Permits & Reservations

 

NO DRONE ZONE

The park receives inquiries about the use of drones in the park. Drones are not permitted within the boundaries of Canyon de Chelly National Monument. There is more information about the use of unmanned aircrafts under Laws & Policies.

Unmanned Aircraft defined: The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

 

BACKCOUNTRY PERMITS

The Navajo Parks and Recreation Department (NPRD) office located near the entrance of the Cottonwood Campground issues backcountry permits for canyon tours and collects fees for overnight camping. Please contact NPRD at 928-674-2106 for more information.

SPECIAL USE PERMITS

All permit applications will be reviewed on a case by case basis

A Special Use Permit (SUP) is required for activities that provide benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large; and that require written authorization and some degree of management control in order to protect park resources and the public interest. Examples include weddings and other large group gatherings. Special Use Permits are granted for specific periods of time and specific locations.

A permit may be required for an event to:

• maintain public health and safety;

• protect environmental or scenic values;

• protect natural or cultural resources;

• allow for equitable allocation or use of facilities; or

• avoid conflict among visitor use activities.

Filming, Still Photography, or Audio Recordings

In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:

• Occurs in areas open to the public;
• Uses hand-carried equipment only;
• Does not require exclusive use of a site;
• Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and
• Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS.

Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity.

All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under the new law. It does not matter whether it is commercial, non-commercial, for content creation, by a student, or conducted by media or for news gathering.

When a filming, still photography, or audio recording permit is required, the National Park Service will charge fees to recover its costs to administer the permit, including application fees.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording remain subject to all other laws and regulations applicable to visitors to park areas, including those requiring permits for certain activities (e.g., special events or demonstrations) and those prohibiting disturbance or other negative impacts to natural or cultural resources.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording are subject to entrance and/or recreation fees that may apply in park areas even when a permit is not required.

Are there other permit requirements?

You may be required to obtain liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured in an amount commensurate with the risk posed to park resources by your proposed activity. You may also be asked to post a bond to ensure the payment of all charges and fees and the restoration of the area if necessary.

The application packet must include:

• Detailed production schedule, proposed locations or itinerary
• Detailed cast and crew list including name and role or names of participants (large organized groups)
• Detailed equipment list including model of equipment
• Written permission from landowner for organized group camping

Applying for a Permit

If you plan on filming or hosting a special event (activities outside a regular visit) at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, please contact the Permit Coordinator at [e-mail] for more information. Your request may require you to submit an application, fee, and insurance certificate for consideration.

Please be advised that the park works with the Navajo Nation for filming activities; this may require additional requirements and fees. For more information, contact the Navajo Nation TV and Film Office at [phone].

Please allow time for applications to be reviewed and processed. Applications must be submitted 30 business days prior to your event for the park to process your request. Every effort will be made to accommodate permit applications sooner if allowed by processes.

Permit Applications

Special Events - This application is for events such as weddings and large group events.

Filming and Still Photography - This application is for filming and still photography

 

FIRST AMENDMENT

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources.

First Amendment Special Events

Some examples of special events that fall under First Amendment Rules:

• distribution and/or sale of printed matter
• religious services
• public demonstrations or assemblies, etc.

When is a First Amendment permit needed?

Individuals or groups planning to hold a demonstration in a park are encouraged to contact us in advance to discuss the proposed activity. The NPS may reasonably regulate certain aspects of First Amendment activities, such as the time when, the place where, and the manner in which the activity is conducted. There are no permit fees associated with First Amendment permits.

Designated First Amendment Sites

Canyon de Chelly National Monument has a designated site for first amendment activities. Based on  36CFR 2.51 and 2.52 groups of 25 people or fewer may use these areas without a permit as long as they are not using stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems. These areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis, however, small groups may want to obtain a permit to ensure they have the use of the area.

Groups over 25 people and groups using stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems, or for distribution of printed matter (36 CFR 2.52) need to apply for a permit for a designated area.