Lands and Recreation Special Use Permits
Each year, the Forest Service receives thousands of individual and business applications for authorization for use of public land we manage. The Forest’s special-use program, which follows agency policy and federal law, allows uses of those lands that provide a benefit to the general public and protect public and natural resources values.
A Special Use Authorization is a permit, term permit, temporary permit, lease, or easement or other written instrument that grants rights or privileges of occupancy and use subject to specified terms and conditions on National Forest land. The occupancy and use may be for a one-day event such as a wedding or bicycle race, or for up to 40 years such as a ski resort permit. Our policy is to manage special uses on National Forest lands in a manner that protects natural resource values, public health and safety, and is consistent with the Forest land and resource management plans.
- If you will need to occupy, use, or build on NFS land for personal or business purposes, whether the duration is temporary or long term.
- If there is a fee being charged or if income is derived from the use.
- If an activity on NFS land involves individuals or organization with 75 or more participants or spectators.
- Contact the Forest Service office where you want a permit.
- Prior to submitting the proposal, you are required to arrange a pre-application meeting at the local Forest Service office where the use is being requested. A staff member will discuss your proposal, potential land use conflicts, application procedures and qualifications, probable time frames, fees, bonding requirements, additional coordination with other agencies, environmental reports, and field reviews.
- Most commercial uses require additional information with the application. You may need business plans, operating plans, liability insurance, licenses/registrations, or other documents. A commercial use is when an applicant intends to make use of NFS lands for business or financial gain.
- Complete and submit the application form, including supporting documents, to the local Forest Service office. An incomplete proposal could delay the processing.
- Cost Recovery Fee is an assessment of fees to recover agency processing costs for special-use applications and monitoring costs for special-use authorizations. These fees are separate from any fees charged for the use and occupancy of agency lands.
- Land Use Fee is an annual rental fee based on the fair market value for the uses authorized and is payable in advance. Fees are established by appraisal or other sound business management principles.
- Other Associated Costs may be determined after you provide information and reports necessary to determine the feasibility and environmental impacts of your proposal, compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and terms and conditions to be included in the authorization.
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.
Types of Permits
Lands Special Use Permits
Any non-recreational activity that allows occupancy, use, rights, or privileges must have a Special Use Authorization, including commercial film and photography, telecommunications, road and utility rights, recreation residences, etc.
Outfitter and Guide Permits
The Forest Service issues Outfitter and Guide Permits to provide quality recreation experiences on connections on the National Forest.
Recreation Event Special Use Permits
Recreation events on the Forest such as races, rides or tournaments may require a special use permit.