Superintendent’s Compendium of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority
National Capital Parks-East:
Anacostia Park (DC)
Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD)
Battery Carroll (DC)
Capitol Hill Parks (DC)
Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site (DC)
Fort Chaplin (DC)
Fort Davis (DC)
Fort Dupont Park (DC)
Fort Foote (MD)
Fort Greble (DC)
Fort Mahan (DC)
Fort Ricketts (DC)
Fort Stanton (DC)
Fort Washington Park (MD)
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site (DC)
Greenbelt Park (MD)
Harmony Hall (MD)
Kenilworth Park (DC)
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens (DC)
Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site (DC)
Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm (MD)
Piscataway Park (MD)
Shepherd Parkway (DC)
Suitland Parkway (DC/MD)
A. Introduction
1. Superintendent’s Compendium Described
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.
The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park, manage visitor use, provide for visitor safety, and protect property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the national park system, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or prohibiting 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.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all the areas of the national park system. Violating any provision in this compendium may result in criminal penalties under 36 CFR 1.3.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at:
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
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 1 et.seq. (Organic Act of 1954, 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 1). 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 3).
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 1a1-1a8), 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 1954.
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 1c 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 NPS 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 visitors 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, then 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, 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.
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 park or specific park 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 the use or activity consistent with the NPS Title 54 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 and United States Park Police 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 six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), 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 United States Park Police or the park address.
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.
10. Additional Information
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
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 3, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of National Capital Parks-East. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations that 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.
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:
Visiting Hours
Schedule of Visiting Hours
Pursuant to 36 CFR §1.5, the areas of lands and waters administered by National Capital Parks - East are open to the public each day between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. unless otherwise posted or included in the exceptions listed below: Persons are exempted from this closure when they are specifically invited into an otherwise closed area by an authorized employee of National Capital Parks - East, in order to conduct official business. The authorized employee may rescind the exemption when they believe that the purpose of the visit has been concluded.
Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
Free Skate Rental: Memorial Day through Labor Day 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
Capitol Hill Parks
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site
Temporarily closed for construction
Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
Open: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Open: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, October 1 through March 31
Open: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, April 1 through September 30
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Fort Foote Park
Open: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (gated areas)
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (pedestrian access)
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Fort Washington Park
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
Fort Washington Historic Fort and Visitor Center
Open: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Greenbelt Park
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
Campground: Open to registered campers and guests 24 hours, every day, year-round
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Open: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Oxon Cove Park
Open: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily (gated areas)
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (pedestrian access)
Oxon Hill Farm
Open: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Piscataway Park (includes Accokeek Creek Boardwalk, Farmington Landing, and Marshall Hall)
Open: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (gated areas)
Open: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily (pedestrian access)
Piscataway Park (National Colonial Farm)
Operated in Partnership with Accokeek Foundation
National Colonial Farm Gate
National Colonial Farm Gate
7 am to 7 pm March 1 to May 31
7 am to 9 pm June 1 to August 31
7 am to 7 pm September 1 to October 31
7 am to 5 pm November 1 to February 28(29)
National Colonial Farm Visitor Center
10 am to 4 pm Tuesday – Sunday, March 15 – December 20
Closed: December 16 – March 14
Determination: Limiting hours at the various sites is necessary due to limited staffing to serve visitors. Open areas in parks areas having limited hours are necessary to provide for the safety of park visitors and assist in the protection of park resources.
Public Use Limits (please refer to 36 CFR 1.5):
Maintenance and repair of any vehicle, except for emergencies, is prohibited in all public use areas. Washing and waxing of any vehicle is prohibited in all public use areas. This is to protect natural resources and visitor experience.
Flying kites using glass-coated or other abrasive and/or non-biodegradable kite string or line at any NACE parks in the park is prohibited.
The flying of kites must not negatively affect other visitors. Each kite being flown must be under direct, constant control of a person, and all persons engaged in kite flying must make a reasonable effort to prevent resource damage, including collecting all kite materials. The flying of kites may not interfere with NPS or United States Park Police (USPP) operations. Kites should be flown at least 50 yards away from trees, buildings and may not be flown between Martin Luther King Memorial Bridge (11th St. Bridge) and Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge (South Capitol St. Bridge), nor inside of the fortification at Fort Washington Park.
No cleats are allowed, except on designated athletic fields.
No playing of sports on wet lawns or when otherwise unsuitable for play to not damage the turf.
No access to turf is allowed during frosts, saturated conditions, or conditions that would cause turf damage. Notice of the closure will occur through signage, fencing, red flags, posting on the Park’s website or in the park permit office, or by ranger or officer on-site direction.
Digging or otherwise damaging turf is prohibited.
Use of all types of glass containers in the parks is prohibited.
The following public use limits are established for the following areas:
Site
Area
Capacity Persons
Capitol Hill Parks
Lincoln Park
3,000
Stanton Park
3,000
Marion Park
1,000
Folger Park
2,000
Frederick Douglass NHS
Outside Only
1,000
Kenilworth Park
Field 1
5,000
Field 2
9,600
Field 3
7,600
Anacostia Park
River Terrace
4,500
Field 1
5,000
Field 2
5,000
Field 3
5,000
Field 4
5,000
Field 5
6,200
Field 6
6,400
Field 7
7,000
Tennis Court Field
1,000
Auxiliary Field
2,000
North Field
1,800
North Field Picnic Area A
50
North Field Picnic Area B
150
Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC) Picnic Area A
75
AREC Picnic Area B
75
AREC Picnic Area C
75
Skating Pavilion Floor and Adjacent Terrace
800
Fort Mahan Park
1,200
Fort Stanton
3,000
Fort Dupont Park
Fort Dupont Theatre Grounds
6,800
Lanham Estates
400
Site
Area
Capacity Persons
Fort Dupont Park
Ridge Picnic Area
75
Historic Earthwork Area
75
Randle Circle A
75
Randle Circle B
50
Randle Circle Non-Reserved
180
Fort Washington Park
Fort Washington
5,000
Picnic Area A
150
Picnic Area B1
150
Picnic Area B2
100
Picnic Area B3
150
Picnic Area B-4
150
Picnic Area C
150
Picnic Area D1
35
Picnic Area D2
35
Picnic Area D3
Closed
Greenbelt Park
Holly Picnic Area
200
Laurel Picnic Area
200
Sweetgum Picnic Area
600
Site
Capacity Boat Slips
James Creek Marina
297
Fort Washington Marina
200
Determination: The public use limits provided are necessary to ensure the sustainable use of park resources and to help ensure that visitors have a high-quality experience when visiting the park.
Closures:
Resource Protection Closures:
Fort Washington Park, Maryland (Res. 404M): Old Fort-east facing slopes in rear, Piscataway Cliffs-east of River Trail; Base PX, NCO Quarters, Torpedo Warehouse, and Infirmary
Anacostia Park: Poplar Point area of Anacostia Park (Res. 343, section C): The fenced portion that formerly supported Architect of the Capitol greenhouse operations, and the old District of Columbia Lanham Tree Nursery.
Oxon Cove Landfill: The portion of Oxon Cove Park that is approximately 56 acres north of and 62 acres east of Oxon Cove inlet.
Marshall Hall: Ruins
Harmony Hall: Harmony Hall mansion and Want Water ruins.
Seasonal Comfort Station Closures:
Comfort stations are winterized and closed from November 15th through April 15th each year.
Anacostia Park: Nicholson Street and Skating Pavilion
Fort Dupont Park: Randall Circle, Ridge Picnic Area, Lanham Estates Picnic Area
Greenbelt Park: Holly Picnic Area, Laurel Picnic Area, C Loop Campground, D Loop Campground, D Loop Campground Shower
Fort Washington Park: All Picnic Areas
All ranger stations and visitor centers are closed except when an employee is on duty at the location, or otherwise designated for interpretive, administrative or educational purposes.
The following locations used for operational functions are closed to the public at all times, except for the delivery of supplies and materials or on other official business:
Fort. Dupont Maintenance Complex
Fort Dupont Horse Stables
Fort Washington Maintenance Complex
Greenbelt Maintenance Complex
Kenilworth Maintenance Complex
Oxon Cove Maintenance Complex
Suitland Maintenance Complex
United States Park Police Headquarters and United States Park Police Aviation Unit Complex
Greenbelt Park Law Enforcement Complex
Shepherd Parkway Law Enforcement Complexes
Construction areas as designated by the posting of signs
The Greenbelt Park Campground and its facilities are closed to all public access by other than registered campers or persons visiting registered campers.
Picnic pavilions, campsites, and group tent sites requiring permits or reservations which have been properly reserved are closed to all persons, except those individuals or groups who have reserved them.
Multi-purpose and recreational fields are closed to all public access except registered permit holders during specified dates and times of the permit. Recreation fields are managed and protected to ensure a quality turf is available for all to enjoy. Recreational fields are also closed during inclement weather or within 12 hours of inclement weather.
The following closures may be put into effect by USPP personnel when deemed necessary as a result of high visitation or at the request by NPS personnel.
Anacostia Drive: All traffic may be directed one-way (i.e., north) Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend (to include the Monday holiday) from Marion Barry Avenue, SE to Nicholson Street SE from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. When in effect traffic entering Anacostia Park from Nicholson Street, SE will be restricted from making a left turn onto Anacostia Drive.
Determination: Designated closures are necessary to protect critical park resources, secure facilities during colder months, and to exclude visitors from administrative areas where there are no facilities nor services for the public. Park roads and other areas may be closed or offer limited access due to holidays, weather conditions, security, emergency operations, road construction, special events, and/or high visitation. When and where closures take place will be determined by the Superintendent in consultation with the U.S. Park Police.
36 CFR 1.5 (a)(2) Designated Areas, Conditions or Restrictions on Use or Activity
Conditions or Restrictions on Use or Activity:
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of National Capital Parks-East is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Determination: This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potentials impacts include harming visitors interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 dated June 19, 2014.
Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means 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, model rockets, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Parasailing, wind boarding, and gliding are prohibited.
No buses are allowed to stop/stand/load or unload in the bus stops designated for DC Circulator. Bus idling is prohibited in all areas except during loading and unloading of passengers. DC idling regulations apply (DC Municipal regulations rule 4478701-20-900 ONROAD ENGINE IDLING AND NONROAD DIESEL ENGINE IDLING) which allow 3 minutes of idling, except when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, 5 minutes are allowed. Bus parking is authorized at signed, parking meter locations at the bus rate.
Commercial Vehicles: Access to park roads is limited to vehicles not exceeding 10,000-pound gross axle weight unless permitted. All such requests, other than emergency responses, require an application to the NPS for a permit.
Shade Canopies and Tents: The use of tents for overnight camping is allowed within the Greenbelt Park with a current campground reservation and in areas designated for camping. For all other areas, tents and shade canopies are allowed for day use.
Determination: This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potentials impacts include harming visitors interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 dated June 19, 2014.
Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:
The following roads and areas under the jurisdiction of National Capital Parks-East are designated as snow emergency routes: Suitland Parkway and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway in the State of Maryland, are designated as snow emergency routes. All vehicles on or adjacent to these roads during declared snow emergencies are subject to immediate towing without notification. Any other park roads may be closed during snow emergencies.
Unless operated by persons with a disability, motorized personal mobility devices may only operate on sidewalks or paved multi-use trails.
Users of motorized personal mobility devices must adhere to the following operating standards, most of which are also required under District of Columbia and the State of Maryland regulations on safe use of electric personal assistive mobility devices:
A person shall operate any motorized personal mobility device in a safe and non-hazardous manner so not to endanger oneself or any other person. The speed of the motorized personal mobility device will not exceed 15 M.P.H.
Motorized personal mobility devices should be parked alongside the bicycle racks.
Mini motorcycles (“pocket rockets,” dirt bikes, or all-terrain vehicles) that are not licensed for street use are prohibited.
The following restrictions on recreational activities are in effect:
Moon bounces and other air-filled land-based recreational devices are prohibited, as they can be unsafe and damage park resources.
Physical geocaching is prohibited, as it can disturb plant and animal habitat.
The creation of informal (social) trails is prohibited, as they can be unsafe and damage park resources.
Ice skating is prohibited on all waters, to promote visitor safety.
Staking is prohibited within NACE sites unless otherwise authorized by the Superintendent or his/her designated representative.
Climbing, rappelling, base jumping, bungee jumping, and slacklining, etc. is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Installing, attaching, or using any fixed tensioned ropes (hammocks, exercise equipment) and/or webbing (slacklines), and other devices to trees is prohibited, as this damages the trees.
Hitting golf balls outside the boundaries of Langston Golf Course is prohibited.
All organized sporting activities as part of a league are prohibited unless a permit is granted.
Pony rides, and other such animal rides are prohibited, unless otherwise authorized by the Superintendent or his/her designated representative.
At Greenbelt Park, the Sweetgum multi-purpose playing field is closed to organized sports and events.
Paintball activities are prohibited.
Training exercises by military, police and other groups requires a permit unless the training exercises are conducted by U.S. Park Police and are held immediately adjacent to the U.S. Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility.
Vehicles are permitted to idle only in accordance with the regulations of the state or district in which the vehicle is located.
For the District of Columbia, the engine of a gasoline or diesel powered motor vehicle, the engine of public vehicle for hire, including buses with a seating capacity of twelve (12) or more persons, on public or private space shall not idle for more than three (3) minutes while the motor vehicle is parked, stopped, or standing, including for the purpose of operating air conditioning equipment in those vehicles, except as follows:
a) To operate private passenger vehicles.
b) To operate power takeoff equipment including dumping, cement mixers, refrigeration systems, content delivery, winches, or shredders; or
c) To idle the engine for three (3) minutes to operate heating equipment when the ambient air temperature is thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit (32°F) or below.
Title 20, District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, Chapter 9, Section 900.1
For Maryland, a motor vehicle engine may not be allowed to operate for more than 5 consecutive minutes when the vehicle is not in motion, except as follows:
a) When a vehicle is forced to remain motionless because of traffic conditions or mechanical difficulties over which the operator has no control.
b) When it is necessary to operate heating and cooling, or auxiliary equipment installed on the vehicle.
c) To bring the vehicle to the manufacturer's recommended operating temperature; or
d) When it is necessary to accomplish the intended use of the vehicle.
Maryland Transportation Code §22-402(c)(3)
Camping Areas:
Please refer to §2.10 of this document for detailed camping area designations.
Greenbelt Park: Use of generators and idling vehicles is prohibited during quiet hours in the campground from 10:00 p.m.to 6:00 a.m., daily.
Boat Launching Sites:
Please refer to §3.8 of this document for detailed vessel operation conditions.
Piscataway Park: Marshall Hall Landing, Farmington Landing, Fort Washington Marina
Anacostia Park, near Skating Pavilion
Docking or Mooring Areas:
Fort Washington Marina
James Creek Marina
National Colonial Farm
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:
Weddings
All special events including but are not limited to, sports events, pageants, regattas, parades, and public spectators’ attractions.
First Amendment Demonstrations to include public assemblies, meetings, demonstrations, marches, public expressions of views with more than 25 participants or structures of any kind including a speaker’s platform.
Displaying advertisements during special events. This requires a Secretarial waiver. Otherwise, it is prohibited CFR (5.1); Public Law 108-108 Title I, Sec. 145.
Filming, photography, and audio recording when that involves 9 or more individuals and meets one or more of the following conditions:
Occurs in areas not open to the public
Uses equipment not able to be carried by hand
Requires exclusive use of a site
Adversely impacts park resources, values, or other visitors
Is likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS
Open fire in a personally provided container as part of a religious ceremony.
Picnicking for groups under 25 people is allowed in most park areas. Reservations are required for the following picnic areas and may be obtained for the identified locations:
Anacostia Park
North Field Picnic Areas A and B; Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC) Areas A, B, and C; and River Terrace. Contact: National Capital Parks-East Headquarters, 1900 Anacostia Drive, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20020.
Fort Dupont Park
Fort Dupont Earthworks (Lanham Estates) Picnic Area; Randle Circle Picnic Area: Areas 74 & 74A. Reserved picnicking at this location must be booked online through www.recreation.gov.
Fort Washington Park
Reserved Areas A, B, B1, B2, B3, B4, C, D1, D2, and D3. Reserved picnicking at this location must be booked online through www.recreation.gov.
Greenbelt Park
Laurel Picnic Area and Holly Picnic Area. Picnic season April 15th-October 31st. Reserved picnicking at this location must be booked online through www.recreation.gov.
NPS special regulations in 36 CFR 7.96 for applications for demonstration and special event permits. Applications must be submitted from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays, to: National Mall and Memorial Parks, Office of Permits Management, 1100 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C., 20242 (phone: 202-245-4715). Applicants must provide the following information on the required form:
Name of applicant/organization and telephone number
Date, time, and duration of proposed activity
Nature of activity and proposed location
Number of persons involved/expected
Equipment and facilities desired
Provisions made for clean-up and site restoration
Visit the National Mall and Memorial Parks website “Event Planning Guide” for additional information on the permitting process, and requirements for structures and facilities associated with these events: https://www.nps.gov/nama/learn/management/event-planning-guide.htm
Races (includes running and bicycle events)
Permittees must mark the event course with cones, H-frame yard signs, or similar materials, and such markers must have NPS’s prior written approval. The markers must also be removed within 4 hours following the event. Park resources, facilities, and similar features such as trees, pavement, and fencing, will not be marked or defaced by paint, chalk or similar substances in any way. Any such defacement will be considered damage to park resources.
Permittees hosting run/bicycle events with over 300 participants that require road closures must purchase public liability insurance from a responsible United States company with a minimum of $1 million per person for any one claim and an aggregate of $3 million for any number of claims arising from any one incident. The United States of America will be included as an additional named insured on all such policies and must provide the NPS with a copy of the insurance rider no less than one (1) week before event day.
Permittees must reimburse the NPS and the USPP for any costs it incurred to support these activities.
The NPS will not perform any specific roadway maintenance to support events beyond its regular routine maintenance.
The NPS may cancel, reschedule or both, any permitted event that uses the park’s turf areas, equipment or both due to inclement weather and likely damage to park resources. The NPS will give the Permittee written notice if it cancels or reschedules an event at least 24 hours before the event begins.
The Permittee, and all participants authorized, must comply with all permit conditions as well as with NPS staff and USPP directions.
The Permittee must leave the area in the same, or substantially similar, condition as it was before the authorized activities. The Permittee must remove all trash and debris from the permitted activity by the time stated on the permits. The Permittee will pay any cost the NPS incurs for cleanup, trash removal or both when this permitted activity ends.
According to Special Events Health, Medical and Safety Planning Guidelines, the Permittee must provide emergency medical services and will coordinate event onsite Ambulance or EMT services. The Ambulance or EMT services must be licensed under appropriate city, state, county or federal guidelines.
The Permittee must make separate reservations to use park picnic areas on www.recreation.gov from April through November; and
All vehicles must park in designated areas. Driving or parking on the grass is not allowed unless authorized by the Superintendent or designee. Event plans must include parking plans for buses and cars, loading, and unloading.
Bicycle races are limited to Greenbelt Park roads.
Running races are limited to Anacostia Park, Greenbelt Park, Kenilworth Park and Fort Washington Park.
To minimize impacts to visitor use, a maximum of two bicycle or foot race events can occur per month at Greenbelt Park, Anacostia Park, Kenilworth Park, and Fort Washington Parks.
No competitive bicycle or foot race events are permitted on park trails.
Races are not permitted Memorial Day to Labor Day due to heat and humidity. Races must commence by 8:00am and be completed by 9:30 am.
Running races are limited to 3,000 competitors. Bicycle races are limited to 300 competitors.
§2.12 Audio Disturbances:
(a)(2) Operating a chainsaw in developed areas.
(a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine is prohibited unless permitted.
(a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event is allowed under a permit only 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 is prohibited.
The use of balloons (e.g., helium, hot air and water balloons) are prohibited unless authorized in writing by the Superintendent or his/her designated representative, for use as part of scientific or research purposes.
(c)(1) Owners of downed aircraft shall remove the aircraft and all component parts by land-based means and in accordance with procedures established by the Superintendent.
§2.35 (a)(3)(i) Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances:
The use, sale, or possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all areas of the park except in designated areas of approved concessions contracted by the NPS and assigned by the Superintendent or within limited and clearly designated areas if authorized under a specific permit issued by the Superintendent.
§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, §2.52, and §7.96(h)(k)
§2.38 Explosives:
(a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
(b) Use or possess fireworks
§2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net
§2.5 Research activities and specimen collection (Take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals)
§2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
§2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views
§2.52(c) Sale or distribution of printer matter that is not solely commercial advertising
§2.60(b) Livestock use
§2.61(a) Residing on federal lands is not permitted, except in designated campgrounds or in short term (less than 21 days) support of park administrative and programmatic activities
§2.62 Memorialization:
(a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from Director; erection of monuments in the District of Columbia requires an Act of Congress)
(b) Scattering ashes from human or pet cremation is prohibited
§3.3 Use of a vessel
§4.11(a) Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight and size limits
§5.1 Advertisements (Display, posting or distribution.)
§5.2(b) Sale of intoxicants on private lands.
§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).
§5.6(c), 7.96(f) 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.
§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, boat docks, path, structure, etc.
§6.9(a) Operation of a solid waste disposal site
Determination: The use of a permit system by the NPS and restricting activities is the methods used to protect park resources, provide for public safety, and ensure a high-quality experience by park visitors.
III. General Regulations
36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
(a)(1) The use of nets or traps is prohibited, unless approved by Superintendent for educational or interpretive purposes.
(a)(2) Burial of animals is prohibited in the park. Large farm and domestic animals must be removed from parklands for disposal.
(a)(4) Gathering of wood, including dead wood on the ground, and/or other plant products for use as fuel for fires or for personal use is prohibited except for Greenbelt Park where a small amount of wood may be gathered for fire pits. Only registered campers in the Greenbelt Park Campground may collect wood to use as firewood. The wood must be:
Dead and down and be less than 6 inches in diameter.
Collected to use and consume in the park during a stay with a valid permit.
(a)(5) Walking on, climbing, entering, ascending, descending, or traversing an archeological or cultural resource, monument, or statue is prohibited, specifically Civil War earthworks, fortifications, and the Endicott Batteries, except for the purposes of monitoring or investigating their condition as authorized by the Superintendent.
(a)(6) The unauthorized collection of natural, historic or cultural artifacts is strictly prohibited.
(b) Leaving a trail or walkway as a shortcut to other trails or destinations is prohibited.
(c)(1) The following natural items may be gathered in amounts of less than one quart for personal use or consumption:
Blueberries
Blackberries
Grapes
Paw-paws
Raspberries
Walnuts
Mushrooms may not be gathered for personal use. Also, apples cannot be collected for personal use at Oxon Hill Farm.
(c)(2)(ii) The above (c)(1) natural products may be gathered at the following locations:
Anacostia Park
Fort Circle Parks (Civil War Defenses of Washington)
Fort Foote
Fort Washington Park
Greenbelt Park
Oxon Cove Park
Piscataway Park
(c)(3) Sampling of surface waters (open water column of creeks and streams) or small amounts of soil or sediment may occur as part of educational or research projects after notifying the Superintendent's Office. Such sampling may be approved when it has been determined that sampling can be accomplished in a safe manner and such that no adverse impact occurs to park resources or property.
(c)(4) The collection of natural geologic, or soil features, including fossils or castings, is prohibited.
(b) Hiking or pedestrian traffic is restricted to the trail(s) or walkway(s) listed in 36 CFR §1.5 of this document and athletic fields.
Determination: These restrictions are needed to protect cultural resources, reduce erosion, and ensure the sustainability of the park’s natural resources.
36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION
(b)(1) Hunting is not permitted on any park property.
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures: Hunters that have permits for waterfowl hunting in Maryland waters and are launching or removing boats from ramps in Piscataway Park.
(e) The use of artificial light for the purpose of viewing wildlife is prohibited, except for authorized research projects.
Determination: These restrictions are intended to help reduce the incidences of illegal hunting.
36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING
(a)Fishing is permitted throughout NACE and requires a fishing license from the corresponding state jurisdiction except for the following locations: Fort Washington Marina and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, off the Kenilworth Marsh River Trail, Kenilworth Marsh Boardwalk and Kingman Lake.
(d)(7) Shellfish shall not be collected or removed from park waters.
(d)(8) Fishing from bridges and docks is allowed with appropriate license, and in accordance with state laws and regulations.
Determination: These restrictions are needed to prevent conflicts with other user groups, ensure public safety, and minimize impacts to the park’s natural resources.
36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS
(a)(1)(i) & (ii) Visitors may possess and carry firearms within National Capital Parks-East 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. Thus, firearms are prohibited in a federal facility including park visitor centers, Maintenance Facilities, and the National Capital Parks-East headquarters and any other building owned or leased by the National Park Service including those operated by park partners, lessees, and concessionaires (see 18 U.S.C. 930 for further guidance).
Federal law makes possession of firearms in national parks subject to local and state firearms laws. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park.
A permit is required to possess, carry or use a weapon, trap or net. The Superintendent will only issue a permit to use, carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net under the following conditions:
As part of an approved educational, interpretive, research, or inventory and monitoring program (e.g., historic weapons demonstrations, or nets and traps for resource management).
While in transit to the Piscataway Park boat launch areas (Fort Washington Marina, Farmington Landing (aka Wharf Road) and Marshall Hall) to access licensed hunting blind sites (in accordance with State law) as long as the firearms are dismantled, and ammunition is kept separate.
As part of resources management mitigation of invasive or problem animals.
Other weapons, traps and nets as defined under 36 CFR 1.4 will require a permit.
Determination: The prohibition on weapons is needed for public safety. The prohibition on nets and traps is needed to help prevent the illegal removal of park resources.
36 CFR §2.5 – RESEARCH SPECIMENS
(a) Taking plants, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals is prohibited except in accordance with other regulations of Chapter I of 36 CFR or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a specimen collection permit issued by the Superintendent or his/her designated representative. The permittee must have the permit in their possession while collecting within the federally owned lands of the park.
36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE
(a) Camping is allowed in the following designated sites or areas and is subject to the following established conditions:
Camping or overnight parking is prohibited upon lands administered by National Capital Parks–East except at the Greenbelt Park Campground by permit.
Greenbelt Park
With a current paid reservation.
Campground length of stay is limited to 14 days in a row, and/or 28 days for the entire year.
Camping is allowed only in designated sites by permit and pursuant to established park campground regulations.
No more than six (6) people may occupy a single campsite.
No more than one primary camping unit (motor home, pop-up, camping, camper van, etc.), three secondary units (tent), and one other vehicle may occupy a campsite at any given time.
All vehicles, campers or trailers must remain on paved areas. Driving or parking on grass or dirt surfaces is not authorized.
Campground checkout is at 12:00 noon.
Quiet hours are established from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Motorized generators may not be operated within the established quiet hours.
The minimum age of any camper is 18 years of age unless accompanied by an adult or unless a legal guardian provides a letter of permission. This letter must state the name of the minor that has permission to camp, contact name, and the phone number of the legal guardian.
Pets are permitted but must be on a leash of (6) feet or less.
(b)(7) Connecting to a utility system is prohibited unless permission is granted in a special use permit.
(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect as designated below:
Food, animal bait, lawfully taken wildlife, and equipment used to cook, or store food must be kept in a hard-sided locker, vehicle, or camper when not in immediate use, day or night.
(e) Firewood. Only registered campers in the Greenbelt Park Campground may collect wood to use as firewood. The wood must be:
Dead and down and be less than 6 inches in diameter.
Collected to use and consume in the park during a stay with a valid permit.
Determination: The camping restrictions are in place to minimize impacts to park resources and to prevent the attraction of nuisance animals.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING
Picnicking is permitted in designated areas in section II. 36 CFR §1.6 – Activities that Require a Permit of this document.
Conditions for Picnicking:
All Areas:
Privately owned propane grills are prohibited.
Trash shall be picked up and disposed of properly in trash receptacles.
Picnic areas are available to the public on a first-come first-serve basis except as listed in section II, items requiring a permit.
The use of tents, canopies or shelters by picnickers will only be allowed if they are free standing, self-supporting, weighted and placed in a manner that will not restrict a view shed and allow other park visitors access to all public areas. Use of tents, tarps, or shelters that are wholly or partially supported by using stakes and/or guy lines are prohibited.
Greenbelt Park:
Sweetgum Picnic area is first-come first-serve.
Holly and Laurel picnic areas is by permit only.
Anacostia Park:
Nicholson Street Area is first-come first-serve. Picnicking in North Field, Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC), and River Terrace Picnic Area is by permit only.
Determination: The restrictions for picnicking is required to manage visitor use and to minimize conflicts among park users.
36 CFR §2.12 – AUDIO DISTURBANCES
(a)(2) Operating a power saw in developed areas is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(a)(4) Operating a public address system is prohibited, except in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.
Any sound amplification equipment must not unreasonably disturb nonparticipating persons or others in the vicinity of the area.
Sound systems and permitted events should follow established quiet hours for park areas, which are generally 10:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.
Amplified sound can be used for permitted events, including DJ's and large sound systems at Parkland, Shepherd Parkway, Capitol Hill Parks, Fort Dupont Theatre and in designated areas at Fort Washington and Anacostia Park, specifically within Anacostia Park Field 1, Field 6, and Field 7, and River Terrace.
Determination: These restrictions on noise are needed to provide for the quiet and enjoyment of all park visitors and nearby park neighbors.
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:
Designated Areas:
Fires are allowed in the following established areas:
Anacostia Park
Picnic areas that have grills
Anacostia Park
River Terrace Picnic Area at grills
Kenilworth Park
Picnic areas that have grills
Fort Dupont
Randle Circle Picnic Area at grills
Fort Dupont
Ridge Picnic Area at grills
Fort Dupont
Lanham Estates Picnic Area at grills
Fort Foote
Picnic Area at grills
Fort Washington
Picnic Areas at grills
Greenbelt Park
Picnic Areas, Campground & Campfire Circle
Oxon Hill Farm
Picnic Area at grills
Piscataway Park
Saylor Grove, National Colonial Farm at grills
Piscataway Park
Marshall Hall at grills
Open fires are prohibited without the advanced approval of the Superintendent, except at Greenbelt Park where open fires are permitted with the attendance of a National Park Service staff member or campground host.
During very hot, dry weather conditions, strong winds, and extreme fire danger days or by order of the Superintendent, fires of any type may be banned within the park.
Fire Receptacles Allowed:
Government provided fire grates or visitor provided portable non-combustible grills.
Open fires in the Sweetgum, Holly and Laurel picnic areas are permitted if utilizing the park's elevated cooking grills.
Open fires in the campground are restricted to the campfire rings placed in each camp site.
Established Conditions for Fires:
During dry conditions and high fire danger periods, the park may prohibit fires.
A person shall always attend the fire.
Fires shall be extinguished to a level that is cool to the touch before leaving.
Charcoal and other fire remains must be cooled and safely disposed of in a noncombustible container and may not be extinguished or discarded by dumping it on any ground surface.
(a)(2) The following restrictions are in effect for the use of stoves or lanterns:
Only in designated campgrounds and picnic areas
Stoves shall not be operated on picnic tables
(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
It is prohibited to extinguish charcoal fires by spreading on any ground surface or dumping in any body of water. It is the responsibility of the user to extinguish the fire and remove all fire by-products from the park upon completion of use.
(c) During periods of high fire danger, the following areas of the park are closed to the lighting or maintaining of a fire.
Greenbelt: Park Campground and picnic areas.
Determination: These restrictions are needed to help minimize the risk of wildfires in the park.
36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE
(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is prohibited.
(a)(5) Bathing or washing food, clothing, dishes, or other property at public water outlets, fixtures, or pools is prohibited, except at the following outlets, fixtures, or pools designated for such purposes:
Utility sinks in Greenbelt Park Campground comfort stations may be used by registered campers for washing food and dishes.
Greenbelt Park Campground shower facilities may be used by registered campers for bathing.
(a)(7) Disposing of fish remains on land or in waters within 200 feet of boat docks or designated swimming beaches or within developed areas is prohibited.
(a)(8) In developed areas, the disposal of human body waste is prohibited, except at designated locations or fixtures provided for that purpose.
(b) The Superintendent may establish conditions concerning the disposal, containerization, or carry-out of human body waste under the following conditions:
1. Defective sanitation systems:
If upon inspection, any water system or sewage disposal system is found by the inspecting officer to be in non-conformance with applicable State and county standards, the Superintendent will send to the ostensible owner and/or the occupant of such property notification via email or certified mail specifying what steps must be taken to achieve compliance.
If after one year has elapsed from the mailing of such written notice the deficiency has not been corrected, such deficiency shall constitute a violation of this regulation and shall be the basis for action for the vacating of the premises.
2. All vessels moored at NPS facilities shall maintain operable waste facilities of adequate size as determined by U.S. Coast Guard or local regulations.
All marinas and boat clubs shall maintain or have in reasonable proximity in an operable condition, pump-out units for the disposal of sewage from boats.
Determination: The various requirements in this section are needed to help ensure sanitary conditions in the park and to prevent the introduction of pollutants into park and neighboring waters.
36 CFR §2.15 – PETS
Domestic pets are only authorized in open air, outdoor, recreational areas of parks.
Pets must be restrained, in a pet carrier or leashed, and accompanied at all times while in the park.
Leashes will be no longer than 6 feet. The leash shall be held by a person capable of managing the pet.
Animals that do not meet the definition of a domestic pet are not allowed in parks, without specific authorization as provided by a special use permit.
Further restrictions on pets/animals may be defined within special use permits issued for events.
Note: This section on pets does not apply to service animals, and dogs used by law enforcement in the performance of their duties.
(a)(1) Possessing pets in all visitor centers, historic homes, administrative buildings, maintenance facilities, and Oxon Hill Farm is prohibited.
(a)(3) Leaving a pet unattended and tied to an object is prohibited.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
Solid pet waste must be collected and disposed of by placing in a trash receptacle.
Determination: the restrictions on pets are needed to prevent unwanted interactions with other visitors and pets and animals at Oxon Hill Park. Pet waste must be cleaned up in order to maintain sanitary conditions in the park.
36 CFR §2.54 – HORSES and PACK ANIMALS
(b) Horseback riding is prohibited outside of the following trails, routes or areas.
Formal trails in Piscataway Park
Trails in National Colonial Farm, Piscataway Park (excluding Pumpkin Ash Boardwalk)
Established horse trails within Greenbelt Park
Perimeter Trail
(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
Animals must stay on trails at all times.
Determination: Horses are limited to designated trails in order to minimize adverse interactions with other visitors and to limit the areas of potential trail erosion caused by the horses.
36 CFR §2.17 – AIRCRAFT and AIR DELIVERY
(a)(1) Operating or using aircraft on lands or waters other than at locations designated pursuant to §7.96 is prohibited.
Take-offs and landings of all fixed wing, rotary, ultralight, and balloon aircraft are prohibited except under the following conditions:
1. They occur at the United States Park Police Aviation Facility in Anacostia Park.
2. Aircraft are involved in emergency operations such as fire suppression, law enforcement, search and rescue, medical transport, or resource monitoring/management.
3. All training exercises involving the use of aircraft require the written permission of the Superintendent. This includes law enforcement and military training exercises.
4. Hand-gliding is prohibited at all locations.
(a)(3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means is prohibited, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
Determination: Aircraft can have significant safety and visitor experience impacts on park users. Further, the air space in the Washington DC area is extremely limited for national security reasons. These restrictions are needed to address both of these concerns.
36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES
Winter activities such as walking, sliding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing are permitted on park trails with a sufficient snow cover.
Winter activities are prohibited on snow emergency routes and closed park roads unless otherwise designated.
(a) Skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, inner-tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter sports are prohibited on park roads and in parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic.
At Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, ice-skating, walking, or sliding on ice is prohibited throughout the entire park. (Res. 343, Section G).
Determination: Winter activities on roads and parking areas could result in accidents with cars and snow removal equipment and the restriction will help to minimize such situations. Activities at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are necessary as the safety of the ice on the water bodies is not monitored and its depth can vary substantially in the area.
36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES
Using roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices is prohibited, except in the following designated areas:
All paved trails
The Washington Drive circle in Fort Washington Park (Res. 404M).
The purpose of the Anacostia Skating Pavilion is to be a recreational area for only roller skates and in-line skates. (Res. 343, Section E) The Anacostia Skate Pavilion cannot be permitted and any activities that are conducted in the Skating Pavilion shall not impede skating in the Anacostia Skating Pavilion at any time.
Determination: The restrictions are intended to minimize adverse interactions with motor vehicles and to limit conflicts among various park user groups.
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING(a)
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
Definitions: Smoking is defined as the lighting of a smoking apparatus including, but not limited to, cigars, cigarettes, pipes, or electronic nicotine delivery systems.
All buildings, structures, or facilities, including Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion, picnic pavilions, comfort stations, government vehicles and boats, are closed to smoking.
Smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of any building entrance.
Smokers in outside areas must dispose of fully extinguished smoking materials in proper trash containers.
The Superintendent may ban smoking in park areas during periods of high fire danger.
Smoking is prohibited within 500 feet of fuel storage.
Determination: Smoking limitations are needed to prevent smoke from affecting visitors and employees and to minimize the risk of fire.
36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY
(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours is prohibited, except in the following locations or under the following conditions:
Under conditions established in a permit, or contract with park lessee or concessionaire.
Disabled vehicles or vessels may be temporarily left in parking lots, anchored, docked or in another safe area after notification and approval of the Superintendent or United States Park Police Commander in the absence of a Superintendent.
At Fort Dupont Community Gardens where plot holders have a permitted plot, personal possessions such as gardens implements and lawn furniture, may be there as long as the permit holder has an active permit.
Determination: Property restrictions area needed to ensure that the park does not become cluttered and unsightly with unwanted property as this will adversely affect the quality of the visitor experience and create unsafe conditions.
36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATION FEES
(b) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
Daily Site Use Fee Areas:
Picnic Areas
Recreational Fields
Camping
Determination: The fees generated at these sites are used to maintain these and other park areas. Further, permitting at these sites ensure that there are no conflicts between user groups and that each area is only used by one group at a time.
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:
The use, sale, or possession of alcoholic beverages in prohibited in all areas of the park, except in designated areas of approved concessions/lessee contracted by the government and assigned by the Superintendent or within limited and clearly designated areas if authorized under a specific permit issued by the Superintendent.
Campsites at Greenbelt Park
Determination: Alcohol restrictions for all other park areas are needed as they are not closely monitored, and alcohol use may lead to conflicts within and among visitor user groups.
36 CFR §2.37 – NONCOMMERCIAL SOLICITING
Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions or a permit that has been issued under §2.50, §2.51, or §2.52.
36 CFR §2.38 – EXPLOSIVES
(a) Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials is prohibited with the exception of materials used for interpretive demonstrations or as excepted pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
(b) Using or possessing fireworks and firecrackers is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit or in designated areas under such conditions as the superintendent may establish, and in accordance with state law.
36 CFR §2.52 -- SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER
(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2) (see above) when the Superintendent has issued a permit.
36 CFR §2.60 – LIVESTOCK USE AND AGRICULTURE
(a) The herding, driving, pasturing, ministered by National Capital Parks –East is prohibited, except at the following locations and when conducted as a necessary and integral part of an educational or recreational activity or required in order to maintain a historic scene:
Oxon Hill Farm at Oxon Cove Park.
National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park.
Other areas permitted for this purpose in Piscataway Park under special use permits.
The United States Park Police stables at Fort Dupont.
Determination: In the designated areas, grazing has been determined to be consistent with the park’s purpose for those specific areas.
36 CFR §2.61 – RESIDING ON FEDERAL LANDS
(a) Residing in park areas, other than on privately owned lands, is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit lease, contract, or agreement.
“Liveaboards” on vessels moored at NPS marinas are prohibited. The NPS will consider a “liveaboard” as a person who stays overnight on board a vessel moored at the marina for four (4) or more nights in any seven (7) day period and more than three (3) occasions in any twelve (12) month calendar period.
36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION
(a) The installation of a monument, memorial, tablet, structure, or other commemorative installation in a park area without the authorization of the Director is prohibited.
(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
36 CFR §3.6 – BOATING OPERATIONS
(a)(2) Launching or operating a vessel is prohibited, except at one of the following launch sites:
Fort Washington Marina
James Creek Marina
Marshall Hall
Farmington Landing
Anacostia Park Boat Ramp
(a)(4) Vessels must meet the length, width, or horsepower conditions outlined in §1.5 of this document.
Determination: Limiting boat launching to the designated areas will help to prevent shoreline erosion and conflicts with other park user groups.
36 CFR §3.14 REMOVING A SUNKEN, GROUNDED, OR DISABLED VESSEL
(a) The removal of a vessel and its cargo must be done in accordance with the following established procedures:
Owners must establish a reasonable date by which the vessel removal operations must be complete.
Determine times and means of access to and from the vessel
Specify the manner and method of removal.
Determination: The restrictions will help to minimize any potential adverse impacts to park resources and facilities. They will also help to minimize conflicts with other park users.
36 CFR §4.10 – TRAVEL ON PARK ROADS AND ROUTES
(a) Park roads, open for travel by motor vehicle are those indicated below within NPS lands.
Designated Park Roads: Baltimore Washington Parkway; Greenbelt Park-Park Central Road and parking areas; Suitland Parkway; Anacostia Drive and parking areas; Kenilworth Park access road and parking areas; Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens access road and parking areas; Fort Place; Fort Davis Drive and parking areas; Fort Dupont Drive and parking areas; Fort Foote Road; Oxon Hill Park parking areas; Fort Washington Road and parking areas; Warburton Road; Wharf Road; and Marshall Hall Road.
Park roads may be closed during snow events. These roadways include all major commuter corridors routes and adjacent roads that need to be cleared for emergency vehicles without interference. The presence of recreational users for winter activities in closed areas present hazardous situations for both visitors and operators clearing roadways. All vehicles on these roads during a declared snow emergency are subject to immediate towing without notification.
(b) Routes and areas for off-road vehicle use are prohibited.
(c)(1) Operating a motor vehicle not equipped with pneumatic tires is prohibited.
Determination: Park roads may need to be closed for snow removal operations and other emergencies to ensure safe operations for employees and visitors. Off-road vehicle use is prohibited in order to prevent serious impacts to park resources. Pneumatic tires are required on motor vehicles to ensure there is no damage to park roads.
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:
Access to park roads is limited to vehicles not exceeding load, weight and size restrictions. Vehicles may not exceed 10,000-pound gross axle weight unless permitted. All such requests, other than emergency responses, require an application to the NPS for a permit.
Determination: Limiting vehicle weight will aid greatly in maximizing the life cycle of the road surface which was designed as a scenic drive for cars. Also, this restriction will help to minimize conflicts with other motor vehicle operators and help to ensure a pleasant driving experience for others.
36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS
(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
Baltimore Washington Parkway. North of Route 450 to north boundary of parkway: 55 mph. South of Route 450: 45 mph
Greenbelt Park. Park Central Road: 25 mph; other park roads:15mph
Suitland Parkway: 50 mph
Pennsylvania Avenue to Forestville Road: 45 mph (East and Westbound)
Westbound Forestville Road to Branch Avenue: 50 mph
Westbound Branch Avenue to Southern Avenue: 45 mph
Eastbound Southern Avenue to Naylor Road: 45 mph
Eastbound Naylor Road to Forestville Road: 50 mph
Fort Davis Drive: 25 mph
Fort Dupont Drive: 25 mph
Anacostia Drive: 20 mph
Fort Washington Road: 15 mph
Warburton Road: 15 mph
Wharf Road: 25 mph
Marshall Hall Road: 30 mph
Kenilworth Park Access Road: 20 mph
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Access Road: 10 mph
Determination: These speed limits will help to ensure a safe driving experience for all drivers and minimize the chances for crashes that could result in injuries/deaths and damage to vehicles, facilities and resources. The limits are also based on the condition of the roads.
36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES
(a) The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas, and on routes designated for bicycle use. Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are listed in §1.5 of this document.
Bicycles are allowed on all park roads, except Suitland Parkway and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, and on park trails specifically designated for bicycles.
Bicycles are allowed on the following park trails:
Anacostia River Trail
Fort Circle Parks (Civil War Defenses of Washington) Hiker Biker Trail
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Access trail to Anacostia River Trail.
Bicycles are permitted on sidewalks; however, bicycle users must walk their bicycles through trails around the fort at Fort Washington.
Bicycles are not allowed in the following areas:
All historic fort earthworks in Civil War Defenses sites, and other fortifications or historic landscape features.
Foot and nature trails and trails designated as part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.
Adjacent pond areas at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
Greenbelt Park: the 300-acre natural area located on the eastern side of the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. Bicycles are only permitted on paved roads open to motor vehicles in Greenbelt Park.
All unpaved trails, and off-trail and off-road areas.
Commercial or guided bicycle groups are not permitted in any 36 CFR 7.96 restricted area.
Bicycles should be parked in the bicycle racks when available.
Bicycles must be operated at speeds reasonable for existing conditions. Speed should not exceed 15-mph on paved multi-use recreation trails or 25-mph on paved roadways.
Bicyclists must adhere to protective equipment requirements and regulations set by the state for which they are cycling in (i.e., Maryland the District of Columbia).
E-bikes are allowed 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. Class 3 bikes are prohibited. Class 3 e-bike means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the bicycle reaches 28 miles per hour.
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 National Capital Parks-East 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.
Definition: 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 h.p.)
Determination: Bicycle restrictions serve to minimize conflicts with other user groups and to minimize erosion on trails.
36 CFR §5.1 – ADVERTISEMENTS
Commercial notices or advertisements shall not be displayed, posted, or distributed on federally owned or controlled lands within a park area unless prior written permission has been given by the Superintendent.
36 CFR §5.3 – BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as such may be specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited.
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 prohibited and requires permission or a permit from the Superintendent.
Taxis, ride share vehicles, and vans such as SuperShuttle are allowed on Baltimore-Washington Parkways, Suitland Parkway, and other roads within National Capital Parks-East.
Determination: This restriction helps to minimize conflicts with other drivers and maximize the life cycle of the road surface.
36 CFR §5.7 – CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS OR OTHER FACILITIES
Such activities are prohibited, except in accordance with the provisions of a valid permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States.
