Special Use Permit - Weddings

If you are interested in holding your marriage ceremony at Cape Lookout National Seashore, the following information will be helpful in making your plans. A Special Use Permit is required to hold a wedding anywhere within Cape Lookout National Seashore. Until a Special Use Permit is approved and issued, the requested date and location cannot be guaranteed (permits do not guarantee exclusive use of the area). Follow the guidelines outlined below to ensure that your permit is in place in time for your special occasion.

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete Your Application

Fill out all required sections of the appropriate Special Use Permit application and gather any required supporting documents.

Step 2: Save Your Application

Download or save your completed application for email submission and your records.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee Through Pay.gov

• Open the designated Pay.gov payment form.

• Enter the requested information and select the appropriate permit type.

• Review your information and submit the non-refundable application fee.

Step 4: Save Your Payment Receipt

After payment, Pay.gov will provide confirmation and email receipt. Save a copy as proof of payment.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Email the following to [e-mail]:

• Completed application

• Required supporting documents

• Pay.gov payment receipt

What Happens After You Apply?

Park staff will:

1. Review your application and support documents.

2. Contact you if additional information is needed.

3. Evaluate the proposed activity and coordinate with other park divisions, if necessary.

4. Determine any additional requirements or fees.

5. Approve or deny the request.

Processing Time: Please allow at least 10 business days for processing. Complex requests may take longer. Submit your application well in advance of your planned activity.

Permit Approval and Issuance

If approved, park staff will:

• Contact you regarding any additional requirements or applicable fees.

• Email your permit for review and signature.

• Provide instructions for completing the permit process.

Your permit will outline the approved activities, dates, locations, conditions, restrictions, and any other requirements.

Important: You may not begin your activity until you have received a fully executed Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.

Location

Please indicate the specific location on the application. The Special Use Permit does not allow your ceremony to restrict other park visitors from your chosen location nor does it guarantee you a specific site.

The following areas are restricted for use (are generally not available):

• Cape Lookout Lighthouse
• Cape Lookout Visitor Centers
• All docks
• The main pavilion/shade shelter at the Cape Lookout Light Station Visitor Center

 

Questions or Assistance?

Cape Lookout National Seashore
Phone: [phone]
Email: e-mail us

Permit Fee Authority

Under 54 U.S.C. 103104 and 54 U.S.C. 200101, the National Park Service may recover costs associated with managing special park uses. These fees are intended to cover administrative and operational expenses, not generate revenue beyond actual costs.