Permits

Timeline for Permit Applications:

Regardless of the event type, permits should be submitted at least two weeks in advance. Permits are approved on a first come first serve basis. Earlier submittal is recommended especially in the instance of complex events.

 

What Requires a Special Use Permit?

Great Falls requires visitors to obtain permits before participating in certain activities such as weddings or ceremonies, special events, and commercial filming and photography. Left unregulated, these activities could cause harmful impacts to the park's natural and/or cultural resources or to the enjoyment of the park by other visitors. Below are common events that require Special Use Permits (SUP).

 

Wedding Cermonies

Where can weddings be held?

Wedding ceremonies may only be held on the concrete platform at Overlook 3. Weddings will not have exclusive access to the Overlook and may not restrict access of other visitors to paths or overlooks. 

Can decorations be used?

Event tents, awnings, canopies, and other forms of decoration are not permitted. Posting of signs on trees or park signs is prohibited. Chairs may be used for guests with accessibility needs but must be hand carried to the site. Acoustic music is permitted but must maintain a sound level that does not disturb other visitors. 

Holding a reception at Great Falls Park:

Picnic tables and grills are first come, first serve. No reservations are accepted. Decoration restricts still apply in Picnic Area.  

Entering the park for a wedding:

All attendees must pay the standard entrance fee for the park, this includes professional photographers and videographers for the wedding. Handicap Parking is available. Park closures due to maximum capacity are common in the spring and summer, plan your arrival accordingly. 

Form and Fees:

Fill out the NPS Form 10-930 (.pdf) and send it in to [e-mail] to begin your application process at least a week before the requested date. There is a $90 nonrefundable application fee that can be paid at: Pay.gov - George Washington Memorial Parkway Special Use Permit Fees. Leave the "permit number" area blank.

 

First Amendment

Freedom of speech, the press, religion, and assembly are Constitutional Rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect legitimate government interests. Therefore, in order to protect park resources, the NPS may regulate certain aspects of First Amendment activities, such as the time, the place and the manner in which they are conducted.

Great Falls First Amendment Area:

The Great Falls First Amendment Area is on the southern end of the picnic area. Visit the Superintendents Compendium to view a map of where this is located and other First Amendment Areas across the Parkway.  

When Is a Permit Needed to Use the First Amendment Area?

The First Amendment Area is a first come first serve area. A permit is needed to use this site if the group size exceeds 25 people (maximum of 75), or the individual or group is using more than handheld items. These items would include, but is not limited to, the use of tents, tables, signs, pamphlet displays, etc. 

Can I use amplified sound?

Sounds may only be amplified to speak to the immediate group attending. It may not be used to amplify across the park or picnic area. 

Am I allowed to promote individual businesses or companies?

Financial transactions are not permitted within Great Falls Park, including the First Amendment area and the endorsement of businesses or companies is prohibited.  

Form and Fees:

Fill out the NPS Form 10-930 (.pdf) and send it in to [e-mail] to begin your application process at least a week before the requested date. Leave the "permit number" area blank. There is a no application fee for First Amendment Permit applications. 

 

Scattering of Cremation Ashes

Please download the Scattering of Cremation Ashes Permit Memo in order to scatter ashes from human cremains in Great Falls Park, Virginia. Please follow the specific rules and conditions outlined in the letter. There is no fee for the scattering of ashes, but for the permit letter to be valid, you must report in order to scatter ashes from human cremains in Great Falls Park, Virginia.

 

Filming and Photos, Races, and Other Public Gatherings:

Special Use Permits are require for Commercial Filming and Photos, Organized Races, and Other Public Gatherings in George Washington Parkway. Groups larger than 25 individuals planning to use the park for recreation are required to have a permit. These permits are completed through the National Mall Office. Visit the National Mall’s permit page to learn more about the application process and restrictions. Need further information? Call 202-245-4715.  

 

Incidental Business Permits:

Incidental Business Permits are required for any business that will be bringing paying clients into the park for any reason, including:

• Rock climbing
• Horseback riding
• Hiking tours
• Kayaking, rafting, and canoeing

 

Drones:

Drone use is prohibited.

In part, under 36 CFR 1.5, launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within boundaries of Great Falls Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.

 

Right of Way, Temporary Construction, and Other Permits

To find out more about the other permits that may be issues for Great Falls and George Washington Memorial Parkway, please visit the Parkway's Permit Page.

 

Need More Information?

If you need more information or specifics surrounding potential permits, contact the Special Use Permit office.

Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]