Commercial Use Authorization

CUA Program Updates

CUA Online Application and Reporting System

As part of a larger effort to streamline and modernize the National Park Service (NPS) commercial use authorization (CUA) program, the NPS has developed on online system designed to process CUA applications and collect required CUA reports. 
 
The online CUA system includes a standard CUA application fee. The standard CUA application fee across all national parks will be $350 for the first application submitted by the applicant and $250 for subsequent applications from the same applicant to the same park. Application fees will be collected through the system upon application submission.    
 
Video: How to Apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) Permit 

Spring/Summer CUAs

2025 Spring & Summer CUA applications will only be accepted between December 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025 via the online CUA system. Incomplete CUA applications will continue to be processed through April 30, 2025. Applications that have not been completed by April 30, 2025 will not be issued a CUA for 2025. 
 
Please visit the Bighorn Canyon CUA Application for more details! 

 

Important Dates

• November 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025 - Spring/Summer CUA application window using the new NPS Online Application and Reporting System.  
• November 12, 2024 @ 5pm – Spring/Summer CUA meeting (optional) 
• January 31, 2025 – Last day to submit Annual Reports due for previous calendar year of operation. If your Annual Report is late, your current CUA will be suspended until we receive your Annual Report.

The National Park Service requires specific authorizations for commercial businesses to operate in national parks, usually in the form of a Commercial Use Authorization. If a business does not have a Commercial Use Authorization, they may not operate in the park. 
 
Commercial service opportunities in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area are reviewed annually and subject to change year to year.  

 

 

CUA Application Process and Required Reporting

Bighorn Canyon only accepts CUA applications during specific periods of time and require an application fee and yearly reporting. Please visit our CUA Application Process and Required Reporting page for more informaiton on dates, fees, and reporting procedures.

 

Resources

• CUA Conditions
• CUA Application Process and Reuired Reporting
• CUA Suspension, Resriction and Application Denial Policy
• Laws and Policies
• Superintendent's Compendium