Special-use Permit Application

What are special-use authorizations?

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 do I need a special-use permit?

• 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.
• 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.

Are there forms I need to complete?

The agency has a variety of application forms based on your need.

Is my proposal appropriate?

• Your request must be consistent with current agency laws, regulations, orders and policies, other federal laws, and applicable state and local health and sanitation laws.
• Your request must be consistent or made consistent with the standards and guidelines in the applicable Land and Resource Management Plan.
• Your request must not pose serious or substantial risk to public health or safety.
• Your request must not require exclusive or perpetual right of use or occupancy.
• Your request does not unreasonably conflict or interfere with administrative uses, other scheduled or authorized existing uses, or use of adjacent non-Forest Service lands.
• The proponent must not owe any fees to the Forest Service from a prior or existing special-use authorization.
• No gambling or providing of sexually oriented commercial services can be authorized, even if permitted under state law.
• No military or paramilitary training or exercises by private organizations or individuals can be authorized, unless it is federally funded.
• No disposal of solid waste or storage or disposal of radioactive or other hazardous substances can be authorized.