Rules and Regulations

Welcome to your national forests! Please visit the links below for federal, regional, state and forest regulations applicable to the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests. As a forest visitor, we ask you to follow certain rules designed to ensure your health and safety, to protect the forests and the natural environment, and to promote pleasant and rewarding outdoor recreation experiences for everyone. Forest officers are empowered to enforce these rules and regulations.

Code of Federal Regulations

• Forest officers on forests across the nation are empowered to enforce the general prohibitions found in Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Regional Forester and Forest Supervisor Orders 

• These additional orders, specific to the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests or forests in the Southern Region may close or restrict the use of certain areas if the need arises. Copies of the orders are available at ranger districts and at the Forest Supervisor's Office in Columbia.

Hunting and Fishing Regulations

• Hunting and fishing in South Carolina is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Visit www.dnr.sc.gov for more about the SCDNR.

South Carolina ATV Riding Regulations- The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Act: Chandler's Law

South Carolina has specific laws regarding the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), including minimum age requirements. Please "know before you go."