Laws & Policies

Signs are used across monument land to inform visitors of conditions, policies, laws, and regulations.

NPS/ Gin Majka

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument was designated as a National Park Service site in 2016 through the Antiquities Act.

Park Regulations

National Park Service laws and regulations are identified in the Code of Federal Regulations (Title 36: Parks, Forests and Public Property).

In addition, each National Park Service site compiles an annual Compendium of rules, which are subject to the discretionary authority of the park superintendent. These rules have the force of law and protect both visitors and wildlife, making sure that visitors can enjoy parks in safety while the National Park Service continues to preserve and maintain vital park resources.

Park management is also guided by National Park Service Management Policies.

Firearms in National Parks

As of February 22, 2010, federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. As a starting point, visit the Maine State Police website.

Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.