Weddings and Non-commercial Group Use

• Back to Events/Commercial Permits

Non-commercial group use permits are for an activity that:

1. Involves 75 or more people including spectators,
2. Where an entry or participate fee is not charged, and
3. Where the primary purpose is not the sale of a good or service (36CFR251.51).

Keep this is mind, whether your gathering requires a permit or not:

• Access for the general public to sites, trails, and/or roads must be maintained (no area may be closed or cordoned off).  
• Wedding ceremonies may not be officiated by individuals who are paid for their services; this is a commercial service widely available off of National Forest System land. 
• No vendors or food trucks or carts are allowed.
• No excessive noise or public address systems near a campsite, developed recreation site or over an adjacent body of water.
• Throwing objects, including rice, birdseed, confetti, or lanterns or the release of helium balloons is prohibited.  
• Decorations such as crepe paper and balloons are prohibited. 
• All litter must be disposed of properly.
• Expect to have contact with members of the recreating public during your gathering, especially at popular sites. 
• Plan your event early or late in the day at developed sites to avoid peak visitation and congestion times (before 11 am and after 4 pm, April through September). 

Contacts:

Brittany Clegg, Recreation Special Use Coordinator
360-798-7848
Brittany.Clegg@usda.gov