Permits & Reservations

Permit Information

Within public lands, certain types of activities may require a special permit. These activities can include many types of organized gatherings, distribution of printed materials (and other first amendment activities, or public expressions of opinion), and other types of activities that are controlled, or possibly prohibited without proper permits. We encourage the public to take advantage of these opportunities, but in a safe manner.

Permitting allows the park to meet the needs of the public in an organized fashion, allowing for everyone to benefit from these wonderful freedoms available to us in the safest way possible.

Common activities at First State requiring a permit:

• First Amendment Activities
• Competitive Events (races, competitions, etc.)
• Weddings
• Filming

While the park has much to offer, First State is only responsible for administering permits for the Brandywine Valley unit. If you are interested in obtaining a permit for the other 5 units of the park, you will need to reach out to that individual site.

• Fort Christina: [phone]
• Old Swedes Historic Site: [phone]
• New Castle Court House Museum: [phone]
• The Dover Green: [phone]
• John Dickinson Plantation: [phone]

Please review the various types of permits the National Park Service administers below. Then, follow the link for more information on the type of permit that best fits your needs. If you are unsure if your activity or event requires a permit you can also e-mail the park with a brief description and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.