Recreation Residences

Introduction

As a recreation residence permit holder, you are a partner with the Forest Service in stewardship of these historic resources. As a permit holder of a historic or contributing recreation residence, you assume the responsibility of maintaining the natural and historic character of your structures, improvements, and the land around them. The Forest Service developed this guide to help you identify and understand your role as the permit holder and owner of your recreation residence on National Forest System lands.

The National Historic Preservation Act and Forest Service Special Use Permits

Federal agencies must manage and preserve historic properties under Federal jurisdiction, as directed by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Forest Service officials are required to identify, evaluate, and plan for potential effects and avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse impacts to historic properties located on Federal lands or pursuant to a Federal action.

Compliance requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act, located in Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 800, section 106, specify a standard process that Federal agency officials must use to consider the potential impacts of proposed “undertakings” (projects) on historic properties. This process is completed through consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), Native American Tribes, and other interested parties. Using this process, agency officials obtain the best possible information for developing alternatives that avoid, minimize, or mitigate any adverse impacts to historic properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are recreation residences real estate?

No, rec residences, or Forest cabins, are not real estate and the owner has no special rights or interest in the Federal land underneath the cabin. 

Can I keep Forest visitors away from my cabin? 

Although public camping and campfires are not allowed on recreation tracts [citation?], you cannot prevent visitors from accessing public lands, including your cabin lot. The cabin program was specifically designed to enhance the visitor experience.

Can I add rooms or buildings to my cabin?

Any work that changes the outward appearance of the cabin must be approved by the Forest in writing. As a cabin owner, you should ensure that you have a copy of this approval for your records. Cabin owners are allowed to do interior renovations as long as they have the appropriate County permits.