Gliding and Paragliding

Launching and landing of powerless hang gliders and paragliders is allowed at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with an approved permit. To obtain a permit, applicants must have a pilot’s certificate with a current U.S. Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association (USHPA) proficiency rating. Please review the Hang Gliding and Paragliding Information before submitting your applications.

Memorial

With limitations, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore grants permission to those wishing to scatter cremated remains within the park. Please send us an email or call 231-326-4741 for more information. There is no fee for a Memorial Permit.

North Manitou Island Deer Hunt

A special deer hunt is held each year on the last Saturday of October to the first Saturday of November on North Manitou Island (NMI). A park hunting permit, along with a current Michigan deer hunting license, is required to participate in the one-week hunt. If you are interested in applying for the hunt you will find the application with the Hunt Information and Rules.

Special Events

Special events include activities such as marathons, sporting events, car cruises, entertainment, ceremonies, and fairs. Please review the Special Event Information before submitting your application.

Wedding

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore allows small, informal weddings to be held in the Lakeshore. If you are interested in holding your wedding ceremony in the National Lakeshore, please review the Wedding Information and list of approved locations before submitting your application.