Recreation Event Special Use Permits
A recreation event is any temporary event, such as race, run, ride, or tournament, which is organized using National Forest lands and facilities, and for which an entrance fee is required to participate. Event proponents may be for-profit or not-for-profit, individuals, or organizations.
- To begin the process, event proponents are responsible to complete and submit an Application Form (FS-2700-3c Special Use Application & Permit for Recreation Events) and an Operating Plan to the District Special Use Permit Administrator.
- Additionally, event proponents are responsible for considering, organizing, and funding all aspects of the event including safety, communication, parking, signing, garbage clean-up and removal, restroom facilities, accommodating other public use, and any needed restoration on National Forest lands or facilities.
- Proponents are required to provide proof of liability insurance prior to the event approval. The insurance must name the U.S. Government as an additional insured. Any other language will be rejected and could affect approval of the event.
- Please contact your Zone Special Use Permit Administrator as early in the process as possible to ensure the application can be processed in time.
- Applications and Operating Plans for recreation events must be submitted during Open Season: November 1-January 15 of each year.
- Based on the type of proposed event, the U.S. Forest Service will determine the amount of liability insurance required. Proof of insurance will be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the event. The proponent may be required to forward a copy of the entire insurance policy for review.
- If the event is approved, the Forest Service will at least bill for the minimum fee prior to the event date. At this time, that amount is $92.
- Fees for the event are based on five percent of gross revenues for a single event or three percent of gross revenues for permits for multiple events in a single calendar year.
- The only revenue reductions allowed will be for the cost of awards and prizes. The reduction must be supported with documentation of purchase (e.g. receipts or invoices) or proof of cash pay-outs (e.g. copies of checks or list of names and amounts paid).
- A post use report must be submitted within 30 days of each event.
- This signed post use report will include:
- Number of participants
- Number of spectators
- Gross income
- Cost of awards or prizes
- Any required documentation
- A reconciliation billing may be due based on adjusted income
- This signed post use report will include:
If the event uses or crosses any county or state highway or other agency land or uses private property, any authorizations needed from these agencies, companies, or individuals must be obtained prior to Forest Service permit issuance.
For more information on recreation event Special Use permits, please contact the District Special Use Permit Administrator at the appropriate District.
- East Zone, Recreation Special Use Permit Administrator (Missoula, Ninemile (within Missoula County) and Seeley Lake Ranger Districts)
- Phone: 406-329-3970
- West Zone, Recreation Special Use Permit Administrator (Ninemile (Mineral County), Plains/Thompson Falls, and Superior Ranger Districts)
- Phone: 406-822-3914