Laws & Policies

Superintendent's Compendium

The compendium (pdf, 2.4 mb) is a document that lists special designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority of the superintendent.

 

Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) Prohibited in the Park

Mesa Verde National Park advises visitors that the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) are prohibited within park boundaries due to regulations outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Specifically, the use of drones within the park boundaries is illegal under all circumstances. Thirty Six CFR 2.17(a)(3) states, "delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss, or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit" is illegal. This applies to drones of all shapes and sizes.

The park has experienced an increase in visitors using drones within park boundaries over the last two years. Drones have been witnessed filming archeological sites, filming views over canyon drop offs, and filming aerial footage of the park and park roadways. Drones can be extremely noisy, and can impact the natural soundscape. Drones can also impact the visitor experience for the public who are attempting to encounter solitude in their visit. The use of drones can also interfere with emergency operations and can cause confusion and distraction for personnel and other parties involved. Additionally, drones can have negative impacts on wildlife nearby the area of use.

Visitors traveling to the park should be aware that the use of drones is prohibited while visiting the park and should not be used at any time.

 

Marijuana on Federal Lands

Posted: January 27, 2014. With the legalization of marijuana in the State of Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park would like to provide clarification regarding the use of possession of marijuana on Federal lands. The recently passed Colorado State law, which allows for limited recreational marijuana use under certain conditions, has no bearing on Federal laws which continue to identify marijuana as a Schedule I illegal drug, and prohibit its use.

Possession of marijuana or use of any amount of marijuana is still prohibited in Mesa Verde National Park, its facilities, concessions, and campgrounds. Violations are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000.00 for an individual or $10,000.00 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both (16 U.S.C. 551, 18 U.S.C. 3559 and 3571).

If you have questions, please contact the Chief Ranger's Office at 970-529-4461.