Superintendent's Compendium

COMPENDIUM INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this compendium is to produce a concise written document which provides all the special designations, closures, public use limits, permit requirements imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent. The preparation of the compendium is required under Section § 1.7, under Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and shall be made available to the public upon request. The compendium will be reviewed and updated annually to ensure adequate protection of the park resources, provide for public safety and enjoyment, and to meet changes in recreational use patterns.

It is important to utilize this document in conjunction with Title 36, CFR since the compendium only addresses restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent, or regulations which authorize special designations, closures, or other use limits. The use of this compendium, in conjunction with the Memorial brochure, maps, sings and other media will provide a clear understanding of Memorial rules and regulations for both the National Park Service employees and park visitors. Your comments and suggestions are welcome.

Send comments to:
Superintendent
Chamizal National Memorial
800 S. San Marcial Street
El Paso, TX 79905

 

 

In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Chamizal National Memorial. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7. Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5 (c) appear throughout this document.

PART 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS

36 CFR. §1.5 Visiting hours, public use limits, closures and area designations for specific use or activities

(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the Memorial, and the following closures are established for all or portions of the Memorial to all public use or to a certain use of activity.

The Superintendent establishes designated hours to preserve and protect park resources from intentional or unintentional damage and to deter illegal activities within Chamizal National Memorial. The memorial, or portions of it, may be closed without advance public notice in response to emergencies, severe weather, or immediate recovery or repair needs. Public notice of such closures will be provided as soon as practicable.

Visiting Hours

• Memorial grounds are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Overnight or afterhours parking is prohibited at Chamizal National Memorial. Chamizal gates are closed daily to reduce the risk of vandalism to park resources.

• Cultural Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except Federal Holidays. Cultural Center includes the visitor center and information desk, lobby, museum, bookstore, and gallery. Facilities may be open for additional hours related to a special event or special use permit.

• Administrative Office is open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. Administrative areas are closed to public use. Non-employees doing business with the park may enter and remain in these areas when invited and escorted by park staff. Delivery company personnel may enter these areas when making deliveries or pick-ups.

• Entire Memorial is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day(s). Closures 36 CFR § 1.5 governs “Closures and public use limits” in the National Park System. It authorizes the superintendent to close all or part of a park area for reasons such as: During periods of high visitation, special events, staffing shortages, severe weather, natural disasters, or sensitive species activity, the superintendent may temporarily close roads, park features, or portions of the park to protect visitors and natural resources and manage public access.

Closures will be communicated through posted signs, maps, public notices, media announcements, and/or access restrictions using barricades or gates.

Closure Notice: Chamizal Storm-Water Pump Station
Closed to the Public at All Times Under subsection (a)(3), the Superintendent may designate areas for a specific use or activity or impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity. The following restrictions apply to the Chamizal Storm Water Pump Station:

Details of Closure: The Chamizal Storm-Water Pump Station, located in the southeast corner of the park boundary, is always closed to the public. The closure includes the pump station, the area enclosed by its walls and fencing, and the storm-water pipes running through the park into the station.

The restricted area is bounded by:
• North and west: A rock wall approximately eight feet tall.
• East: A chain-link fence and an international port of entry.
• South: A rock wall approximately six feet tall and a gate.

Signs stating “Area Closed – Authorized Personnel Only” will be placed in visible locations on the outside of each wall and next to the south gate. Rationale: The closure protects the public from potential falls of approximately 25–30 feet, particularly during low light conditions at night. It also protects sensitive equipment used to manage city storm water and restricts public access for law enforcement purposes.

Impact: The public may not enter the pump station or its enclosed grounds or access the associated storm-water pipes. Access is limited to storm-water employees conducting official duties, law enforcement personnel, and emergency services personnel. The unmanned-aircraft definition does not apply to this pump station access closure. Including an aircraft restriction would require a separate statement specifying the activity being restricted.

 

Map detail of the Storm-Water Pump Station area closure.

NPS Photo: Chamizal National Memorial

 

Public Closure Notice:

Chamizal National Memorial Theater and Gallery:
Special Use Permits Effective Date: 06/11/2025

Pursuant to the authority vested in the National Park Service (NPS) under Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 1.5-1.7, the Chamizal National Memorial is hereby announcing the suspension of Special Use Permits (SUPs) for events held in the Chamizal Theater.

This decision is made to ensure that the theater aligns with the park's mission to promote cultural and historical programming while preserving its resources.

Details of Closure: This notice applies to all external organizations or individuals seeking Special Use Permits for the Chamizal indoor spaces listed.

Rationale: The theater and gallery will prioritize park-sponsored programs and partnerships that directly advance the mission of Chamizal National Memorial. This includes programs that promote the history of the Chamizal land dispute, the culture of the borderlands, and other National Park Service educational initiatives.

Exceptions: Existing partnerships formalized through cooperative agreements or similar authorized arrangements will continue to be honored, provided they meet park objectives, however not through special use.

Duration: This closure will remain in effect indefinitely until further notice or superseded by additional guidance.

Impact and Opportunities: The Chamizal Theater and Gallery will continue to serve as a vital platform for National Park Service programming, fostering cultural exchange, education, and community engagement. Interested parties may inquire about establishing partnerships or collaborations that align with the park’s mission and values.

The National Park Service appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation in preserving the integrity and mission of Chamizal National Memorial.

PART 2 36 CFR §1.5 Activities that require a permit
The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is usually required.

Failure to get a permit for the activities below could result in violation of 36 CFR § 1.6(g)(1), which prohibits engaging in a permit‑required activity without obtaining a permit

§ 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets (B)(e)1-4- Equipment needed to support research conducted under § 2.5, such as a net for an approved wildlife study.

§ 2.5 Research activities in National Park Service (NPS)- areas generally require a permit under 1.6, and specimen collection research requires a specific “specimen collection permit”

§ 2.12 Audio disturbances- Operation of a public address system or amplification system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to 36 CFR 2.50/2.51.

§ 2.37 Noncommercial soliciting- Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit that has been issued.

§ 2.50 Special events Special Events – sports events, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, ceremony, wedding, organized event and similar activities.

§ 2.51 Demonstrations and designated available park areas Demonstrations – including picketing, speechmaking, marching, vigils, religious services and other public expressions of views for groups of 26 or greater.

Demonstration of first amendment activities must take place in designated first amendment areas.

§ 2.52 Sale of printed matter and the distribution of printed matter and other message bearing items

§ 5.3 Business operations- Engaging in or soliciting business within Chamizal National Memorial is prohibited unless conducted under a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, or specifically authorized by applicable park special regulations.

§ 5.7 Construction of buildings or other facilities Construction – requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States

§ 14.7 Rights-of-Way- Uses of Memorial lands and waters for utility, power, communications, and other infrastructure subject to Part 14 require an NPS right-of-way permit. A separate special use permit for construction must be obtained before beginning associated construction activities.

§ 43 CFR part 5, Subpart A filming, still photography involving sets, props, or Federal law at § See 54 U.S.C. §100905:

In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals.

To avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all 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 National Park Service.

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 are treated the same under the new law.

When a filming, still photography, or audio recording permit is required, the National Park Service will charge location fees and 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 on 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.

Please contact the park for more information about filming, still photography, and audio recording in that park.

For more information on the required location fees, required cost recovery, and additional permitting questions, see the NPS.gov Filming & Still Photography Permits page.

PART 3 - General Regulations 36 CFR

§ 2.1 — Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources Wood Collection — Collecting, possessing, or using wood gathered within Chamizal National Memorial is prohibited. No areas are designated for collecting dead wood for campfire fuel.

— § 2.1(c)(1)–(2) Gathering Prickly Pear Fruit Prickly pear cactus fruit, also known as “tunas,” may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. Collection must not damage the cactus or other vegetation. Selling or commercially using collected fruit is prohibited.
The Superintendent’s written determination must establish that collection will not harm park wildlife, the plant species’ ability to reproduce, or other park resources.

36 CFR § 1.5 — Protection of Trees and Plants
Climbing trees or attaching ropes, wires, or other objects to trees or plants on Memorial grounds is prohibited. This restriction protects vegetation from damage.

36 CFR § 2.2 — Wildlife Protection Transporting Wildlife —§ 2.2(d)
Transporting lawfully taken wildlife through Chamizal National Memorial is prohibited. Viewing Wildlife with Artificial Light —

§ 2.2(e) Using artificial light to view wildlife is prohibited throughout Chamizal National Memorial, except for authorized government activities or scientific studies specifically permitted to do so. Wildlife Protection Federal regulations prohibit feeding, touching, teasing, frightening, or intentionally disturbing wildlife.

36 CFR § 2.11 — Picnicking Picnicking is allowed on Memorial grounds except in areas closed by the Superintendent under 36 CFR § 1.5.

Visitors must follow all established picnicking conditions.
Areas Closed to Picnicking:

• Within and between the buildings and structures of the cultural center complex, including the Spanish Garden, the entire breezeway, and the garden shade canopy.
• On roadway and parking lot surfaces designated for motor vehicle travel. Picnic tables, trash receptacles, and recycling containers are available in various designated picnic areas.

36 CFR § 2.12 — Audio Disturbances Prohibited Activities —Operating motorized equipment or machinery, including generators, motor vehicles, and motorized toys, or audio devices, including radios, televisions, speakers, and musical instruments, is prohibited when the noise:

• Exceeds 60 decibels on the A-weighted scale (dBA), measured at 50 feet; or
• Is unreasonable, even below that level, considering the nature and purpose of the activity, location, time of day or night, the purpose of the Memorial, effects on visitors, and other relevant circumstances.

These restrictions protect visitors from excessive or unreasonable noise and support uses consistent with the Memorial’s purpose. Noise may be unreasonable even below the numerical limit because its effects depend on the location, timing, activity, and surrounding park uses.

The regulation establishes both a measurable noise limit and a standard that accounts for these circumstances

36 CFR § 2.51 — Demonstrations and Designated Available Park Areas Permit Requirements: Demonstrations involving 25 people or fewer may take place without a permit in the designated areas below when all conditions of § 2.51(b)(1) are met.

Participants may carry signs but may not use stages, platforms, or structures. Activities must not unreasonably interfere with permitted demonstrations, special events, or park programs.

Groups may not divide into smaller groups to avoid permit requirements. Groups of 26 or more must obtain a permit before conducting a demonstration.

1. Esplanade South of the Visitor Center -The designated area is immediately south of the Benito Juárez “Child to Man” statue and the two freestanding walls. The northern boundary is separated from the statue by two rows of triangular pavers. The eastern, western, and southern boundaries are separated from the concrete barriers bordering the grass by one row of triangular pavers. These spaces must remain clear for visitor access.

2. South Lawn Near the Comfort Station -The designated area is a 20-foot-by-60-foot section of lawn west of the comfort station, immediately south of the walking trail, between the trail and Delta Street. Access to the comfort station and walking trail must remain clear. Both designated areas are shown on the map in Appendix 1.

§ 2.52 Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter The designated areas are also available for selling or distributing printed matter and freely distributing other message-bearing items covered by § 2.52.

Groups of 25 people or fewer may conduct these activities without a permit when all conditions of § 2.52(b)(1) are met. Groups of 26 or more require a permit.

Area Availability: Activities must remain within the designated boundaries. Use may be limited when an area cannot reasonably accommodate multiple groups or when an activity would unreasonably interfere with permitted events or park programs.

Justification: These locations provide space near primary visitor facilities for demonstrations and distribution activities while preserving access to the visitor center, statue, comfort station, and walking trail. Keeping activities within the designated boundaries maintains pedestrian access and reduces interference with visitor services and park programs.

PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES — CHAMIZAL NATIONAL MEMORIAL

Drones / Uncrewed Aircraft

Prohibited Activity: Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed or remotely piloted aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Chamizal National Memorial is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

Justification: This restriction protects visitors and park resources and prevents conflicts among visitor activities. The Memorial’s relatively small size, shared visitor spaces, and proximity to the international boundary and border crossing limit opportunities to separate aircraft operations from other uses.

Refuse Disposal and Use of Refuse Receptacles Prohibited Activities: Disposing of or leaving refuse anywhere other than designated refuse receptacles.

Releasing balloons, breaking confetti eggs (“cascarones”), spraying “silly string,” or conducting other activities that leave litter on Memorial grounds.

Removing materials deposited in government refuse receptacles or climbing onto or into those receptacles, except during authorized collection, maintenance, or recovery activities.

Justification: These restrictions keep Memorial grounds free of litter, protect park resources and wildlife, and reduce exposure to sharp objects, contaminated waste, falls, and moving lids or collection equipment. They also prevent deposited refuse from being scattered.

Glass Beverage Containers Prohibited Activity: Possessing or using glass beverage bottles or other glass beverage containers on Memorial grounds is prohibited.

Justification: This restriction reduces injuries caused by broken glass and protects visitors and employees using or maintaining lawns, walkways, and gathering areas. Cleanup after breakage would not adequately protect the public because small fragments can remain concealed in turf and soil.

Non-glass beverage containers provide a practical alternative.

Model Rockets Prohibited Activity: Launching or flying model rockets powered by ignitable fuels on Memorial grounds is prohibited.

Justification: This restriction reduces fire hazards and the risk of injury or property damage from ignition, flight, and falling rocket components. The Memorial’s limited space and shared visitor areas do not provide adequate separation between launch and recovery activities and other park uses.

Supporting Authority: 36 CFR § 1.5 provides authority for a categorical restriction on launching or flying model rockets.

Additionally, 36 CFR § 2.38(a)–(b) applies when a particular device or material qualifies as an explosive, explosive material, firework, or firecracker.

Projectile Activities Prohibited Activity: Shooting arrows, throwing javelins or stones, striking golf balls, and throwing, hitting, or launching hard balls or similar projectiles as part of a game or recreational activity on Memorial grounds is prohibited.

Horseshoes and “wachas” are excepted only in the designated areas. Horseshoes and “wachas” may not be played on turf.

These activities are permitted only in the designated non-turf dirt area in the southwest corner of the Memorial grounds, subject to other applicable restrictions.

Justification: This restriction protects visitors, structures, and landscaping from projectile impacts. The Memorial’s shared grounds provide limited separation between these activities and pedestrians or other visitors. Warnings alone would not adequately control objects that travel beyond the intended playing area.

Portable Amusement and Playground Equipment Prohibited Activity: Bringing onto Memorial grounds, setting up, operating, or allowing others to use inflatable bounce houses or jumping balloons, trampolines, portable climbing walls, dunk tanks, swing sets, or similar amusement or playground structures is prohibited.

Justification: This restriction protects visitors from falls, equipment movement, and conflicts with surrounding activities. It also protects turf and irrigation systems from concentrated loads, anchoring, and repeated use.

36 CFR § 2.16 — Horses and Pack Animals Prohibited Activity: The use of horses and pack animals on Memorial grounds is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Superintendent.

Exception: This restriction does not apply to authorized government use of horses for official duties, including public safety operations such as crowd control.

Justification: This restriction protects public health and safety.

36 CFR § 2.21 —Smoking Prohibited Activity
Smoking is prohibited:
• At all times inside Memorial buildings and government-owned or leased vehicles.
• During scheduled events when posted, throughout the amphitheater, also known as the “bowl.” This area includes all grounds, turf, and facilities inside the inner curb of the circular main access roadway, including the entire outdoor stage at the southern end.

Justification: These restrictions protect park resources and structures, reduce fire risk, limit staff and visitor exposure to secondhand smoke, and prevent conflicts among visitor activities.

Supporting Authority: 36 CFR § 2.21(a) authorizes the Superintendent to close areas, buildings, structures, or facilities to smoking to protect park resources, reduce fire risk, or prevent conflicts among visitor activities. Smoking in designated closed areas is prohibited.

36 CFR § 2.35 — Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances Prohibited Activity Consuming alcoholic beverages or possessing open containers of alcohol is prohibited inside all Memorial buildings, including the visitor center, and within the Spanish Garden.

This includes containers that have been opened, have a broken seal, or have had some contents removed. Containers stored in compliance with 36 CFR § 4.14 are excepted.

Justification: This restriction addresses the Memorial’s history of heavy alcohol consumption and reduces the risk of related disorderly conduct and vandalism. It protects visitors, staff, exhibits, and facilities inside Memorial buildings and the Spanish Garden.

PART 4 — VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY 36 CFR § 4.10

Travel on Park Roads and Designated Routes Motor Vehicle Use: Motor vehicles may operate only on park roads and in parking areas open to their use. At the Memorial, these include the paved main access roadway and designated public parking areas.

Use of the utility access road behind the cultural center is subject to posted access restrictions. Motor vehicles may not be driven on lawns, sidewalks, or other pedestrian areas.

36 CFR § 4.32 — Powered Micromobility Devices Recreational Use: Operating powered micromobility devices, including Segways and electric scooters, is prohibited except in locations designated for their use by the Superintendent.

Disability-related use is addressed separately below. Mobility Assistance for Visitors with Disabilities: Manual and powered devices that meet the definition of a wheelchair are allowed wherever pedestrian travel is permitted. Segways and other powered devices used by visitors with mobility disabilities are subject to applicable accessibility requirements and legitimate safety restrictions.

Memorial Operating Conditions for Segways and Similar Mobility Devices:

• Segway operators younger than 16 must be supervised by an adult.
• Devices must be operated safely and must not endanger the operator or other visitors.
• Speed on sidewalks, trails, and other pedestrian surfaces must not exceed 6 mph. Operators must travel more slowly when necessary for safety.
• In the amphitheater’s lawn seating area during special events, operators must adjust their speed and movement to surrounding conditions and pedestrian traffic.

Justification: These restrictions separate vehicle traffic from pedestrian activities, protect lawns and other park resources, and reduce the risk of collisions while providing mobility access for visitors with disabilities.

36 CFR § 4.12 — Traffic Control Devices and § 4.13 — Obstructing Traffic

Requirements: Drivers must follow posted directions of travel and obey all traffic signs and control devices unless otherwise directed by the Superintendent. Stopping or parking on park roads is prohibited unless authorized by the Superintendent or necessary because of an accident or circumstances beyond the driver’s control.

Driving so slowly that it interferes with the normal flow of traffic is also prohibited. Vehicles must not block sidewalks, accessibility ramps, access to fire hydrants, or designated loading and unloading zones. Drivers must follow posted restrictions for these locations.

Justification: These requirements maintain traffic flow, keep pedestrian and accessible routes clear, and preserve access for emergency vehicles and loading and unloading activities.

36 CFR § 4.21 — Speed Limits Maximum Posted Speed Limits:

• 15 mph: Main access road and paved main parking areas.
• 10 mph: Locations temporarily posted for special events or other circumstances.
• 5 mph: Gravel secondary parking area in the southwest corner of the Memorial.

Drivers must obey posted speed limits.

Justification: These speed limits reduce the risk of collisions involving pedestrians and vehicles and help protect park property. Lower limits provide additional time for drivers to respond to pedestrians, parking movements, and event traffic.

36 CFR § 4.30 — Bicycles Bicycle Use: Bicycles are allowed on park roads and in parking areas open to public motor vehicle use, and on trails specifically authorized for bicycles.

Riders must obey posted traffic signs, speed limits, and applicable federal and state traffic laws.

Electric Bicycles: An electric bicycle, or e-bike, has two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, and an electric motor rated at no more than 750 watts.

It must meet the Class 1, 2, or 3 requirements in 36 CFR § 1.4.

E-bikes are allowed in Memorial locations designated by the Superintendent and are prohibited outside those locations.

Except where public motor vehicle use is allowed, using the motor alone for an extended period without pedaling is prohibited.

Operating Requirements:

• Obey traffic controls and speed limits.
• Ride single file unless riding side by side is authorized by the Superintendent.
• Use the required front and rear lights or reflectors between sunset and sunrise, during low visibility, and in tunnels.
• Do not ride while drinking alcohol or holding an open alcoholic beverage container.
• Follow applicable state bicycle laws unless federal regulations provide otherwise.

E-bike operators are subject to §§ 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(3)–(5).

Justification: These requirements reduce collisions and conflicts among cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists while protecting park resources.

COMPENDIUM APPENDIX 1
Includes Record of Determination, First Amendment Area Map, and First Amendment Area Map

 

COMPENDIUM APPENIX 1

 

First Amendment assembly area

 

First Amendment assembly area