Special Use and Event Permits
Recreation special use permits are required for any activity that will occur on National Forest System lands for the following reasons:
- The proponent/applicant intends to charge an entry or participation fee
- The primary purpose is the sale of a good or service, regardless of whether the use or activity is intended to produce a profit
Types of recreation special use permits
These permits are for short-term, nonrenewable outfitting and guiding use that is authorized in increments of 50 service days, up to a maximum of 200 service days in a 180-day period. These permits are generally intended for organized groups, such as churches, schools, educational groups and similar organizations.
They are not intended for recurring use or as the basis for the establishment of a commercial business activity on the national forest. Approving these types of permits is at the discretion of the authorized officer.
There are a limited number of service days for recreation activities available in limited areas on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Proposals for these types of permits must be submitted prior to the established deadline for that corresponding season of proposed use. Proposals are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Please note: Liability insurance is required for all recreation special use permits.
These permits are issued for organized events of temporary nature, such as snowshoe race, dog trials, fishing contests, boat races, motorcycle trials, llama shows and mountain bike races.
A permit is required for these activities, regardless of the number of participants. Approving these types of permits and recurring annual permits are at the discretion of the authorized officer. Proposals for these types of permits must be submitted prior to the established deadline for that corresponding season of proposed use. Proposals are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
These permits are issued for those groups that intend to use the national forest on a regular or recurring basis or are requesting a large number of service days. These proposals may have competitive interests for the activity, and proponents may be required to submit proposals through a competitive process. The availability for new priority outfitter and guide special use permits are very limited on the PSICC. Contact the individual ranger district office to ask if priority permits are available.
The U.S. Forest Service permits commercial filming and still photography on Forest Service lands. Like other short-term commercial uses of National Forest System lands, commercial filming requires a special use permit issued by the district ranger.
- An application packet must be submitted at least 10 business days prior to the proposed start date.
- The use of drones requires additional documentation and will require day-of notifications for flights to be authorized.