Special Use Permits

The Special Use Permit (SUP) program authorizes activities that provide benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large, and that require written authorization and some management control in order to protect park resources and the public interest. Examples include parking, special events, commercial filming/still photography, weddings, scattering of ashes, group camping, First Amendment activities, and constructing a temporary duck blind. Below you will find different types of permits you may need while visiting Cape Lookout.

Before You Apply

A non-refundable application fee is required when you submit your application, unless an exemption applies. Paying the application fee does not guarantee approval of your permit request. The fee covers the processing of your application. Your request must be reviewed and approved before a permit can be issued.

Be prepared to provide:

• Applicant name

• Organization name, if applicable

• Contact information

• Requested date or dates

• Requested location

• Description of the proposed activity

• Number of participants

• Equipment being used

• Vehicles involved, if applicable

• Insurance information, if required

 

Special Use Permits

Long-Term Parking Permit

Before you head to island to park your vehicle, make sure you have your long-term parking permit

Duck Blind Permit

If you want more details on how to obtain a duck blind permit, click here.

Houseboat Permit

If you want more details how to obtain a houseboat permit, click here

Scattering of Cremains Permit

The scattering of cremated human remains ("cremains") in Cape Lookout should be a small private affair. A Special Use Permit is required.

Group Camping Permit

Ah, camping at the beach. Have more than 24 people in your camp group? You need a special use permit!

Wedding Permit

If you are interested in holding your marriage ceremony at Cape Lookout , the following information will be helpful in making your plans

 

Filming & Still Photography

Want to use Cape Lookout for filming or still photography? Read more about obtaining a special use permit

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a link to a few answers for typical Special Use Permit questions.

Additional Permit Information

Cape Lookout may permit a special park use providing the activity will not cause derogation of park resources or values, visitor experience

 

How to Apply?

Each special use permit has its own application and procedure for obtaining a permit. Allow two weeks (10 business days) for processing. Requests which involve multiple locations, complex logistics or coordination with other visitor activities will require a minimum of 15 working days to process. Projects which require environmental or cultural resource evaluation must be submitted not less than 30 days before the start of proposed activities. Below you fill find examples of events and activities that require permits, and the cost of associated with managing special park uses.

Contact
If you have any questions regarding long term parking permits or the ORV permit, please feel free to contact Tonya Seely, Lead Recreation Fee Technician, at Harkers Island Visitor Center [phone].