Special Permits:
Group activities of more than 15 visitors such as family reunions, company picnics and group campouts require special permits. Please call park headquarters at 806-857-3151 for information and guidelines.
1. Special Use Permits are required for functions such as fishing tournaments, weddings, special events, filming, etc.
Commercial Use Authorization
What is a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)?
A CUA allows an individual, group, company or other for-profit entity to provide commercial visitor services within a National Park area. Services provided to NPS employees are not covered by CUAs (e.g., Schwan's grocery delivery). Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) are required for all commercial visitor services provided by a company or organization not based in the park.
What does the law and regulations say about CUAs?
PL 105-391, Section 418 and 36 CFR 5.3 require NPS issue and charge a reasonable fee for CUAs. The law requires that NPS ensure CUAs:
- Are accomplished in a manner consistent to the highest practicable degree with the preservation and conservation of park resources and values;
- Are consistent with the purpose for which the Park was established;
- Comply with all applicable management plans, park policies and regulations;
- Are subjects to conditions promoting the safety of visitors;
- Limit the liability of the United States Government;
- Are subject to a reasonable fee that at a minimum recovers administrative and management costs of the CUA.
Who needs a CUA?
A CUA is required if an entity provides a good, activity, service, or other function to visitors in a NPS managed area, uses park resources and results in compensation, monetary gain, benefit or profit.
2. Commercial Use Authorization
