Permits
The Forest Service offers places for recreational activities, and many of the facilities and services associated with these opportunities are free. However, some require fees or permits to help maintain, manage, and improve your national forests and grasslands. Common activities requiring a permit include wood cutting, Christmas trees (seasonal), commercial mushroom picking (personal use does not require a permit), outfitter and guiding, filming, photography, family reunions, weddings, research, or oil & gas production.
Contact a local Ranger District Station for additional information.
Special Use Permits
Special Use Permits grant certain rights or privileges to occupy and use a specific area. These permits contain specific terms and conditions that the permit holder must follow. They are issued to profit and non-profit organizations and include:
- Group activities that have 75 or more people or if a fee is collected for the activity.
- Outfitting and guiding.
- Recreation events, such as weddings, family reunions, and bicycle races.
Contact a local Ranger District Station for more information.
Recreation Permits
Recreation Permits
The Forest Service may require recreation permits when extra measures are needed to protect natural or cultural resources, restrict the number of people participating in the activity at any time, provide extra safety, or provide other specialized services.
Special Recreation Permits Examples
Shooting ranges, special events, specialized trail systems.
Contact a local Ranger District Station for more information.
Research Permits
Research Survey Proposal Request & Approval Process
Are you interested in conducting research/surveys on public lands? Learn how to request a permit for research/survey-related work on the Dakota Prairie Grasslands.