Nordhoff Ridge Road Permit Instructions

Instructions to Obtain a Permit and

Usage Guidelines for Nordhoff Ridge Road

The following instructions and guidelines are intended to inform and educate you about Nordhoff Ridge Road in the Ojai Ranger District. The area will remain open to the public if everyone follows the guidelines listed below.

The U.S. Forest Service has a limited budget; your help in maintaining this area in its pristine condition is important so that you and others can visit it again. Access to the road is controlled with a locked gate and a limited number of permits are available to maintain the area's desirable condition. We ask for everyone's cooperation to ensure future public use of this area.

1. When is Nordhoff Ridge Road open?

The road is seasonal and is open from May 1 through December 15.

2. How far in advance do I need to apply for a permit?

Allow at least 5 business days in advance for the Forest Service to obtain all of your information, review your request, deny or approve it, and issue a permit. If your application is denied, you will receive a notice with an explanation.

3. How many vehicles are allowed?

Nordhoff Ridge Road has a limit of 10 vehicles per day.

4. What type of vehicles are suitable for or allowed on the road?

ONLY high clearance (8"-ground clearance) vehicles, 4x4 vehicles, and off-road appropriate street legal motorcycles are permitted. *Quad runners, side-x-side, and ATVs are not allowed.*

5. How do I apply for a permit?

Each vehicle’s driver must apply for their own permit (in the same email is OK). Please email your request to: sm.fs.nordhoff_rdg@usda.gov

6. What do I include in my email request?

• Full Name, Address, and Telephone number
• A copy of your driver’s license (in .pdf or .jpg format)
• Make, Model, and Year of vehicle traveling including license number
• Number of people in party
• Dates of travel
• Four-wheel Driving Experience: Beginner, intermediate, advanced - Describe your reasoning for your skill level and terrain driven

7. How much does it cost?

There is no cost to these permits.

8. If I am a beginner, where can I go?

If you are inexperienced in operating four-wheel drive, you are not allowed to access Nordhoff Ridge Road. Only experienced drivers are permitted (up to the Fire Tower).

9. How and when can I expect to get my permit?

After 5 business days, a permit will be emailed back to the email address you have provided.

10. Now I have my permit, how do I get in? And to get out?

You will receive a gate code and entry/exit points written on your permit. Please note that Sisar Canyon is not an exit route. The Rose Valley gate is the only entry AND exit point.

11. What do I do to enjoy the adventure?

1. Plan accordingly and for emergency situations. 
2. Open the gate, drive in, and lock it behind you.
3. Stay on the designated roads. Stay on the right side of the road and drive at a safe speed.
4. Remove all your belongings and TRASH upon your departure of the Los Padres National Forest.
5. Share the road. Trucks, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and hikers all use this road, so be aware of who is around you while driving.
6. Be respectful of landowners' signage, and do not disturb residents. 

12. How long is a permit good for?

A permit is valid for one day, and up to two days if camping overnight is planned. No multiple days (like 3 days or more). Reservations may be made for up to 2 days in a 7-day period.

DO NOT let in behind you other vehicles without a permit.

DO NOT leave both entry and exit gates unlocked behind you.

DO NOT share the gate code.

WARNINGS:

**Abandoning property in the forest for more than 24 hours could result in a fine from $150 up to $5,000** 

**Anyone failing to comply with all the rules and regulations for the forest may have their permits revoked for up to 1 year**

PLEASE USE THE LATEST INSTRUCTIONS AND GUIDELINES AS THEY ARE UPDATED REGULARLY ACCORDING TO THE WEATHER AND TRAIL CONDITIONS