Special Use Permits

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Cameramen filming at the forest
A permit may be required for group gatherings or events, filming or videography, research, plant collection, or long term uses such as outfitter guides, telecommunication towers and water systems, among others.

What are special-use authorizations?

A special-use authorization is a legal document such as a permit, term permit, lease, or easement, which allows occupancy, use, rights, or privileges of National Forest System lands. The authorization is granted for a specific use of the land for a specific period of time.

Depending on the complexity of the proposal, obtaining a Special Use Authorization can sometimes be a lengthy process. Please provide ample time to coordinate with staff on proposed projects.

NOTE: It is important to know that not all proponents will receive a permit, therefore any action taken before receiving a Special Use authorization, such as occupying National Forest System Lands and advertising or expending funds, is premature and at the proponent's risk--and may be against the law.

When do I need an authorization?

If you will need to occupy, use, or build on National Forest System lands for personal or business purposes, whether the duration is temporary or long term.
If there is a fee being charged or if income is derived from the use.
If an activity on NFS land involves individuals or organization with 75 or more participants or spectators.

Is my proposal appropriate?

Your request must be consistent with laws, regulations, orders, policies of NFS lands, other federal laws, and applicable State and local health and sanitation laws.
Your request must be consistent or made consistent with the standards and guidelines in the applicable Land and Resource Management Plan.
Your request must not pose serious or substantial risk to public health or safety.
Your request must not require exclusive or perpetual right of use or occupancy.
Your request does not unreasonably conflict or interfere with administrative uses, other scheduled or authorized existing uses, or use of adjacent non-NFS lands.
The proponent must not owe any fees to the Forest Service from a prior or existing special-use authorization.
No gambling or providing of sexually oriented commercial services can be authorized on NFS land, even if permitted under state law.
No military or paramilitary training or exercises by private organizations or individuals can be authorized on NFS land, unless it is federally funded.
No disposal of solid waste or storage or disposal of radioactive or other hazardous substances can be authorized on NFS land.

What does an authorization cost?

Cost Recovery Fees
An assessment of fees to recover agency costs for processing special use applications and costs for monitoring special use authorizations. These fees are separate from any fees charged for the use and occupancy of NFS lands. Cost Recovery fees only apply to recreation permits if the permit processing time is more than 50 hours.

Land Use Fees
This is an annual rental fee based on the fair market value for the uses authorized and is payable in advance. Fees are established by appraisal or other sound business management principles.

Other Associated Costs
You may be responsible for providing information and reports necessary to determine the feasibility and environmental impacts of your proposal; compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and terms and conditions to be included in the authorization.

Forms

You may access the most common forms HERE.
You may request them by emailing SM.FS.EYNFSU@USDA.GOV

More Information on Specific Special Use Permits

Commercial Permits

Prospectus for Outfitting and Guiding on El Yunque

Providing recreation opportunities is a key part of the Forest Service’s mission. The agency relies upon outfitters and guides to fulfill this responsibility.

Learn More