Permits

Special Use Authorizations

What is a special-use permit? 

• Permits are required to use National Forests lands when there is commercial gain, or when there is an impact on the Forest.
• A special-use authorization is a legal document such as a permit, term permit, lease, or easement, which allows occupancy, use, rights, or privileges of agency land. The authorization is granted for a specific use of the land for a specific period of time. 

When is a special-use permit necessary? 

• If you will need to occupy, use or build on Forest Service land for personal or business purposes, whether the duration is temporary or long term. This includes weddings, commercial filming and some photo shoots, outfitting, and guiding, etc.
• If there is a fee being charged or if income is derived from the use.
• If an activity on those lands land involve individuals or organization with 75 or more participants or spectators.

How to apply for a special-use permit:

• Contact the closest Forest Service office to request an application and further directions.
• To see application information and the current list of applications being considered on the Forest, click here.

Additional information can be found at the National Forest Service Contracts & Commercial Permits Website .

Public Geocache Placement Application

Approval of all geocache contents, design, and location must be registered prior to placement of items on public lands using the application form. Contact the closest Forest Service office to request an application and further directions.

Firewood Collection

Individuals camping on the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are welcome to collect dead and down wood for their evening campfire without a permit. Firewood collected without a permit must be used for a campfire on the Forest; it cannot be taken home or taken to private land. No standing trees may be cut - dead or alive - of any size. 

Individuals who wish to collect firewood on the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests to burn at home or on private property must purchase a firewood permit. Firewood may only be collected in the designated areas provided with the firewood permit. Each firewood permit allows for the collection of up to 4 CCF (approximately four full-size pickup truck loads or four cords). The permit is valid for cutting dead and down wood only.

A standard firewood permit allows you to cut wood for personal use only. A special use permit may be required to collect firewood in bulk or for commercial purposes.

Permits may be purchased in person at your local district office or as an e-permit. If obtaining an e-permit, download collection area maps here.