Commercial Use Authorization FAQ

What is a Commercial Use Authorization and Why Would I Need One?

When is the application period?

General CUA
The CUA application period opens October 1 and closes April 1. CUA Applications postmarked after April 1 will not be accepted. Applicants who submit an application for a general CUA after the April 1 deadline will not be authorized to operate in Cape Cod National Seashore.

For what length of time is a CUA issued?

CUAs are issued for a one-year period.

The General CUA permit year is from May 1 to April 30.

 

What are the fees for a CUA?

The current fee structure for Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) at Cape Cod National Seashore includes an administrative fee and a management fee:

General CUA
The administrative fee is a non-refundable $100 application fee for each service category is due with the application.
The management fee is determined based on your CUA gross receipts: The greater amount between: 3% of gross receipts or $300 minimum.

 

Fees and Payments

For more information about fees and payments for a CUA at Cape Cod National Seashore, visit the Fees and Payments website.

 

Why does the park charge a fee for a CUA?

National Park Service Policy requires the Superintendent to charge a reasonable fee for CUAs. The park retains such fees to help pay for the cost of the CUA program.

CUA application fees stay within the park and are used to recover the administrative costs of receiving, reviewing, and processing CUA applications and required reports.

CUA management fees stay within the park and are used to recover day-to-day management, monitoring, and training costs and to fund visitor experience improvement projects.

How long does it take to obtain a CUA?

You should anticipate that you will receive the issuance of a General CUA within two weeks of the CUA authorized start date (dependent upon time of application submission). A minimum of thirty (30) business days is required for issuance of a CUA. Delays will occur if application materials are not submitted accurately or completely, or if authorizations needing operator signature are not returned promptly. All required documentation must be received by before the CUA will be issued.

 

How do I submit an application?

1. Download the Commercial Use Authorization Application
2. Review all of the application packet checklist items
3. Once you have all of the required documentation, you can submit either electronically or by mail:

Scan and email your application package to Katie Trudeau

Or mail your application package and check to:
Cape Cod National Seashore
99 Marconi Site Road
Wellfleet, MA 02667

 

Don't Forget To Submit Prompt Payment!

Submit the application fee right away, your permit will not be processed until the fee is received. Payment must be made online by visiting Pay.gov.

 

What happens once I submit an application?

1. Once we have reviewed your application packets you will be notified if further information is needed. Once we have received all required documents, we will send you a CUA authorization form for your signature.
2. You will then need to sign and return the CUA authorization form for final approval.
3. You are not authorized to begin providing commercial services in the Park until your receive the CUA that has been signed by the Superintendent, or delegated official.
4. Monthly Use Reports will be due by the 4th of each month you operate. Please submit these by email to Katie Trudeau.
5. You will need to submit annual requirements, which includes the annual report, each year, as identified in the Annual Checklist.

 

Contact our CUA Coordinator

Contact Katie Trudeau by email or telephone at [phone] for additional information and questions.

 

More Information

How to Apply for a Commercial Use Authorization
CUA Fees and Payments
Annual Reporting Requirements