The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
2. Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This Compendium
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 100101 et.seq. (Organic Act of 1916, as amended) to “…regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks…which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment for future generations” (54 U.S.C. Section 100101). In addition, the NPS Organic Act allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the use and management of the parks, monuments, and reservations under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service” (54 U.S.C. Section 100751).
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970 (54 U.S.C. Sections 100101), Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.
In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
54 U.S.C. Section 100501 defines the National Park System as”…any areas of land and water now or hereafter administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, than that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
3. Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and Requirements
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
4. Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
Is there use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
5. Applicability of the Compendium
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
6. Enforcement of Compendium Requirements
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United State Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
7. Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Requirements
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding three months (36CFR1.3(b) ref 5USC901), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.
8. Comments on the Compendium
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time.
9. Effective Date of the Superintendent Compendium
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document, and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.
10. Additional Information
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
11. Availability
Copies of the Compendium are available at 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg PA 17325. It may also be found at https://www.nps.gov/gett/learn/management/lawsandpolicies.htm.
B. Superintendent's Compendium
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 54 United States Code, Section 100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site. 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 in this document identified by italicized print.
36 CFR §1.5 – Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations for Specific Use or Activities
(a)(1) The following visiting hours, public use limits, and closures are established:
Gettysburg NMP Visiting Hours:
Museum and Visitor Center:
Please check the Museum and Visitor Center webpage at www.gettysburgfoundation.org for up-to-date information on the building's hours.
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex – Open daily Sunrise to Sunset. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
The Gettysburg NMP library, curatorial and archives facilities are available to researchers by appointment only. Please contact the appropriate office via email:
All Gettysburg NMP park lands and roadways are open to public access daily from Sunrise to Sunset. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
The following park roadways are open to local vehicle commuter-only traffic, after established park closure hours. Drive through-only, no stopping, standing or parking along avenues or pull offs:
Buford Avenue
Doubleday Avenue
Granite Schoolhouse Road
Howard Avenue
Hunt Avenue
Millerstown Road
Reynolds Avenue
Wadsworth Avenue
West Confederate Avenue
Wheatfield Road
Seminary Avenue
The Slyder Farm trail is closed to horses Monday – Friday during the months of April, May, and October due to its use for student education programs.
Eisenhower NHS Visiting Hours:
Eisenhower NHS is open to the public from Sunrise to Sunset. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
Please refer to the park’s website for current information on how to access the site: www.nps.gov/eise.
The site is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The Eisenhower NHS library, curatorial and archives facilities are available to researchers by appointment only. Please contact the appropriate office via email:
Curatorial: e-mail us
Library: e-mail us
Public Use Limits:
The general public is prohibited from possessing and/or consuming food in the Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex.
Closures:
Gettysburg NMP, including all lands and roadways, except as designated above, are closed to public access Sunset to Sunrise, daily. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
Exceptions:
NPS and NPS-sponsored or co-sponsored public meetings, programs, and special events, scheduled to occur in the park after designated closure hours are exempt.
After designated closure hours, only Park Living History Volunteers (NPS Permit authorized) are authorized access to their identified campsites, and must remain in their identified campsites.
Occupants of the Bushman and Slyder Houses are authorized access to their identified leased boundaries during designated closure hours.
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex is closed to public access from Sunset to Sunrise daily. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
Eisenhower NHS is closed to the public access from Sunset to Sunrise. Sunrise is defined as ½ hour before the sunrise time listed on www.sunrise-sunset.org/us/gettysburg-pa ; sunset is defined as ½ hour after the sunset time listed on the same website.
All park roads are closed to commercial vehicle traffic unless connected with the operations of the park, with the following exceptions:
Per Memorandum to Files dated February 12, 1992, the park and Cumberland Township authorities resolved to restrict commercial truck traffic on Wheatfield Road to vehicles weighing less than 13 tons (26,000 pounds). Commercial vehicles weighing less than 13 tons are permitted on Wheatfield Road.
Commercial vehicles are permitted on Millerstown Road.
All service/unpaved roads are closed to travel by all buses and commercial vehicles, including but not limited to:
Slyder Farm Lane
Bushman Farm Lane
H. Spangler Farm Lane
Rose Farm Lane
F. Althoff Farm Lane
G. Weikert Farm Lane
McClean Farm Lane
Wills Winebrenner Farm Lane
Cobean/Butterfield Farm Lane
Smith Track Farm Lane
Pitzer Farm Lane (EISE)
Redding Farm Lane (EISE)
Unpaved section of Eisenhower Farm Lane (EISE)
The following paved park roads are closed to travel by all buses and commercial vehicles:
Coster Avenue
Berdan Avenue
Latimer Avenue (Benner's Hill)
Wright Avenue
Howe Avenue
South Sickles Avenue between Warren Avenue and Ayres Avenue
Granite Schoolhouse Lane
Robinson Avenue
Williams Avenue
E. Confederate Avenue
The following paved park roads are closed to travel by all commercial vehicles with the exception of tour buses following the park tour route:
S. Reynolds Avenue
N. Reynolds Avenue
W. Howard Avenue
E. Howard Avenue
W. Confederate Avenue
US Cavalry Avenue
Seminary Ridge
Gregg Avenue
Confederate Cavalry Avenue
The following service roads are closed to public vehicular use and travel:
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex roads
Slyder Farm Lane
Spangler Farm Lane
Bushman Farm Lane
McClean Farm Lane
Williams Quarry access road
Employee residences located in Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS are closed to public access.
Signed administrative and maintenance areas are closed to public access.
Public buildings at Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
David Wills House Access – No active instruction, guided tours, or organized talks may take place within the David Wills House Museum, except for Park programming.
Justification: The David Wills House Museum is a small, enclosed space. Any type of formal presentation will impact and may interfere with visitors’ experiences in the exhibit spaces.
Eisenhower Home – No active instruction, guided tours, or organized talks may take place within the Eisenhower Home, except for Park programming.
Justification: The Eisenhower Home is a small, enclosed space. Any type of formal presentation will impact and may interfere with visitors’ experiences in the exhibit spaces.
The Superintendent may close any portion of the park and/or roadways, to include trails, to public access during periods of ice, snow, or any other hazardous condition. Roadways may be closed with gates, barricades or other traffic control devices. Driving or riding around or past these devices is prohibited.
The following areas are closed to picnicking:
Gettysburg National Military Park, except in specifically designated picnic areas
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex
The following areas are closed to bicycles/e-bicycles:
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex
Gettysburg NMP – all areas except park roadways, parking lots, and the Taneytown Road trail system
The following areas are closed to public access:
Crop fields except on designated trails or mowed paths.
Pasture fields when occupied by livestock.
Justification: These areas are under agricultural leases and pedestrian traffic places visitors at risk, can stress cattle and horses as well as interfere with farmers’ operations, including damage to crops.
Launching, recovering or operating any vessel on the following bodies of water is prohibited:
Retention pond on the Emanuel Harmon
Farm property Ponds along Plum Run
Justification: These measures are necessary to promote the protection of the park resources and values, visitor safety, and the visitor experience.
Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Justification: The use of unmanned aircraft is considered to be an impact on the historic landscape of the Gettysburg Battlefield and the Eisenhower home site. These devices would also provide unreasonable noise and impact the visitor experience which is so important at both sites.
The following areas are temporarily closed to the public as of March 11, 2024, until further notice: Closure Order 24-002 Benner Farmhouse, barn, and adjacencies.
Closure Order #24-002
Closures, restrictions, and public use limits: Under the authority provided to the Superintendent in 36 CFR 1.5 and 2.50 and 2.51, the following park areas and facilities are closed, effective March 11, 2024, until further notice:
Benner Farmhouse, barn, and adjacencies.
Vehicle access lane from Old Harrisburg Road to the Benner Farmhouse and barn and parking area in front of the Benner barn.
Notice: This administrative order applies to all individuals subject to the regulatory authority of the National Park Service (NPS) within the boundaries of Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site, including park visitors, government employees, concession employees, park residents and stakeholders.
Finding: The NPS issues this administrative order for the purposes of maintaining public health and safety and protecting park resources.
During the closure period, the Benner Farmhouse will be rehabilitated. This work prohibits the use of the existing farm lane and barn parking area and the area around the Benner Farmhouse and barn during construction. There are no other access points to the Benner Farmhouse that wouldn’t result in safety concerns and/or resource damage.
The effectiveness of this order will be assessed on an ongoing basis and will be modified or removed when conditions warrant.
The following areas are temporarily closed to the public as of May 3, 2023, until further notice: Closure Order 23-002 Rose Farmstead area.
Closure Order #23-002
Closures, restrictions, and public use limits: Under the authority provided to the Superintendent in 36 CFR 1.5 and 2.50 and 2.51, the follow park areas and facilities are closed as of May 3, 2023:
Rose farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, summer kitchen, yard, and adjacencies
Vehicle access lane from Emmitsburg Road to the Rose Farmhouse.
Notice: This administrative order applies to all individuals subject to the regulatory authority of the National Park Service (NPS) within the boundaries of Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site, including park visitors, government employees, concession employees, park residents and stakeholders.
Finding: The NPS issues this administrative order for the purposes of maintaining public health and safety and protecting park resources.
During the closure period, the Rose Farmhouse will be rehabilitated. This work prohibits the use of the existing farm lane and area around the Rose Farmhouse during construction. There are no other access points to the Rose Farmhouse that wouldn’t result in safety concerns and/or resource damage.
Access by Agricultural Permit Holder remains authorized.
of this order will be assessed on an ongoing basis and will be modified or removed conditions warrant. Approval: Superintendent Steve Sims Date: 05/03/2023
(a)(2) The following restrictions and/or conditions are in effect for the specific uses or activities noted:
Passenger Carrying Buses:
Engines must be shut down when parked for a period of more than 5 minutes EXCEPT: If outside temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher and passengers have elected to remain on board during an extended stop, the bus and air conditioning may be left running for the safety and well-being of the driver and passengers who remain onboard. If all passengers have departed the bus during an extended stop in high heat, drivers may start their buses 5 mins prior to the boarding process to begin cooling the vehicle ahead of the passengers return.
Recreational and Sporting Activities:
Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS are closed to recreational and sporting activities including, but not limited to the following: racing, skating (including roller-skating and in-line skating), skateboarding (including longboards), motorized scooters, neighborhood electric vehicles, golf carts, pocket motorcycles, hoverboards, electric unicycles or skateboards, caster boards, orbit wheel skates, technical rock climbing, bouldering, ball playing, kite flying, remote control vehicles, model aircraft flying, model rocket launching, throwing objects through the air (Frisbees, footballs, baseballs, etc.), yoga and sunbathing. Prohibited activities do not include walking, hiking, strolling, jogging, bicycling, electric bicycling, xc-skiing or horseback riding. Specific prohibitions on certain activities may be addressed in other regulations. Organized activities are addressed in Section 1.6 – Activities that require a permit.
All recreational activities, including bicycling and jogging are prohibited in the Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex.
Non-competitive, recreational cycling events with over 500 participants are permitted only on weekdays between April and October. Year-round these events are limited to the following park-owned roads: Wheatfield Road and Millerstown Road (which connect to non-park roads through the park including Emmitsburg Road, Taneytown Road and Pumping Station Road).
Organized race events are prohibited on park-owned roadways including the commemorative system of avenues within the park.
Non-competitive, recreational foot events with over 500 participants are permitted only on weekdays between April and October. Events are prohibited on avenues through high visitation areas between April and October including West Confederate Avenue, North Confederate Avenue, South Confederate Avenue, Sykes Avenue, Crawford Avenue, South Sickles Avenue, Warren Avenue, and Hancock Avenue.
Non-competitive, recreational events (walking/biking/etc.) with between 100 and 500 participants are prohibited on avenues through high visitation areas between April and October including West Confederate Avenue, North Confederate Avenue, South Confederate Avenue, Sykes Avenue, Crawford Avenue, South Sickles Avenue, Warren Avenue, and Hancock Avenue.
Non-competitive, recreational events (walking/biking/etc.) with less than 100 participants will be considered on a case by case basis. Event-specific conditions (e.g. authorized roadways) will be developed as appropriate with the exception that any such events may only use Sykes Avenue between November 1 and March 31..
Non-competitive, recreational events are prohibited on holiday and other special park event weekends between April and October: Easter weekend, Memorial Day weekend, 4th of July Weekend (including Battle Anniversary, July 1-3), Labor Day Weekend, and Columbus Day Weekend. Special recreational events are also prohibited on Dedication Day (Nov. 19) and Remembrance Day weekends in November.
Justification: These measures are necessary to promote the protection of park resources and values, visitor safety, and the visitor experience during periods of high visitation and on park avenues and roadways that experience heavy congestion during periods of high visitation. This determination will not interfere with the ability of traditional park visitors to hike, run or bike on park avenues outside of organized, non-competitive recreational events.
Hiring of Licensed Battlefield Guides:
The NPS has the responsibility to administer the licensed guide program at Gettysburg National Military Park in accordance with 36 CFR Part 25. Part 25.2 states “No person shall be permitted to offer his services or to act as a guide unless licensed for that purpose by the superintendent.” The term offering services is understood to mean in a commercial context. Therefore, the requirement to hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide for a historical tour of the battlefield at Gettysburg National Military Park is applicable only when such services are offered for a fee or in association with another commercial activity. All tours which are not commercial in nature, where park visitors are not paying either for participation in a tour or paying a tour guide (i.e. military staff rides, school groups, etc.) do not require the hiring of a Licensed Battlefield Guide.
Geo-Caching:
Geo-Caching and Letter Boxing are prohibited throughout Gettysburg NMP, Eisenhower NHS and Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex except under the terms of a Special Use Permit. Virtual geo-caching is authorized. See also 36 CFR § 2.22.
Collection of Mushrooms:
Edible mushrooms may be collected for personal use only, in the amount of 1 peck per person per day.
Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMD):
Recreational Use – EPAMD’s are permitted only on park roadways within Gettysburg NMP with the following restrictions:
Lamps and reflectors are required when operating between sunset and sunrise.
As required by Pennsylvania State law, pedalcycle helmets are required for persons under 12 years of age.
E-bikes
The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 hp).
E-bikes are allowed in Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
E-bikes does not include electric scooters, Razors, hoverboards, electric unicycles and skateboards, caster boards, orbit wheel skates, or any other type of scooter, skate, or skateboard.
CCTV Policy Statement
In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS use Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.
The parks’ use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionally protected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use – which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards – will be to help ensure safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of terrorist attack and crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals. (RM-9, 26.1)
This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities (RM-9, 26.3.7), revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record/monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.). This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer-worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers.
(RM-9, 26.1).
Operation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of recorded images and use of recorded images will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy and applicable laws and regulations. (RM-9, 26.1-26.4) No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views. (RM-9, 26.4.2)
Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:
§1.6(a) Scientific Research
Contact Park Research and Reporting Coordinator, 717-338-4483 for permit.
§2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net:
Firearms may be carried or possessed in accordance with applicable local, state and federal law.
Other weapons as defined under 36 CFR 1.4 will require a permit. Contact the Chief Ranger’s Office for permit.
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
Contact Park Research and Reporting Coordinator, 717-338-4483 for permit.
§2.12 Audio Disturbances:
(a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
(a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.16 Horses and Pack Animals:
(c) The use of horses or pack animals on a park road, being used on a horse- or animal-drawn vehicle
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.17 Aircraft and Air Delivery
(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means.
(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.22 Property
(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.35 Alcoholic beverages and Controlled Substances:
(a)(3)(i) Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.38 Explosives:
(a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
(b) Use or possess fireworks
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
Weddings will only be permitted at the Park Amphitheater in Pitzer Woods
Organized, non-competitive recreational events – see Recreational and Sporting Activities above
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views.
Groups over of 25 people and groups using stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems need to apply for a permit.
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.52(c) Sale or distribution of printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.60(b) Livestock use
Contact Resource Planning Office for permit
§2.61(a) Residing on federal lands
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§2.62 Memorialization:
(a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from NPS Director)
(b) Scattering ashes from human cremation in designated locations only
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight and size limits
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§5.1 Advertisements - (Display, posting or distribution.)
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (Requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§5.5 Commercial Photography/Filming:
Commercial filming of motion pictures or television involving the use of professional casts, settings or crews, other than bona fide newsreel or news television
If a filming project is determined to be non-commercial, a permit will be required if necessary to manage the activity, protect park resources and values, minimize conflict between user groups, or ensure public safety. In most cases a permit is not necessary for casual filming for personal enjoyment.
Most still photography will not require a permit. Still photography activities require a permit only if:
The still photography activity uses models, set or props.
The still photography activity takes place in an area where or when members of the public are not allowed.
The agency would incur costs for providing on-site management and oversight to protect agency resources and minimize visitor use conflicts
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit.
§5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads (The superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available)
Contact Chief Ranger’s Office for permit
§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, paths, structures, etc.
Not permitted
Part 12 National Cemeteries
12.5(b) Burial in the NationalCemetery
Gettysburg National Cemetery is closed to burials. Only those with spaces already reserved may be buried there.
12.6(b) Disinterment of Remains from NationalCemetery
Contact Park Maintenance Office for permit
36 CFR §2.1 - Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resouces
(a)(5) The following conditions are in effect for walking, climbing, entering, ascending or traversing the listed archeological or cultural resource, monuments or statues:
The following monuments and cultural resources are open to the public (persons only, no pets, service animals excepted) for walking on, entering, ascending and descending or traversing via walkways and stairs during the hours the park is open:
44th New York Infantry Monument
Culp’s Hill Tower
Friend to Friend Memorial
Longstreet Tower
Oak Ridge Tower
Peace Light Memorial
Pennsylvania Monument
New York Auxiliary Monument
United States Regulars Monument
(a)(6) Conducting rubbings of monuments or gravestones may injure or deface those cultural resources and is therefore prohibited.
(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, and berries may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption within Gettysburg NMP in the following quantities:
Acorns 1 peck / person / day
Apples 1 bushel / person / day
Blackberries 1 peck / person / day
Blueberries 1 peck / person / day
Cherries 1 peck / person / day
Crabapples 1 peck / person / day
Hickory nuts 1 peck / person / day
Peaches 1 peck / person / day
Raspberries 1 peck / person / day
Strawberries 1 peck / person / day
Walnuts 1 peck / person / day
Wineberries 1 peck / person / day
1 peck = 537.61 cubic inches 1 bushel = 2,150.42 cubic inches For quantity limits on mushrooms, please see section 1.5
36 CFR §2.2 - WildlifeProtection
(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
Use of an artificial light for the purposes of viewing wildlife is prohibited in all areas of Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS. This prohibition does not apply to authroized sceintific or administrative activities.
36 CFR §2.4 – Weapons, Traps or Nets
(a)(1)(i) & (ii) Visitors may possess and carry firearms within Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.
Federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances. The federal facilities for Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site are as follows:
Gettysburg:
Hoffman House – 380 Taneytown Road (Resource Planning Office)
National Cemetery Lodge – 791 Baltimore Pike
Park Maintenance Facility – 405 Taneytown Road (Maintenance Office)
Wright House - 160 Taneytown Road (Protection Office)
David Wills House Museum - 8 Lincoln Square
Eisenhower:
Eisenhower Home – 200 Millerstown Road
Eisenhower Farm 1 Barn – 200 Millerstown Road
Eisenhower Headquarters Building (Farm 2) – 250 Eisenhower Farm Lane
Farm 2 Show Barn – 250 Eisenhower Farm Lane
Reception Center – 200 Millerstown Road
Other weapons, traps and nets as defined under 36 CFR 1.4 will require a permit.
36 CFR §2.10 – Camping and Food Storage
(a) A permit system has been established for certain camping activities, and conditions for camping and camping activities are in effect as noted:
McMillan Woods Youth Group Campground is currently closed to all use.
36 CFR §2.11 – Picnicking
Certain areas have been closed to picnicking and are listed in 36 CFR § 1.5(a)(1) “Closures” of this document. They include:
Gettysburg National Military Park, except for designated picnic areas
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex
Conditions for Picnicking:
Designated area for Gettysburg National Military Park picnicking is the South End Picnic Area located along South Confederate Avenue.
36 CFR 2.13 - Fires
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Designated Areas:
Campfires are permitted on in connection with park sponsored living history programs, interpretive programs, and special events.
Only camp stoves (propane, butane) may be utilized in the designated picnic areas. No coal, or charcoal grills are permitted.
36 CFR §2.15 – Pets
(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets (This section does not apply to service animals):
Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex
Within or on the 44th NY Monument, Culp’s HillTower, LongstreetTower, Oak RidgeTower, Peace Light Memorial, and Pennsylvania Monument
Within all public offices and structuresin Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS.
Pet owners cannot allow any pet to enter near or upon any monument, marker, cultural or archeological structure/object within Gettysburg NMP. Pet owners will not allow their pets to relieve themselves on any monument, marker, cultural or archeological structure/object within Gettysburg NMP or Eisenhower NHS.
(a)(3) Pets may be left unattended and tied to an object in the following areas, under the conditions noted:
In picnic areas, pets may be tied to picnic tables or tethered in the area while the owner/handler is present; however, pets may not be left unattended.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
All pet excrement must be immediately collected and disposed of in refuse containers by the pet owner.
(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
Park residents may keep pets provided the resident can provide proof of valid registration and vaccinations in accordance with state and local regulations.
36 CFR §2.16 – Horses and Pack Animals
(b) The use of horses or pack animals is allowed on the following trails, routes or areas:
Horseback riding is permitted on the established trails marked by symbolic Horse Trail signs.
The Slyder Farm trail is closed to horses Monday – Friday during the months of April, May, and October due to its use for student education programs.
(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
The operation of horse- or other animal-drawn vehicles on park roadways is only allowed under the terms and conditions of a Special Use Permit.
The designated parking area for horse trailers is the western most portion of the parking area at the McMillan Woods Campground. The area is signed.
Operators of horse- or animal-drawn vehicles will conform to the Pennsylvania motor vehicle code, Title 75 sections 3103 (Traffic Regulation applicable), Section 4303(e) (Lighting Requirements) and section 4529 (Slow Moving Vehicle emblem required). All such vehicles shall utilize manure catchers as part of the tack.
All wheeled conveyances will be operated on the paved road only and not on the horse trail.
Horse trail riding will not be allowed after sunset.
Horses may only be secured by tying them to a hitching rack, or a horse trailer. Horses must be attended at all times to prevent third party injuries.
Horses and pack animals shall not be watered at the water spigot in the McMillan Woods Campground. Water may be carried in pails to the animals.
The horse trailer parking area, the road into the campground, and roadways in McMillan Woods must be kept free of manure. All horse or pack animal excrement in this area must be collected and carried out by the animal’s owner or rider. Horses are not permitted on any area outside that designated for horse trailer parking and the roadway to the designated horse trail.
36 CFR §2.18 – Snowmobiles
(c) The use of snowmobiles is prohibited in Gettysburg NMP, Gettysburg National Cemetery & Annex and Eisenhower NHS.
36 CFR §2.19 – Winter Activities
(a) The following park roads and/or parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic may be used for skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, inner tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter activities under the conditions noted:
When roads are closed, the following winter activities are permitted on those roadways: sledding, inner tubing, tobogganing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing (towing by motor vehicle is prohibited).
Trails and unpaved edges of roadways are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
36 CFR §2.20 – Skating, Skateboards and Similar Devices
The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed only in the following areas:
Only those areas within the curtilage of a park residence are designated for the use of roller skates, skateboards, or similar devices by park residents and their guests.
36 CFR §2.21 – Smoking
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
Smoking in all park buildings is prohibited.
36 CFR §2.22 – Property
(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours is prohibited.
Geo-caching and Letter-Boxing are prohibited in Gettysburg NMP, Gettysburg National Cemetery & Annex and Eisenhower NHS except under the terms of a Special Use Permit.
Virtual geo-caching is authorized. To establish a virtual geo-cache, contact Chief Ranger's Office for additional information.
36 CFR §2.35 – Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
All areas of Gettysburg NMP, Gettysburg National Cemetery and Eisenhower NHS are closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or the possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage, with the following exceptions:
Park Residences
Park buildings under lease or rental agreements
By permit only (permits issued by the Chief Ranger’s Office)
Justification: The superintendent has determined that the possession and consumption of alcohol within the park would be inappropriate considering its other uses and the purpose for which it is maintained and was established.
36 CFR §2.51 – Demonstrations and Designated Available Park Areas
(a) Demonstrations
Individuals engaged in living history are required to be signed up as NPS volunteers and adhere to established park living history requirements. Living history is considered to be a performing art or demonstration per NPS policy. Living history demonstrations use period reproduction clothing and objects to present impressions of the people, events, and practices of the past and provide interpretive and educational impressions in as authentic manner as possible (NPS DO #6: Interpretation and Education). Please contact living history coordinator Matt Atkinson (matt_atkinson@nps.gov) if you wish to engage in living history at the park.
Justification: Per Director's Order #6: Interpretation and Education parks must provide cultural demonstrations with training and direction in order to facilitate a successful interaction with the public. Per the guidelines for Gettysburg National Military Park, all living history demonstrations (individual, group, civilian, military, etc.) must have themes, goals, and objectives defined and approved by the park. Individuals and groups must be signed up as park volunteers and adhere to established standards and policies. Living history demonstrations will be permitted only in approved locations.
(c) (2) Designated available park areas
In Gettysburg National Military Park, the two areas designated for demonstrations are at the orchard area west of Taneytown Road, north of Meade's Headquarters, and south of the National Cemetery Parking Lot (excluding the orchard itself) and the grassy area to the west of the Eternal Peace Light Memorial (See map at the end of this document).
Eisenhower National Historic Site, the area designated for these demonstrations is in the field east of the Eisenhower Home, south and west of the paved road. If that primary area is occupied by a permitted event, then the alternate is in the field north of the Quonset Hut as shown on the attached map. The alternate area may be used if the primary are is occupied by a permitted event (See map at the end of this document).
See Appendix A for maps of First Amendment demonstration areas.
36 CFR §4.11 – Vehicle Load, Weight and Size Limits
(a) The following load, weight and size limits, which are more restrictive than State law, apply to the roads indicated under the terms and conditions, and/or under permit as noted:
Vehicle load, weight and size limits are addressed in sections 4921 through 4925 of The Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, Title 75
No vehicles exceeding eight (8) feet in width are permitted to be operated on park avenues or roadways without a permit and escort.
Per Memorandum to Files dated February 12, 1992, the park and Cumberland Township authorities resolved to restrict commercial truck traffic on Wheatfield Road To vehicles weighing less than 13 tons (26,000 pounds).
No recreational vehicles (RVs), vehicles with trailers or buses are allowed at Eisenhower NHS. Buses that are approved by the Park Service are permitted.
The following park roads have trailer and vehicle length restrictions:
South Sickles Ave between Warren Avenue and Ayres Avenue ("Devil's Den") - no vehicles over 35 feet at any time.
Colgrove Ave- no total vehicle length over 45 feet (including trailers) at any time.
Wright Avenue - no total vehicle length over 35 feet (including trailers) at any time.
Howe Avenue - no total vehivle length over 35 feet (including trailers) at any time.
Eisenhower National Historic Site- no trailers except for park approved exceptions.
Eisenhower Drive vehicle/bus limit of 40 feet.
Gravel section of Eisenhower Farm Lane no vehicles over 15 feet at any time except for park approved exceptions.
36 CFR §4.13 – Obstructing Traffic
The following are prohibited:
Operating a vehicle so slowly as to interfere with the normal flow of traffic.
All vehicles on Sykes Ave must be able to travel at 25 mph.
Stopping or standing of vehicles to load or unload passengers in such a way that obstructs the normal flow of traffic.
36 CFR §4.21 – Speed Limits
(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
The speed limit on all park roads and avenues is 25 miles per hour.
The speed limit within all parking lots is 15 miles per hour.
The speed limit on all unpaved roads is 5 miles per hour.
The speed limits on Pennsylvania roadways within the park boundaries are determined and posted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
These speed limits differ from the speed limits established by regulation in 36 CFR § 4.21(a) based on the determination that the established speed limits were unreasonable, unsafe and inconsistent with the purposes for which a park area was established.
36 CFR §4.30 – Bicycles
(a) The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads and parking lots.
The grounds and roadways of the Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex are closed to the use of bicycles. Bicycles may be dismounted and walked within the National Cemetery & Annex.
No bicycle shall be operated off established roadways. Bicycles shall not be ridden on sidewalks, trails (with the exception of the Taneytown Road trail system) or cross country; bicycles must be walked in these locations.
36 CFR §5.6 Commercial Vehicles
(b) & (c) Using commercial vehicles on government roads within park areas when such use is in no way connected with the operation of the park is generally prohibited, and requires permission or a permit from the Superintendent.
Per Memorandum to Files dated February 12, 1992, the park and Cumberland Township authorities resolved to restrict commercial truck traffic on Wheatfield Road to vehicles weighing less than 13 tons (26,000 pounds). Commercial vehicles weighing less than 13 tons are permitted on Wheatfield Road.
Commercial vehicles are permitted on Millerstown Road.
36 CFR PART 12 – National Cemetery Regulations
12.4 Special Events and Demonstrations
In addition to events conducted for Memorial Day and Veterans Day, the following dates are designated as dates of special historic significance to the Gettysburg National Cemetery and Annex. Events conducted in commemoration of those dates are permitted:
Battle Anniversary, July 1st-3rd
Justification: The Battle of Gettysburg occurred on July 1-3 1863. The Gettysburg National Cemetery was initially established as a burial ground for United States soldiers killed during this battle. On July 1, 1869, dedication of the Soldiers' National Monument at the center of the burial grounds marked the completion of this designed cemetery landscape.
Dedication Day, November 19th
Justification: On November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln dedicated the unfinished Gettysburg National Cemetery, just a month after burials in the cemetery had started. It was at this dedication that President Lincoln delivered a few short remarks, later known as the Gettysburg Address. The dedication date of the Gettysburg National Cemetery was officially recognized as "Dedication Day" by the United States Congress in 1946.
Remembrance Day. Closest Saturday in November to Dedication Day
Justification: This is the day that the Borough of Gettysburg and broader Gettysburg community observes Dedication Day and the delivery of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. This date coincides with Dedication Day periodically (every 7th year).
12.10 Floral and Commemorative Tributes
The placing of wreaths and floral items is subject to the following restrictions:
Fresh cut flowers may be placed on graves at any time.
Coins and other metal objects are not permitted to be placed on headstones or monuments; these objects can cause staining of the stone surfaces.
Artificial flowers and potted plants shall be permitted on graves during the period from October 10 through April 15. In areas where the growing season extends generally the year round, artificial flowers and potted plants shall be permitted on graves 10 days before through 10 days after Easter Sunday and Memorial Day.
During the winter holiday season, wreaths, floral grave blankets and other floral arrangements shall be permitted commencing December 1 and allowed to remain on the grave through January 20 of each year. Grave floral blankets shall not be larger in size than two by three feet (2' x 3').
Permanent plantings, statues, vigil lights, balloon displays, breakable objects of any kind, and similar commemorative items are not permitted on graves at any time. These and other hazardous objects shall be removed by cemetery personnel whenever found on a grave.
Floral items and other types of decorations shall not be secured or attached to the headstone or commemorative monument.
Flowers shall be removed from graves and disposed of by cemetery personnel when they become withered, faded, or otherwise unsightly. All floral items which conflict with normal grounds maintenance may be removed.
In order to remain responsive to the public, artificial flowers and other commemorative or religious items that are placed on graves in violation of the conditions stated above shall be removed by cemetery personnel. Such items may be held in an inconspicuous holding area for retrieval by the owners for a period of 60 days prior to disposal.
Florists shall not be permitted to deliver flowers to a grave and leave them thereon without removing and taking away all boxes, wrapping paper, or other packaging materials.
Permanent in-ground flower containers are not authorized for placement in any National Cemetery. Existing containers may remain until they become unserviceable.
Only United States flags are permitted to be placed in the National Cemetery. As with other commemorative items placed in violation of these conditions, any flags other than the United States flag will be removed by park staff and held in an inconspicuous holding area for retrieval by the owners for a period of 60 days prior to disposal.
First amendment area map for Gettysburg National Military Park.
NPS Map
Appendix A. Map of First Amendment Demonstration Areas for:
Gettysburg National Military Park
Eisenhower National Historic Site
First Amendment area map for Eisenhower National Historic Site.
