Of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority
2023
Under the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, Manassas National Battlefield Park establishes the regulations to properly manage, protect and govern the park’s public use. Title 54, United States Code, Subtitle I, Division A, Chapter 1001 authorizes these regulations in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
The written determinations that Section 1.5(c) requires for the Superintendent’s discretionary authority appear in this document in italicized print.
Original Signature on file
Approved By: James Bailey, Superintendent (A)
Original Signature on file
Recommended By: Brad Farlinger, Chief Ranger
A. What is the Compendium?
B. What laws and policies allow the Superintendent to develop this Compendium?
C. Does this compendium comply with applicable Federal law and requirements?
D. How are the requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium developed?
E. Where does the Compendium Apply?
F. Who enforces this Compendium?
G. Is there a penalty for not adhering to the requirements found in this Compendium?
Visiting Hours
Closures
Horse Trailer Parking Areas
Picnicking
Ham Radio Operations, Kite Flying and Frisbee Throwing
Using Inner Tubes, Sleds, Toboggans and Similar Over-Snow Toys
The Manassas National Battlefield Park Superintendent’s Compendium summarizes park specific rules implemented under the Park Superintendent’s discretionary authority. It is public notice that gives the public a chance to comment, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on those public use and resource protection regulations regarding the specific administration of the park. It does not contain those regulations found in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) and other United States Codes (U.S.C.) and C.F.R. Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
36 C.F.R. Parts 1-7 regulations are the National Park Service’s (NPS) basic mechanism to preserve and protect the park’s natural and cultural resources and to protect visitors and property in the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all National Park System areas and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each Part has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Certain Part 1-7 sections and subsections grant the Superintendent discretionary authority to develop local rules respond to a specific park’s resource or activity, park plan, program, the general public’s special needs or a combination of these.
This compendium should be used with 36 C.F.R. Sections 1-7 to understand more fully the regulations governing all National Park System areas’ use and enjoyment.
B. What laws and policies allow the Superintendent to develop this Compendium?
54 U.S.C. Subtitle I, Division A, Ch. 1001, § 100101(a) (National Park Service Organic Act of 1916, as amended) grants the NPS broad statutory authority in to “... regulate the use of the National Park System by means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in the System units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.”
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions regarding the NPS Subtitle I, Division A, U.S.C.. 1001, § 100101 (Ch)(1), Congress brought all areas the NPS administered 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 reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various System units shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by subsection (a), to the common benefit of all people of the United States.” 54 U.S.C. Subtitle I, Division A, Ch. 1005, § 100501 defines the National Park System as “... any areas of land and water administered by the Secretary, acting through the Director, for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.”
36 C.F.R. Ch § 1.7(b) requires the Superintendent to compile in writing all the designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority. This compilation, called the Superintendent’s Compendium, will be updated annually and made available to the public upon request. Besides the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is also guided by established policy found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). As this Compendium outlines, the NPS primary role is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources 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 be in appropriate in another.
Each Park 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 grounds to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
C. Does this Compendium comply with applicable Federal law and requirements?
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring an Office of Management and Budget review under Executive Order 12866. This Compendium complies with Title 54 United States Code and Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
D. How are the requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium developed?
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority to determine what uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area.
The Superintendent’s Compendium requirements are developed with an analysis and decision process for that particular NPS area. The decision criteria used during this process are:
1. Is the use or activity consistent with the National Park Service Organic Act and NPS policy?
2. Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
3. Will the use or activity damage or impair the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
4. Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
5. Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
6. Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
E. Where does this Compendium apply?
This Compendium’s regulations apply to all persons in federally owned lands and waters boundaries that the NPS administers as part of Manassas National Battlefield Park.
F. Who enforces the requirements of this Compendium?
Only NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers or a cross designated Law Enforcement Officer can enforce United States Code, F Titles, and this Superintendent’s Compendium requirements. However, many federal laws and regulations have similar statutes state and local law. Many Compendium requirements complement existing state and local law and regulations that are also in effect in the park and enforced by state and local law enforcement officers.
G. Is there a penalty for not adhering to the requirements found in this Compendium?
A person who violates any regulations in Title 36 NPS Parts 1-7 or this compendium is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 C.F.R. § 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 C.F.R. § 3559), or both, and will be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings.
I. 36 CFR § 1.5 - VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES
(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Park Grounds and Facilities Hours of Operation:
The dates and hours of operations may be changed upon order of the Superintendent according to park management needs, without requiring revision of this Compendium. Any such changes will be communicated to the public.
The park, to include parking lots, buildings, trails, and facilities, are closed to use and visitation during the period from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Sunrise and sunset times are determined by www.timeanddate.com/manassas. The park facilities will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.
The Henry Hill Visitor Center will be open daily. Daily hours of operation are subject to change and will be posted at the center
The Brawner Farm Interpretive Center and restrooms are open seasonally, March through November. Daily hours of operation are subject to change.
The historic Stone House is open seasonally, April through October. Daily hours of operation are subject to change.
Park Headquarters and the Servicing HR Office maintain office hours for National Park Service business, by invitation only. They are not open to public use or visitation.
6750 Sudley Road, associated structures and grounds, storage buildings, and adjacent parking areas are closed to the public with the exception of deliveries or other authorized personnel. Deliveries may be made no earlier than 07:00 a.m. until no later than 02:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays and weekends.
Determination of Closure/Limitations The maintenance areas store and maintain hazardous equipment and materials. There are no public services in these areas or facilities. It is in the interest of public safety to restrict these areas to authorized personnel
10606, 10610, and 10612 Lee Highway, tack room, hay barn, horse pastures, horse stalls, and adjacent parking areas and roads are closed to the public.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Law enforcement horses and associated equipment are not for public use or interaction. Presence in their areas is dangerous and requires appropriate training and supervision. Therefore, only authorized personnel may enter these areas. Additionally, a private government residence and associated areas are not open to public use.
The following addresses and associated structures and grounds are closed to the public:
• 6518, 6221, and 6213 Featherbed Lane
• 5805 Sudley Road – Access to the fishing pond is allowed via the driveway
• 5309 Sudley Road
• 11108 Lee Highway – Access to the wayside and associated fishing pond is only allowed via the driveway
• 6706 Groveton Road
The following exceptions exist:
• National Park Service employees, including park volunteers and historic reenactors, may be present in the park areas at any time conducting official business.
Persons holding a valid scientific research permit when such permit authorizes specific closure and use limit exceptions.
• Park residents and their invited guests may be present at their park residence at any time.
Determination of Closure/Limitations In consideration of the purpose for which the park was established, routine visitor use is restricted to daylight hours. The Superintendent will review and consider written requests for after-hours uses of the park. Due to a history of illegal activities occurring in the park during evening hours (to include the degradation of natural and/or cultural resources, as well as crimes against persons), it is in the best interest of the park and public to restrict use of the park to daylight hours
Area Closures
The following additional areas are closed to the public:
• All areas displaying signage that the area is closed, when pursuant to a Superintendent’s Order.
• 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 conditions. Roadways and parking lots may be closed with gates, barricades or other traffic control devices. Driving or riding around or past these devices is prohibited.
Unmanned Aircraft
Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft within the boundaries of federally owned lands and waters administered by the National Park Service as Manassas National Battlefield Park is prohibited without the Superintendent’s prior written approval. “Unmanned Aircraft” is defined as a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and 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, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce
Determination of Closure/Limitations The inherent qualities of unmanned aircraft use – high-decibel sound levels at high pitch, potentially uncontrolled aerial devices, intrusion upon the visual landscape, and attempts at rescuing errant aircraft from treetops – are incompatible with the values of peace and quiet the park seeks to protect and present a danger to visitor and user safety. This closure is in keeping with National Park Service Policy Memorandum 14-05 regarding unmanned aircraft, issued June 2014
(a)(2) The Superintendent may designate areas for specific use of activity or impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity. The following restrictions and/or conditions are in effect for the specific uses or activities noted:
Recreational and Sporting Activities
Unless specifically authorized, the following activities are prohibited:
• Launching model rockets
• Releasing domestic birds
• Sunbathing
• Hammocks
• Hitting golf balls or use of golf clubs
• Throwing objects through the air (frisbees, footballs, baseballs, etc.)
• Easter egg or treasure hunts
• Organized athletic events or competitive recreation events
Determination of Closure/Limitations Certain recreation uses are prohibited as they detract from the significance and purpose of the National Battlefield Park. These uses also create the potential for visual intrusion of the historic scene and interfere with the visitor's understanding of the First and Second Battles of Manassas. The use of the park for organized athletic events or competitive recreation events is not generally compatible with the significance and purpose of the park
Balloons
Releasing helium-filled balloons is prohibited in all park areas.
Determination of Closure/ Limitations This measure is required to protect wildlife that may encounter and become entangled with or swallow punctured balloons, and to prevent the deposit of litter on the landscape.
Geocaches
Leaving property unattended for the purpose of being found or visited by others via a social network, such as Geocaching or Letterboxing, is prohibited without a special use permit.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Placing geocaches and objects in the park is a prohibited activity based upon potential negative impacts on natural and cultural resources. The negative impacts of concern include digging holes to bury caches, manipulating vegetation and geological formations to conceal caches, disturbing underground cultural resources, archeological resources or both, creating unauthorized social trails, and abandoning property.
Vehicle Maintenance
Washing, cleaning, or repairing vehicles (other than short-term emergency repairs) by visitors is prohibited.
Determination of Closure/Limitations This measure is required to protect the park’s water supply and to prevent gray water and toxic substances being released into natural areas
Cultural Resources, Statues, and Natural Features
Bearing any weight upon, or placing any person or object upon a statue, monument, cannon, caisson, limber, hay bale, or other natural or cultural feature is prohibited. This prohibition includes tree and rock wall climbing.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Many items in the park provide significant historical contributions while in place/context. These are not meant or placed for recreation and can be easily damaged by even the most innocent activities. The statues and monuments found in the Battlefield were not designed to bear any human weight and could break or deform causing injury or death. Stacked hay bales can dislodge, roll, or deform causing injury or death to a climber.
Ham Radio Operations, Kite flying and Frisbee throwing:
These activities are restricted to Brownsville Picnic Area
Determination of Closure/Limitations Given the existing infrastructure, it's designation as a picnic area and that the area does not have a primary role in the interpretation of the First and Second Battles of Manassas, the picnic area is a reasonable location to allow those activities often associated with picnicking.
Using inner tubes, sleds, toboggans, and similar over-snow toys:
These activities are restricted to Buck Hill and New York Avenue
Determination of Closure/Limitations Snow sliding is authorized in the above locations; however, these activities will be monitored to determine the impact on cultural and natural resources, staffing, and interference with the enjoyment and education benefits gained by other park visitors. Buck Hill and New York Avenue are one of the few places on public land in the area that people can enjoy sliding on snow and have historically attracted many people for the purpose of snow sliding. Because opportunities for snow play occur only rarely, this activity does not routinely detract from the legislative intent of the Battlefield. Cross country skiing and snow shoeing are authorized on park trails.
II. 36 CFR § 1.6 - ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the Superintendent is required:
§ 1.5(d) The Following activities related to Public Use Limits:
Dog training for the purposes of search and rescue, guide dog, law enforcement or sport/competition.
§ 2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap or net, excluding firearms compliant with State law. Permits only issued for authorized research.
§ 2.12 Audio Disturbances:
(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.
§ 2.17 Aircraft & 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
§ 2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52.
§ 2.38 Explosives:
(a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
(b) Use or possess fireworks
§ 2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events.
§ 2.52(c) Groups of 25 or more that sell or distribute printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising.
§ 2.62 Memorialization:
(a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from the Director)
(b) Scattering ashes from human cremation in the following areas, and/or according to the following terms and conditions:
1. Stone Bridge in the blue bell areas
2. Buck Hill
3. The scattering of ashes is permitted only in the two numbered areas and only in such a quantity so as not to interfere with visitor use and proper sanitation. See attached map # 1.
§ 5.1 Advertisements - (Display, posting or distribution.)
§ 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).
§ 5.5(a) Commercial Photography/Filming
§ 5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads path, structure, etc.
§ 7.96(b)(1) Playing baseball, football, croquet, tennis, and other organized games or sports except pursuant to a permit and upon the grounds provided for such purposes, is prohibited. This regulation includes any game that includes one or more people, regardless of whether any items are used to facilitate that game (e.g., ball, club, or bat).
§ 7.96(c) Model planes. Flying a model powered plane from any park area is prohibited without a permit.
§ 7.96(k)(2) The sale or distribution of printed matter, buttons, and bumper stickers.
§ 7.96(g) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public expressions of views with groups greater than 25 persons.
Designated areas for assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public expressions of views, and distribution of printed matter considered as 1st Amendment activities are as follows:
1. The Oak Grove (southeast of the parking lot) at the Henry Hill Visitor Center.
2. The west end of the upper parking lot at Stuart's Hill Park Headquarters.
3. Brownsville Picnic area.
Determination of Closure/Limitations
Because of the historical importance as the site of the First and Second Battles of Manassas during the Civil War, the park and its historic structures and monuments are of national significance. The Henry Hill Visitor Center is the primary center for interpretation for the First Battle of Manassas and the first contact/orientation site for park visitors. The Henry farmstead saw the heaviest fighting at the First Battle of Manassas and the house serves as a focal point for the interpretation of the battle. The Stone House is one of the park's most recognized landmarks. Its location at the junction of the Warrenton Turnpike and the Sudley-Manassas Road helped determine its use as field hospital for both First and Second Battles of Manassas. The Brawner Farm witnessed the initial fighting in the Second Battle of Manassas, and it serves as the primary focal point for the interpretation of Second Manassas. Special events and First Amendment activities in the above listed areas are not reasonable because such activities would significantly interfere with interpretive and visitor service activities.
The Superintendent will determine the location of each activity based on the nature and duration of the proposed event, the estimated number of persons expected to attend, and other information required to complete the permit application form. A permit application may be denied if the activity does not allow for continued public use of the area, if the event presents a clear and present danger to the public health or safety, or if the printed materials are solely commercial.
The time, location, and conditions for certain activities shall be regulated by a permit to avoid infringement upon the enjoyment of others visiting the park, traffic congestion, protection of the cultural and natural resources, disruption of normal park operation, and the unwarranted risk of participants use to inadequate equipment, poor supervision of the activity, weather, and other factors.
The right to engage in public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, and distribute printed materials is provided for in the United States Constitution; these activities are authorized in the park provided the group is less than 25 persons or a permit has been issued by the superintendent.
III. General Regulations
36 CFR § 2.1 - Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources
(c)(1) The gathering, by hand, of the following fruits, nuts, and berries for personal use or consumption is permitted. The gathering, by hand, of nuts lying on the ground is permitted.
Fruit, Nut and Berry
Daily Person Limit
Nuts such as: Hickory, Chestnuts, and Walnuts
1 Bushel
Berries such as: Wineberries and Raspberries
1/2 Gallon
Mushrooms such as: Morels
1 Gallon
Fruits such as: Apples, Pears, and Paw Paw
2 Bushels
Determination of Closure/Limitations To protect natural resources, implements may not be used to gather fruits, nuts, or berries. Digging is prohibited, including ground disturbing activities such as staking, except by permit. Areas in the park that contain fruits, nuts, or berries will continue to provide a relatively undisturbed source of seeds for plant reproduction and food for wildlife. There is no evidence to suggest that the limited gathering for personal consumption of the items has had an adverse impact on park resources.
36 CFR § 2.2 - Wildlife Protection
(e) Except pursuant to the terms of a permit, the use of artificial light and infrared lighting/beams for the purposes of viewing wildlife is prohibited.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Hunting is prohibited in the park. Viewing wildlife by means of artificial light disturbs wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is open daylight hours only.
36 CFR § 2.3 - Fishing
(a) In consultation with appropriate agencies of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the following are prohibited:
Fishing without possessing a valid Virginia State Fishing License is prohibited. All residents 16 years of age or older are required to have a license. All non-residents, 12 years of age or older are required to possess a license.
Fishing while in possession of live or dead minnows and live or dead amphibians.
Fishing is authorized in all park ponds for catch and release only.
Determination of Closure/Limitations In an effort to maintain a viable Bass population in park ponds, the Superintendent has determined that all ponds will be catch and release only.
36 CFR § 2.10 - Camping and Food Storage
(a) Camping is generally prohibited, except as provided under the following conditions noted:
• Camping is permitted in connection with park sponsored living history programs.
• Any other camping will be permitted only in connection with a Special Use Permit
Camping is defined as the use of park land for living accommodation purposes such as sleeping activities, or making preparations to sleep (including the laying down of bedding for the purpose of sleeping), or storing personal belongings, or making any fire, or using any tents or shelter or other structure or vehicle for sleeping or doing any digging or earth breaking or carrying on cooking activities. The above-listed activities constitute camping when it reasonably appears, in light of all the circumstances, that the participants, in conducting these activities, are in fact using the area as a living accommodation regardless of the intent of the participants or the nature of any other activities in which they may also be engaging. 36 CFR 7.96(i)(1) The park was not established for overnight occupancy and does not have the necessary amenities for overnight use. There are numerous commercial camping and lodging facilities in close proximity to the park.
Determination of Closure/Limitations The park was not established for overnight occupancy and does not have the necessary amenities for overnight use. There are numerous commercial camping and lodging facilities near the park.
36 CFR § 2.11 - Picnicking
Picnicking is restricted to the Brownsville and Stuart’s Hill picnic areas. Placing any objects or items onto the ground outside those areas, especially those that impede the free movement of people or impairs the Battlefield landscape, is prohibited. This prohibition includes blankets, chairs, mats, coolers, or other items that may or may not facilitate the gathering of people or the consumption of food.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Picnicking, as well as other types of recreational activities are inconsistent with the legislative intent and contemplative nature of most areas of the park. Visitors expect areas set aside for the consumption of food and drinks, and the park has accommodated this expectation at Brownsville Picnic Area and Stuart's Hill. Additionally, the placement of items onto park grounds damages the Battlefield’s physical and visual landscape. Ample facilities for gathering and picnicking can be found at the Brownsville Picnic Area.
36 CFR § 2.13 - Fires
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
• Portable grills, smokers, and fire pans may be used at Brownsville Picnic Area, so long as such cooking does not harm park property, (such as picnic tables) or other park resources. The disposal of hot or cold coals and/or ashes in the park is prohibited.
• Campfires are permitted in connection with park sponsored living history programs.
• Any other campfires will be permitted only in connection with a Special Use Permit
36 CFR § 2.15 - Pets
(a)(3) Pets may be left unattended and tied to an object in the following areas, under the following conditions:
Pets may be tethered in developed areas for periods not to exceed 5 minutes provided they are tied in such a manner that they are not able to reach a walkway and have a source of water.
(a)(5) Visitors are required to remove pet excrement from parking lots and developed visitor use areas, such as picnic areas, in and around the Visitor Center and historic structures and monuments.
36 CFR § 2.16 - Horses and Pack Animals
(a) The following animals are designated as pack animals for the purpose of carrying equipment: Horses, Mules, Llamas, Burros, Donkeys
(b) Horseback riding is allowed on the designated bridle trails in the park. A map of designated bridle trails is available at the Visitor Center, park headquarters, or from any park ranger. Bridle trails are identifiable by a yellow circle on trail signposts.
(g) Riding off established bridle trails is prohibited
Determination of Closure/Limitations Horseback riding on established bridle trails is compatible with the primary purposes of the park and affords equestrians compatible recreational opportunities. In certain areas, recreational horseback riding, can detract from the significance and purpose of the park. Equestrian use in sensitive areas such as wet or riparian zones or in culturally sensitive sites can have impacts that are inconsistent with the protection of the cultural and natural resources of the park.
36 CFR § 2.18 - Snowmobiles
There are no designated snowmobile routes. Therefore, snowmobiles are prohibited in all park areas.
Determination of Closure/Limitations Snowmobile use is inconsistent with the park’s natural, cultural, scenic and aesthetic values, safety considerations, park management objectives, and potentially disturbs wildlife while damaging park resources. The park is not able to manage or mitigate the impacts of snowmobiles on park resources.
36 CFR § 2.21 - Smoking
(a) Smoking or Electronic Nicotine Delivering Systems (ENDS or "Vapes") use is prohibited in the following locations:
• Inside all government facilities and structures, including Park housing
• Within 25 feet of any entrance or exit primarily accessed by the visiting public
• Inside government vehicles
• Within 25 feet of any vehicle or equipment while fueling
• Within 25 feet of any hay bales
• On trails during periods of “Very High” or “Extreme” fire danger, as established by the Virginia Department of Forestry
Determination of Closure/Limitations
Smoking in government facilities and vehicles is prohibited by agency policy DO 50D and Prince William County Code of Ordinances, Sec. 23.1-2. Smoking is also prohibited to protect sensitive cultural and historic structures from the presence of tobacco smoke and the potential for fire.
36 CFR § 2.23 - Recreation Fees
Effective on Friday, January 1, 2016, the National Park Service eliminated the entrance fee for visiting Manassas National Battlefield Park. In addition to the elimination of the entrance fees, Manassas will no longer be offering the America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes or other Interagency passes. These passes can be purchased at most federal recreation sites that collect entrance fees, or through the Federal Recreation Pass website at http://www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm
36 CFR § 2.35 – Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances
The consumption of alcoholic beverages, including the possession of an open container of alcoholic beverage, is prohibited in all park areas. This includes parking lots and picnic areas but excepts those containers described in 36 CFR § 4.14.
Determination of Closure/Limitations The prohibition of alcoholic beverage possession and consumption is consistent with State and local laws. They are inappropriate considering the purpose for which the park was established.
36 CFR § 4.10 – Travel on Park Roads and Designated Routes
(a) Operating a motor vehicle is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas and on routes.
Off-road motor vehicle use is prohibited. All vehicles must remain entirely on paved road surfaces except as indicated by traffic direction. Vehicles are not allowed on paved trails. The Superintendent may issue permits for limited off-road travel in support of National Park Service operations.
Determination of Closure/Limitations In cooperation with the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Superintendent has established these routes and restrictions as reasonable and safe for the identified locations. These locations have been posted with signs.
36 CFR § 4.13 – Obstructing Traffic
Parking is prohibited outside of designated spaces. Stopping, standing, or parking in front of any gate or building entrance is prohibited. Buses must only park in spaces designated for bus parking. Horse Trailers are prohibited in all parking lots except Brownsville Picnic Area and Vandor Lane. Unless indicated by signs, roadway markings, or officer’s signals, only counterclockwise travel is allowed through parking areas.
Determination of Closure/Limitations The Brownsville Picnic Area and Vandor Lane parking lots are large enough to accommodate several vehicles and horse trailers while providing access to bridle trails, with minimum impact to the visitor. It is the responsibility of equestrians to remove manure and other organic products (hay, wood shavings, feed, etc.) from the parking lots.
Chinn Ridge Access Road
The entrance from and exit to Sudley Road (Rte. 234) is one-way traffic only. Two-way traffic is only allowed between the parking area at Hazel Plain and the Hooe Family Cemetery.
Henry Hill Visitor Center
All-day, commuter, and parking for purposes unrelated to park operations or visitation is prohibited. Overflow parking may be allowed outside of designated spaces (including unpaved surfaces) at the discretion of the Superintendent as directed by park personnel. Signs, cones, and/or other signals will indicate when this activity is permissible.
Stone House Parking Area
All-day, commuter, and parking for purposes unrelated to park operations or visitation is prohibited. Motorcycle parking spaces may only be utilized by vehicles which fit between the painted lines.
Access Road to 10610 Lee Highway
There are no designated parking spaces anywhere along this road.
36 CFR § 4.21 - Speed Limits
(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
Chinn Ridge Access Road 25 miles per hour
Brawner Farm Road 15 miles per hour
New York Avenue 15 miles per hour
Brownsville Picnic Area 15 miles per hour
Determination of Closure/Limitations
The Superintendent has established these speed limits as reasonable and safe for the identified locations. These locations have been posted with traffic control signs.
36 CFR § 4.30 - Bicycles
Bicycles are only allowed on park roads and in parking areas that are otherwise open for motor vehicle use by the public. Bicycles are prohibited on all trails, including paved trails. E-bikes are allowed wherever traditional bicycles are allowed.
Determination of Closure/Limitations The closure of the use of bicycles on trails is necessary for the protection of scenic values, protection of the natural resources, implementation of management responsibilities, and to avoid conflict among visitor use activities such as equestrians. Less restrictive measures will not suffice because of the potential threat to irreplaceable cultural resources throughout the battlefield.
36 CFR § 5.6 – Commercial Vehicles
Commercial vehicles and common carriers are prohibited on park roads and bridges within the National Capital Area except when authorized by a permit. 36 CFR § 7.96(f)(1)
