Event/Commercial Permits

A Special Use Authorization is a permit that grants rights or privileges of occupancy and use subject to specified terms and conditions on National Forest land.

The following are the most common activities for which people request special use permits on the Siuslaw National Forest [where is this?].

  • Weddings, family reunions, company picnics or group gatherings

  • Filming for motion pictures or commercials (including drone footage)

  • Commercial photography

  • Foot, bike, dog or any other type of race

  • Poker Runs

  • Festivals

  • Tournaments

Examples of outfitting and guiding operations include: guided hiking, OHV tours, environmental education programs, trailhead shuttle services. 

*See note at bottom of page about commercial vendors, and long term occupancy permits**

 

Do I need a permit?

That depends on the size of your activity or event, if you are using props and/or structures, and if you are making money or charging participation fees.

In general, if your event has fewer than 75 people, does not use props or structures, and is noncommercial, you do not need a permit.

Examples:

Activity or Use

Permit Required?

Type of Permit

  • Weddings, family reunions, company or group gatherings

Depends on:
Group size, location, use of props, dates

Forest Guidelines for non-commercial group use permits

Non Commercial Group Use

  • Filming for motion pictures or commercials (including drone footage)

  • Commercial photography

Yes

Commercial Use

  • Foot, bike, dog or any other type of race

  • Poker Runs

  • Festivals

  • Tournaments

Yes

NOTE: Beginning in Fall 2008, applications for Recreation Events on the Central Coast Ranger District and Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area will only be accepted between October 15 & December 15 each year.

Commercial Recreation Event

See the national Forest Service website for more examples of special use permit activities.

Not sure if you need a Special Use Permit? Please contact us.

Our policy is to manage special uses on National Forest lands in a manner that:

  • protects natural resource values,

  • protects public health and safety,

  • and is consistent with the Forest land and resource management plans.

Before a special use proposal is approved, the agency must determine that the proposed use complies with the Forest's land and resource management plan; that National Environmental Policy Act requirements are met; there is a demonstrated need for the activity on National Forest System lands; and the use is appropriate on National Forest System lands.

None of the existing special use authorities provide for permanent use of National Forest System lands.

NOTE:
Proposals for commercial vending operations are currently not accepted. Applications for these services will only be accepted through a competitive process initiated by the Forest Service.
Examples of vending operations include: coffee shops, hot dog stands, OHV repair services or clothing sales.

Permits for long term occupancy such as a road or cell phone tower are handled separately. Please contact us for more information.

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