Outfitters & Guides Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs a special use permit for outfitting and guiding on the National Forest?

A special use permit for outfitting and guiding on National Forest System land is required when an individual, company, organization, institution, or nonprofit group charges a participatory fee for guiding services and/or provides recreation equipment. 

This policy is based on the following official definitions:

• Guiding - Providing services or assistance such as supervision, protection, education, training, packing, touring, subsistence, interpretation or other assistance to individuals or groups in their pursuit of a natural resource-based outdoor activity for pecuniary remuneration or other gain.
• Outfitting - Providing through rental or livery a saddle or pack animal, vehicle or boat, tents or camp gear, or similar supplies or equipment, for pecuniary remuneration or other gain.

Can I call someone before I write and submit my application?

Yes! We encourage you to call us before filling out your application in case we know whether or not we can allow your request(s). Please contact Cate Dillon, Special Uses Permit Administrator, at (503) 668-1640 or catherine.dillon@usda.gov for any questions about the details of your application.

Can I outfit and guide in the Wilderness?

Yes, depending on multiple factors including public need and services offered. However, the Mt. Hood National Forest is not accepting new proposals to guide in the Mount Hood Wilderness at this time.

Why is the Forest Service directed under law to issue outfitter and guide permits?

Outfitter and guide permits help the Forest Service ensure that recreation services and assistance provided to the public on National Forest System lands is of the highest quality. Permits help protect public health and safety as well as natural resources. Permits also protect the financial interests of the public by requiring permit holders to provide proof of insurance and by returning a fee to the federal treasury.

How does the Forest Service determine a need for outfitter and guide services?

The decision to issue an outfitter/guide permit is based on a few criteria including public need for the particular service and the capacity of the land to support the use. A public need for outfitting and guiding services exists when such services are essential or required for the wellbeing of the public, needed to meet the intent of the Forest’s mission to manage and protect resources, provide for public safety, and provide high quality public recreation experiences or benefits. Market generated demand (solicited business) by a potential guide does not by itself constitute a public need.

The Mt. Hood National Forest Land Management Plan provides basic direction concerning recreation and issuance of outfitter/guide permits. The Plan recognizes that the Mt. Hood National Forest is an “urban forest” adjacent to growing cities. That proximity makes this Forest a major provider of nature-based recreation opportunities.  Among the Guiding Principles in the Forest Plan are the following:

• “Foster coordination among all partners who provide outdoor recreation activities and settings.
• Enable people to learn and grow in their outdoor experience.
• Integrate other resource objectives consistent with sound forest management.
• Be primary advocates and providers of outdoor recreation opportunities that are appropriate to a large natural forest setting.
• Be leaders in providing environmental education and outdoor recreation as part of urban outreach efforts.
• Seek bridging opportunities to tie local and State tourism strategies to the Forest mission.”

What specific criteria does the Forest Service use to evaluate a proposal for a Special Use Permit?

We first evaluate an outfitter and guide proposal against first and second level screening criteria contained in the Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR 251.54).

Link to Screening Criteria (.doc)

Only after a proposal has passed the above criteria, is it evaluated on its capability to address the following ten categories and become an application:

 The following five categories define the nature of the proposed outfitter/guide activity:

• Skill
• Equipment
• Knowledge
• Safety
• Current Interest and Projected Demand

The following five categories are based on the outfitter/guide proponent’s business plan:

• Unique Marketing & Community Economic Vitality
• Ability to address Under-Served Populations
• Dispersal of Use in Time & Space
• Conservation Education
• Sustainable Recreation

When this review has been completed, the proposal is submitted to the District Ranger who is responsible for the forest area where the activity would occur.  The District Ranger may accept or deny the proposal.  Acceptance allows the proposal to become a formal application.  At this point, resource specialists determine and evaluate any concerns or possible impacts from the application activities on the natural or social resources of the forest.

After the specialists complete and deliver their reports to the District Ranger, a decision is made about issuing a permit.  

When can I submit my proposal? What form do I need to submit it?

The Mt. Hood National Forest has an open season from January 1 to March 1 for outfitter/guide permit renewals and proposals. This system is necessary to efficiently process the large number of outfitter/guide requests received by the Forest.

The form for a new request is posted below. As you review this form, you will find additional information regarding basic requirements, fees/fee payment options and required insurance.

The Forest Service Special Use Outfitter/Guide Permit department is available during the open season to answer questions and provide additional information. You may contact them by email at SM.FS.mthpermits@usda.gov.

The Forest Service prefers that proposals be submitted electronically to expedite review and processing.

Link to Outfitter Guide Operation Plan/Proposal