Recreation Events
A permit is required for any recreation event (bike race, foot race, OHV ride, Tournament or other), regardless of the number of people involved or if a participation/entrance fee is charged or not.
It is important to note that we will not grant all permit requests. Therefore, any action you take before you receive a permit, such as occupying National Forest System Lands, or advertising or expending funds, is premature and at the proponent's risk — and is against the law.
To submit a proposal, complete and send the following forms in one email to SM.FS.R3ASRecPrmit@usda.gov or to the permit administrator for the district on which you wish to hold your event. To speak to a permit administrator, please call district office of interest to get further instruction.
- Certificate of insurance: a current, valid certificate of insurance listing the US Government as an additional insured.
- Operating plan: including detailed maps specifying the route(s) and any start/finish lines and aid stations that will be on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
- Recreation event application
- Estimated fee worksheet
Within 30 days after the event, you must send a final fee worksheet, with the final financial information to the Recreation Permit Administrator, who will determine if additional billing is required.
Proposal Deadline
A complete proposal packet must be submitted at least 90 days prior to proposed activity. More complex proposals/events should be submitted at least 6 months in advance. A submitted proposal does not guarantee a permit will be issued. If new NEPA clearance is required for the proposed use, processing can take a year or longer.