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Law Enforcement Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the basic rules for my visit to the national forest?
There are numerous rules and regulations governing the occupancy and use of National Forest System lands. They may be found at 36 CFR Part 261. Additional rules may be enacted under the authority of the forest supervisor, called ‘forest orders” or sometimes “closure orders.” All state criminal and traffic laws apply to the national forest lands.
2. What are Closure Orders and Forest Orders?
Forest orders, also referred to as closure orders, are implemented when there is a specific need for additional rules or restrictions to protect the public or national forest resources and facilities. These rules differ from forest to forest and are usually site-specific.
3. Can I carry a firearm on the national forest?
The possession and unconcealed carry of a firearm on the national forest is not restricted by federal law or Forest Service regulations with the exception of “prohibited possessors,” such as convicted felons, 8 USC 922g.
State laws regarding the concealed carry of firearms and the carrying of weapons within or on a motor vehicle apply on national forests.
4. Can I shoot a firearm on the national forest?
National forest regulations prohibit the discharge of a firearm within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or any other occupied area; across a road or any body of water adjacent to a road; into or within a cave; or in any negligent manner that could endanger life or property, 36 CFR 261.10d. The National Forest also closes areas to recreational shooting year-round due to proximity to local communities. During periods of high fire danger, additional restrictions on the use of firearms may be imposed. None of the temporary or year-round restrictions prohibit the use of a firearm in the lawful taking of game.
5. Why are there fees on the national forest?
Because appropriated funds have been and continue to be inadequate to build, maintain, and service our most popular recreation sites and facilities, Congress enacted a law called the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004 (16 usc 6802-PDF) . This law authorizes the Forest Service and other federal land management agencies to charge modest fees for the use of recreation sites that provide certain public amenities. The law further authorizes agencies to retain those fees be used in direct support of those sites.
5. Why does the Forest Service need law enforcement officers?
Although state and county law enforcement personnel have full authority to enforce state law on national forests, only forest officers can enforce the federal laws, rules and regulations that apply to the protection of the national forests.