How to Apply to do Business in the Park

Airboat tours are a unique way to experience the park.

NPS Photo

Before You Begin

Prior approval from the Superintendent, in the form of a Commercial Use Authorization, is required before any business operations can begin in the park. All activities must be in compliance with the general regulations for Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park.

Commercial Use Authorizations are coordinated through the Superintendent's Office at Everglades National Park, 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, Florida 33034-6733.

Read the information on this page carefully before filling out and returning the application.

 

Commercial Use Authorization Program Changes for 2025

Changes include new application system, and reporting. Read on for more information.

• To better facilitate the integration of the new National CUA Portal for the 2025 season all new commercial use authorizations (CUAs) will now be for a one-year term.
• The annual fee for all CUAs is $850.
• The new CUA application system
• New applications will be accepted starting October 15, 2024. Due to the high volume of applications, you are encouraged to submit your 2025 application package prior to December 31, 2024.

Reporting

• Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve will require quarterly submission of monthly visitation reports. Quarters are identified as:
  • 1st Quarter: Jan-Mar
  • 2nd Quarter: Apr-Jun
  • 3rd Quarter: Jul-Sept
  • 4th Quarter: Oct-Dec
• Click Here https://forms.office.com/g/X5iweLFyHk to submit your Monthly Visitor Reports.
• Any CUA holder who does not submit required annual and quarterly reports in a timely manner will not be eligible to apply or receive a CUA for the following CUA season.

 

Training for Commercial Operators

• November 20, 2024, Online Teams Live Call: All SOFL CUA applicants/holders Join conversation (microsoft.com)
• December 16, 2024, Training for Water/Land Based Tours Ernest Coe Visitor Center (EVER) https://forms.office.com/g/EZBxj5V9BW

 

Things to Know

• We can take up to 30 days to process applications. 
• An entrance fee update was posted December 6, 2018.
• Payments will only be accepted via the link provided through the Online CUA application System.
• We won't begin processing your applications until you send it to us completely filled out and submit your payment for processing to pay.gov.
  • Supporting documentation should be mailed or emailed; see application for details.
• Check out the FAQs if you have questions

 

Ready To Apply?

If you've read the information on this site and believe you're ready to apply, click the button below to access the application.

I'm Ready To Apply