Event/Commercial Permits

Special Use Permits                 Photo of powerline, organizational camp sign, recreation residence and communications site

Annually the Forest Service receives thousands of individual and business applications requesting the use of National Forest System (NFS) lands for such activities as water transmission, agriculture, outfitting and guiding, recreation events, telecommunication, research, photography, and video productions, and granting road and utility right- of- ways.

Special uses are defined as:

All uses of National Forest System lands, improvements, and resources, except those authorized by the regulations governing sharing use of roads (CFR§ 212.9); grazing and livestock use (part 222); the sale and disposal of timber and special forest products, such as greens, mushrooms, and medicinal plants (part 223); and minerals (part 228) are designated "special uses." 

A special-use authorization is a legal document such as a permit, term permit, lease, or easement that allows occupancy, use, rights, or NFS lands privileges. Authorizations grant rights or privileges of occupancy for the private, non-exclusive use of NFS land for various approved uses. These permits contain specific terms and conditions that the holder must follow. 

Before conducting a special-use activity or use, individuals or entities must submit an application to be reviewed by the Forest Service.  The request will be analyzed to determine if the proposed use complies with all management plans and laws, if there is a demonstrated need for the activity, and if the use is appropriate on NFS lands. Special-use Permits are a temporary authority granted for a specific land use for a particular period of time.

Depending on the proposal's complexity, obtaining a Special Use Authorization can sometimes be a lengthy process. The Lassen National Forest asks for all proposals to be submitted 90 days in advance to facilitate this process. Please coordinate early with the district where you would like to operate by calling the special uses staff at one of our office locations.

It is important to note not all proponents will receive approval for 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, against the law, and at the proponent's own risk. 

Permit Types

The Forest Service authorizes hundreds of different types of uses. Typically, NFS land is not made available if the individual or business's overall needs can be met on nonfederal lands. Select the categories below for more specific permit information.

For more information about permits, contact one of our following offices.

  • Almanor Ranger District (530) 258-2141

  • Eagle Lake Ranger District (530) 257-4188

  • Hat Creek Ranger District (530) 336-5521

  • Supervisors Office (530) 257-2151