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National Mall and Memorial Parks Superintendent's Compendium
Current Version Approved by Superintendent
1/13/2026
INTRODUCTION
In accordance with applicable law and policy, and pursuant to the delegated authorities provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter I (“36 CFR”), the following compendium actions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service (NPS) within the boundaries of National Mall and Memorial Parks (the “park” as defined below). This document is the written compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the Superintendent’s legal authority and discretion (collectively, “compendium actions”), as required by 36 CFR 1.7(b)and as authorized by the specific regulations referenced herein. Violating any provision in this Compendium may result in criminal penalties under 36 CFR 1.3.
In addition, United States Park Police (USPP) officers enforce District of Columbia (DC) law within the park pursuant to D.C. Code 5-201. These laws include, for example, D.C. Code 22–1321. Disorderly conduct.
The compendium actions in this document apply in addition to all other laws that apply to lands and waters administered by the NPS within the boundaries of the park. These include:
Regulations in 36 CFR and other CFR titles such as Title 43, which contains regulations that apply on public lands administered by the Department of the Interior. The current version of the CFR can be found at www.ecfr.gov. Click on “Title 36” and then “Chapter 1” to access 36 CFR.
Applicable regulations include regulations in 36 CFR 7.96, which are special regulations that apply to park areas administered by the NPS in the National Capital Region, including the park.
Statutes codified in U.S. Code, in particular provisions in Titles 16 and 54.
This Compendium is organized by the sections in 36 CFR that give the Superintendent discretionary authority to take the compendium action. Written determinations that explain why each compendium action is necessary are available upon request. Please contact the Park Superintendent if you have any questions or comments about the Superintendent’s Compendium. Additional information about park management is available on the park website at www.nps.gov/nama/learn/management.
DEFINITIONS
NPS regulations in 36 CFR 1.4 define certain terms that are used in 36 CFR. Other sections in 36 CFR define terms that are used in those sections. To the extent any terms defined in 36 CFR or other regulations are used in this Compendium, those definitions apply. If any terms defined in 36 CFR 7.96 conflict with definitions in other portions of 36 CFR, the definitions in 36 CFR 7.96 control. In addition to terms defined in 36 CFR and other regulations, the following terms used in this Compendium are defined as follows:
CFR Restricted Areas means those locations identified in 36 CFR 7.96(g)(3)(i) and (ii), except for the sidewalks along Constitution Avenue NW and Henry Bacon Drive NW.
Federal building means a building used by the NPS for administrative purposes.
Memorial Restricted Areas means CFR Restricted Areas and those areas identified on the park website at https://go.nps.gov/restrictedareas, including:
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial with the exception of the Prologue Room.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial’s Stone of Hope area and plaza.
Korean War Veterans Memorial’s plaza area.
World War I Memorial’s Pershing Memorial plaza area and steps west of the Peace Fountain.
World War II Memorial’s Freedom Wall Plaza, Field of Gold Stars, and the Circle of Remembrance (Contemplative Area).
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial’s capitol dome view corridor, turf areas, and the memorial core plaza area.
National Mall and Memorial Parks or park means an administrative unit of the NPS that manages approximately 1,000 acres of federal park land in DC including the National Mall, Washington Monument, East and West Potomac Parks, as well as circles, squares, and other park areas generally spanning from the Potomac River and Rock Creek Park on the west, Florida Avenue NW on the north, and 2nd Street NE on the east. There are many unique monuments, memorials, and other locations within the park, including:
Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument
Constitution Gardens
Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
Ford's Theatre National Historic Site
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
National Capital Parks - Central (includes uptown parks)
National Mall
Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Washington Monument
World War I Memorial
World War II Memorial
American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
African American Civil War Memorial
DC War Memorial
East Potomac Park
George Mason Memorial
German-American Friendship Garden
Holodomor Memorial
Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II Memorial
Lockkeeper’s House
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
Old Post Office Tower
Tidal Basin
Titanic Memorial
U.S. Navy Memorial
Victims of Communism Memorial
West Potomac Park
Pedicab means a bicycle with two rear wheels and one front wheel designed to be ridden by one person and to transport passengers on attached rear seats.
Personal mobility device means as a motorized propulsion device that is designed to transport only one person that (i) weighs 75 pounds or more; or (ii) is a self-balancing, as defined in DC Code § 50–2201.02.(13)(A). Personal mobility devices include Segways and scooters.
Scooter means a two-, three- or four-wheeled motorized propulsion device that a person stands upon to ride.
Uncrewed aircraft and Uncrewed Aircraft System have the meanings given to them in NPS Reference Manual #60: Aviation Management, Chapter 12.
SECTION 1: VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITATIONS AND CLOSURES.
Authority: 36 CFR 1.5(a)(1)-(2)
Visiting Hours for Outdoor Areas. Outdoor areas within the park are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week unless otherwise noted.
Visiting Hours for Indoor Areas. Indoor sites and facilities within the park are open to public entry at the specified times below. Dates and times listed are approximate and are dependent on weather, staffing, and funding levels, as well as unforeseen circumstances. Current hours of operation or other specific site information may be obtained by visiting the sites listed below or the NAMA website at https://www.nps.gov/nama; calling (202) 426-6841 (except where otherwise specified); or by writing to the Superintendent, National Mall and Memorial Parks, 1100 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, DC 20242.
Washington Monument: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., except July 4 and December 25. The Washington Monument is closed one day each month for routine maintenance. Tickets are required for entry and are limited based on the maximum capacity of indoor areas within the Monument. Tickets are available at the Washington Monument Lodge starting at 8:45 a.m. and online at www.recreation.gov.
Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site: 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC, 20004. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., except Thanksgiving and December 25. The site is operated in partnership with Ford’s Theatre Society and access may be limited during performances. Phone: (202) 426-6924.
Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument: 144 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC, 20002. Open 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday, except Thanksgiving and December 25. In March, Women’s History Month, the monument is open five days a week from Wednesday through Sunday.
Lockkeeper’s House: Constitution Avenue NW and 17th Street NW. Generally open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
U.S. Park Police Horse Stables Education Center: 1964 Independence Ave SW. Generally open to the public Thursday - Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m..
National Mall and Memorial Parks Headquarters: 1100 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, DC, 20242. This facility is not open to the public. Visitation by appointment only is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. Phone: (202) 245-4660.
Washington Monument. The interior staircase is closed to public access. On limited occasions, the Superintendent may authorize stair walkdowns that support the operations and mission of the NPS. Visitors may be subject to security screening before entering indoor areas within the Monument and must comply with the terms and conditions of tickets issued for entry.
Roofs and interior understructures. The roofs and interior understructures of buildings within Memorial Restricted Areas are closed to public access. On limited occasions, the Superintendent may authorize access to roofs and interior understructures for specific activities that support the operations and mission of the NPS.
East Potomac Park. Closed between the entry and exit gates from 1:00 a.m. until 5:00 a.m. daily to all vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic.Hains Point, along Ohio Drive SW from the eastern entry gate to the western exit gate at the intersection of Ohio and Buckeye Drives SW, may close to vehicle traffic during times of high tides, flooding, snow emergencies, permitted special events, or as needed to address or mitigate temporary public safety issues as determined by the USPP. These areas may be closed to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non-motorized vehicles as determined by the NPS or USPP.
Temporary Closures.
Emergencies. Buildings and public spaces, including the Washington Monument, may close for high winds, weather conditions, mechanical failure, or other emergency situations.
Non-emergencies. Buildings and public spaces also may close as a result of permitted activities, resource management and protection, public safety concerns, roadwork or other maintenance, and other non-emergency situations. Fences or signage may be used to indicate the closure, and a notification or Record of Determination will be posted on the park website.
USPP Horse Stables Education Center and the Lockkeeper’s House. Closed to permitted activities, except that the NPS may sponsor no more than four (4) special events per year at each location, and solely in partnership with the park’s official non-profit partner, the Trust for the National Mall, to educate the public about the partnership and to support stewardship of the sites.
Memorial Restricted Areas. The following activities are prohibited in Memorial Restricted Areas:
Eating or drinking, except water.
Filming or photography involving a tripod or other supporting structures.
Filming and photography that impedes public access and enjoyment of the area.
Filming or photography (including the use of phone or portable electronic device) in the Washington Monument security screening area.
Skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding.
Conducting a wreath or flower laying ceremony without a permit. Individuals may leave wreaths or flowers without a permit when not part of a ceremony. Wreaths left at memorials will remain in place no longer than one week and will be removed earlier if greenery and flowers are wilted or if severe weather or other safety conditions arise.
Closed to permitted activities, except for specific national celebration events identified in 36 CFR 7.96(g)(4)(ii) and America250 events referred to in 36 CFR 7.96(g)(8). America250 events have priority over all other special event permitting.
Sound amplification unless approved by the Superintendent in writing, including via permit.
Honor guard or cordons must follow the same rules as the public unless their activities are part of a permitted event, in which case they must adhere to permit conditions and requirements.
Carrying or displaying ceremonial weapons, except by authorized individuals performing official duties within Military District of Washington, DC.
Jogging, dancing, singing, climbing, or exercise-type activities, except as specified under a permit.
Federal Buildings.
The following Federal buildings are closed to the public during non-business hours or when unstaffed:
The building complex located at 1100 Ohio Dr. SW, Washington, DC 20242 to include the property north of Ohio Dr. SW and west of Buckeye Dr. SW and adjacent parking lots to include the National Mall and Memorial Park Headquarters.
East Potomac Maintenance Yard.
Buckeye Building.
National Capital Regional Office.
USPP Headquarters.
USPP Central District Office.
Federal buildings not identified above are closed to the public at all times including, but not limited to, Survey Lodge Ranger Station at 1601 Independence Ave SW; and park offices and the adjacent parking lot within the compound at 900 Ohio Drive SW.
Meetings in Federal buildings are by appointment only, with the exception of the Permits Office for the purposes of submitting permit applications.
Possession of the items listed in Appendix A is prohibited within all Federal buildings and in all Memorial Restricted Areas.
Noise. Making an unreasonably loud noise between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. that is likely to annoy or disturb one or more other persons in their residences is prohibited. Amplified sound is prohibited at John Marshall Park when the United States District Court – District of Columbia at the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Court House is in session.
Vehicle Maintenance or Repair. Maintenance, repair (except for emergencies), washing, and waxing of any vehicle are prohibited.
Adventure activities. Climbing, rappelling, BASE jumping, bungee jumping, slacklining, parasailing, wind boarding, and gliding are prohibited.
Pet Memorializatio The scattering of pet ashes from cremation or any other pet remains is prohibited.
Use of Trees. Installing, attaching, or using any fixed tensioned ropes or webbing (e.g., slacklines) and other devices to trees and hanging items including swings and hammocks from trees is prohibited.
Ice skating. Ice skating is prohibited except on Constitution Gardens Lake when posted.
Kites. Flying kites must not negatively affect other visitors. All persons engaged in kite flying must make a reasonable effort to prevent resource damage, including collecting all kite materials Flying kites using glass-coated or other abrasive non-biodegradable kite string or line is prohibited.
Firearms. Federal law prohibits the possession of firearms in all Federal facilities (as defined in 18 USC § 930(g)(1)). Federal facilities are marked with signs at public entrances. Federal facilities include interior spaces within Memorial Restricted Areas; all park administrative and maintenance facilities buildings; USPP headquarters; the National Capital Region headquarters; East Potomac Golf Course; food service kiosks and information kiosks; and associated bookstores. The possession of firearms elsewhere within the park is governed by DC law.
Cleats. In accordance with the Record of Determination, dated November 18, 2016, the use of cleats is prohibited on the National Mall. This prohibition does not include East and West Potomac Parks and John F. Kennedy (JFK) Hockey Field
Tidal Basin. Pets are prohibited from all covered or chamber areas within the Tidal Basin, with the exception of service animals. The use of vessels within the Tidal Basin is prohibited, except for concessioner-provided boat rentals.
Fishing is prohibited except in the Potomac River, Washington Channel, Tidal Basin, and Constitution Gardens Lake. Fishing requires a DC fishing license.
Picnicking. Picnicking is prohibited in Memorial Restricted Areas. Groups of 25 or more may not picnic in the park without a permit. Reserved picnicking at Hains Point must be booked online through www.recreation.gov.
Golfing. Hitting golf balls outside the boundaries of East Potomac Golf Course is prohibited.
Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument. Filming and photography is prohibited outside of normal visiting hours.
Ford’s Theater National Historical Site.
The Presidential Box and roped-off areas of the Petersen House are closed to the public.
The entire Site is closed to permitted activities, except that the NPS may sponsor no more than four (4) special events per year in partnership with the park’s official non-profit partner, the Ford’s Theatre Society, to educate the public about the partnership and to support stewardship of the site.
Filming and photography is prohibited in the Presidential Box and outside of normal visiting hours, rehearsals, and performances.
Temporary Structure Height. The height of temporary structures may not exceed 45 feet to remain beneath the tree canopy, to protect the viewshed of the National Mall, and to support the safety and security of park areas. The 45-foot height restriction does not apply to temporary construction equipment such as cranes for construction projects or to temporary communications structures necessary to support security and safety at mass public gatherings in the park.
Water Features. Park-constructed water features means fountains, basins (including the Tidal Basin), and pools, but do not include natural water features such as the Potomac River. Items may not be placed into any park-constructed water feature, except for wind-powered and radio-controlled model boats in Constitution Gardens Lake, and other objects in Constitution Gardens Lake pursuant to a permit.
Statues. Climbing, marking, or hanging any item on statues is prohibited. The Vietnam Women's, Martin Luther King, Jr., Vietnam Veterans, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorials are designed to allow visitors to lightly touch the statuary located at each memorial. Light touching is allowed at these locations unless it impacts park resources or values, creates an unsafe or unhealthy environment, or unreasonably interferes with the commemorative atmosphere of the memorials.
The use of chalk, paint, dye, or other materials to mark statues, memorials, roadways, trails, sidewalks, plazas, hardscapes, walls, buildings, structures, signs, waysides, trees, turf areas and any other object or area in the park is prohibited except as authorized by a permit.
The use of paint, dye, or any other substance to change the color of water in any of the park’s pools, fountains, or bodies of water is prohibited except as authorized by a permit.
Filming, Still Photography, and Audio Recording. Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming and still photography inside Ford’s Theater and the Peterson House, within Ford’s Theater National Historical Site, requires a permit.
Filming and still photography inside the house and on the grounds of Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument requires a permit.
Filming and still photography in all Federal buildings requires a permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Washington Monument. Possession of the following items which could reasonably threaten public safety and security is prohibited within the Washington Monument restricted area identified in 36 CFR 7.96(g)(3)(ii)(E)
The items listed in Appendix A.
Suitcases, duffel bags, or backpacks larger than 18” x 16” x 8”, strollers, food (except for a small quantity of sealed food items), or beverages (except water, milk, or baby formula in clear plastic containers).
Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument. Private-tented events and other permitted events at Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument must be scheduled outside of public visitation hours and have a direct connection to the mission and interpretive themes identified in the Monument’s Foundation Document, which are Community of women, Action through legislation, Non-violent civil disobedience, The role of the National Woman’s Party, Women’s movement history, Minorities in the suffrage movement, and the International influence of the National Woman’s Party.
Turf and Tree Panels.
Special events and demonstrations may take place on turf areas provided that these activities follow requirements in the NPS Turf Management and Event Operations Guide for the National Mall and Memorial Parks. Unauthorized vehicles (including golf carts, carts, pedicabs, trucks, automobiles, or bicycles) may not drive or park on turf. Driving on turf with approved protective material is limited to Level II and Level III turf areas, as identified in the Guide.
Set up for a demonstration or event within any tree panel is prohibited except as approved by the Superintendent, including via permit.
Digging, staking, or otherwise damaging turf is prohibited other than pursuant to terms of a permit. Access to turf is prohibited during frosts, saturated conditions, or conditions that would cause turf damage.
Use of Personal Mobility Devices. Except as specific in this Compendium for visitors with disabilities:
Users of personal mobility devices also must adhere to DC regulations on the operation of personal mobility devices and to the following operating standards:
A person shall operate any personal mobility device in a safe and non-hazardous manner so not to endanger oneself or any other person. Operators of personal mobility devices must exercise appropriate reasonable care in recognition of the park’s pedestrians and other visitors, and that the park’s sidewalks and trails may contain seams, cracks, and other imperfections.
Personal mobility devices may not be operated at speeds above 8 M.P.H.
Personal mobility devices shall be parked alongside bicycle racks throughout the park. A map of bicycle racks is available on the park website: https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/maps.htm
Personal mobility devices may not be used in Memorial Restricted Areas or on the steps, colonnades, or within the chambers of the District of Columbia War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, or Thomas Jefferson Memorial. These devices may be left outside or walked through memorials and along Tidal Basin walks.
Buses.
Buses are allowed on all park roads and parking areas, except as noted below and subject to the following conditions:
Buses may not stop, stand, load, or unload in the bus stops designated for Big Bus Tours, the interpretive bus tour concessioner for the park.
Bus loading and unloading is restricted to drop-off and pick-up zones indicated by signage.
Buses may not park or stand on East Basin Drive SW.
Bus idling is prohibited except during loading and unloading of passengers. Consistent with DC law, buses may idle for no more than three minutes, unless temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit in which case buses may idle for no more than five minutes. See DC Municipal Regulations Section 20-900.
Bus parking is prohibited except at signed, parking meter locations at the bus rate.
Lincoln Memorial Circle (except as allowed in Section ll.ii.D below), Hains Point, and roads within the office complex at 1100 Ohio Drive SW are closed to buses.
Restricted Roads.
The following roads are closed to public access:
Ash Road between Independence Ave SW and the South Elm Walk.
Survey Lodge access road.
Access road between East Basin Drive and the Jefferson Memorial.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Ceremonial Loop.
Lincoln Memorial Circle from Henry Bacon Drive NW to Daniel French Drive SW east of the Memorial, and from 23rd St. SW to the Arlington Memorial Bridge.
The following park roads are closed to public access except for tour buses and tour vehicles, taxicabs, and vehicles with handicap markers/decals or handicap visitors loading or unloading:
23rd Street SW (south of Lincoln Memorial).
Daniel French Drive.
Home Front Drive.
Lincoln Memorial Circle from 23 St. SW to Daniel French Drive SW.
Snow and Emergency Roads. Constitution and Independence Avenues are designated as snow emergency and emergency evacuation routes. All vehicles parked or disabled on these roads during emergencies are subject to immediate towing without prior notification.
Parking.
The NPS manages parking meters in the park through an agreement with DC. The hours, rate and days for meter operation will be 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (except for rush hour restricted Constitution Avenue and except December 25). Meters accept credit cards and the ParkMobile parking app as payment. Parking meter rates are consistent with those for meters throughout the District. More information is available on the park website: https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/parking-meter-faq.htm.
Balloons. Balloons are prohibited, except as authorized pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit. Large helium-filled balloons may be carried in a permitted parade and cold-air filled balloon structures may be placed in the park as part of a permitted activity. Permitted balloons must always remain tethered and all reasonable efforts must be made to recover any lost balloons.
Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the NPS within the boundaries of the park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent. Pursuant to 14 CFR § 73.13, aircraft to include UAS are prohibited within the restricted air space (P-56) surrounding the White House, the U.S. Capitol and the Memorial Core from the U. S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. Permission to enter the P-56 airspace requires coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration for access to controlled airspace. For security reasons and the safety of crowds, the prohibition extends south of the P-56 airspace to include West Potomac Park, the Tidal Basin, and East Potomac Park, including Hains Point.
Tents. Private-tented events are limited to the West Potomac Park private reception area, Henry Bacon Ball Field, Constitution Gardens Plaza, and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument, and other locations authorized by the Superintendent. West Potomac Park and Constitution Gardens should be used as the primary reception locations whenever possible.
Stakes. During permitted events, personal tents, shelters, volleyball nets, or other structures anchored by stakes less than ten (10) inches in length are allowed in most park areas, if specifically authorized by a permit. Anchoring with stakes over ten (10) inches is allowed only by permit in certain locations identified in the NPS Turf Management and Event Operations Guide for the National Mall and Memorial Parks.
Glass Beverage Containers. Glass beverage containers are prohibited except for use within the permitted area during private tented events.
Pyrotechnics, Fireworks, Smoke, Fog, and Sparklers. Light and atmospheric displays such as pyrotechnics, fireworks, smoke, fog, and sparklers are prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit and in accordance with applicable DC law.
Projected Lights and Lasers. Projecting images, lights, and lasers on memorials is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit. Projecting images, lights or lasers is prohibited in all other areas except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
Winter Recreational Activities. Skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and other similar activities are allowed on the Hains Point sidewalk area and on grass or sidewalk sections of the National Mall when snow completely covers the surface and is deep enough so that no equipment comes in contact with grass or paved surfaces.
Recreational Equipment. Cones, bases, goals, and other items may not be left overnight. All such equipment will be impounded.
Weddings. Weddings may occur pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, but only at the following approved areas the DC War Memorial, west side of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the George Mason Memorial. Reception tents and other types of support structures are prohibited.
Parades. No more than eight (8) parades per calendar year are allowed in the park from 7th to 23rd Streets NW along Constitution Avenue NW. No more than two parades per quarter may occur annually. During the Presidential Inauguration, the parade will take place along Pennsylvania Avenue 4th to 17th Streets NW with logistical support along NPS jurisdiction sidewalks and plazas adjacent to Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Permit applicants are responsible for complying with all legal requirements for any portion of a permitted event that may include lands, streets, roadways, airspace, or other areas that are not under NPS jurisdiction. The increase in the maximum number of parades from previous years (no more than four parades per calendar year) is to allow for permit applicants to conduct America250 events referred to in 36 CFR 7.96(g)(8). America250 events have priority over all other special event permitting.
Sporting Events.
Permits are required from April 1 to September 30 for the use of all athletic fields located within the park. At all other times, these fields are opened on a first use basis. Fields may be closed as part of an annual rehabilitation and maintenance program. The NPS does not issue permits for sport activities on the Washington Monument grounds nor the Mall between 3rd – 15th Streets. The following areas require a permit, except as noted:
The three multi-use fields south of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool (the JFK Hockey Fields).
The multi-use field on Hains Point.
Fields bounded by Independence Avenue, Ohio Drive and West Basin Drive.
The 900 Ohio Drive ball field.
The Henry Bacon Drive softball fields. Can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov.
The softball fields at 23rd Street and Constitution Avenue and at 23rd Street and Independence Avenue. Can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov.
The Raoul Wallenberg Place multiuse field. Can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov.
The volleyball courts northwest of the Lincoln Memorial on the east side of the park walkway (Parkway Drive Volleyball Courts). Courts 1-9 can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov. Courts 10 and 11 are set aside as challenge courts and are available on a on a first come, first served basis. For volleyball tournaments, courts must be permitted through the National Mall and Memorial Parks Division of Permits Management. Courts 1-9 are available for tournament play. Courts 10 and 11 must remain open for unreserved play.
For visitor safety, softball must be played on designated softball fields. Softball play is prohibited on the Washington Monument grounds (the area within a boundary defined by Constitution Ave. NW, 17th St. NW and SW, Independence Ave. SW, and 14th St. NW and SW) because no softball fields are present in this area.
Specific information about organized runs, races, and biking events can be found in the Record of Determination for the Continued Public Use Limitation Guidelines for Footraces, Organized Runs and Bicycle Events in National Mall and Memorial Parks dated September 22, 2016.
Temporary Artwork Installation. Temporary unattended artwork installations are prohibited except pursuant to a permit. With the exception of projects with substantial involvement and approval by the NPS to accomplish NPS mission and goals, the NPS will not permit temporary artwork installations within the Reserve area as defined by the Commemorative Works Act (CWA; 40 U.S.C. § 8902(a)(3)) and depicted on the map entitled "Commemorative Areas Washington, DC and Environs", numbered 869/86501 B, and dated June 24, 2003.
News Media.
Restricted areas and other Federal regulations apply to all activities by news media. Rules for news media activity at or near Memorial Restricted Areas are available by contacting the National Mall and Memorial Parks Office of Communications.
Parking for satellite and microwave trucks and transmission vehicles may be made available for news events at the discretion of the NPS. Parking locations for these vehicles will be announced to the media via media advisory. Parking will not be made available for crew cars or any other vehicles.
Media vehicles may not block or intrude on public access or block handicap ramps.
Overnight parking of news media vehicles is not permitted on park property without written authorization. The National Mall and Memorial Parks Office of Communications must give permission if overnight parking is deemed necessary and will inform USPP.
News media vehicles must always be attended, unless otherwise directed by USPP.
For large scale events with limited space for media operations, the NPS reserves the right to require media outlets to make pooling arrangements.
Media related activity cannot interfere with public visitation or other permitted activities. Areas open to the public must always remain open to the public.
Cables crossing public walkways must be covered and cannot be draped over any walls.
The NPS reserves the right to disapprove and require removal of news media set-ups that create safety hazards or other impairments.
All camera and associated equipment must be portable and self-contained with all stands on hard surfaces having rubber tips or matting as a base.
SECTION 2: ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
Authority: 36 CFR 1.6
In addition to the permit requirements stated elsewhere in this compendium, the following activities require a permit. Criteria for approving or denying permits are established by applicable law (statutes and regulations) and policy. Applicable policies are generally available on the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/permit-planning-resources.htm. Permitted activities are subject to applicable terms and conditions. More information about permits is available on the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm.
Launching or landing uncrewed aircraft. 36 CFR 1.5.
Specimen collection for research purposes. 36 CFR 2.5.
Gathering of plants or plant parts by Federally recognized Indian tribes. 36 CFR 2.6.
Operating a power saw in developed areas and a motor or engine in undeveloped areas. 36 CFR 2.12.
Operating a public address system 36 CFR 2.12.
Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means. 36 CFR 2.17.
Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services. 36 CFR 2.37.
Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives; using or possessing fireworks or firecrackers. 36 CFR 2.38.
Conducting a special event, including sporting events. 36 CFR 2.50.
Conducting a demonstration by groups of more than 25 people. 36 CFR 2.51.
Selling or distributing printed matter and other message-bearing items by groups of more than 25 people. 36 CFR 2.52.
Residing on federal lands. 36 CFR 2.61.
Scattering of human ashes from cremation. 36 CFR 2.62.
Towing a person using a parasail, hang-glider, or other airborne device. 36 CFR 3.12.
Operating a submersible. 36 CFR 3.19.
Displaying, posting, or distributing commercial notices or advertisements. 36 CFR 5.1
Engaging in or soliciting any business. 36 CFR 5.3.
Using commercial vehicles on NPS-administered roads. 35 CFR 5.6.
Constructing or attempting to construct any building, structure, road, trail, path, or utility. 36 CFR 5.7.
Rights-of-way. 36 CFR part 14.
Examining ruins, excavating archeological sites, and gathering of objects of antiquity. 43 CFR part 3.
Excavating or removing archeological resources. 43 CFR part 7.
Collecting paleontological resources. 43 CFR part 49
Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 54 U.S.C. 100905
SECTION 3: OTHER ACTIONS
Authorities: Noted below
36 CFR 2.2 – Wildlife Protection.
Viewing wildlife with artificial light is prohibited throughout the park.
Fires are prohibited without a permit, except for the use of grills in picnic areas in East Potomac Park. Fires requiring a permit include, but are not limited to, ceremonial fires, bonfires, effigy burnings, flag burnings, and any fire of any kind.
Extinguishing charcoal fires by spreading charcoal on any ground surface or dumping charcoal in any body of water is prohibited. Users must remove all fire by-products from the park or place them in receptacles designated for that purpose.
36 CFR 2.15 – Pets.
Pet waste must be collected and disposed of by placing in a plastic bag and placing in a trash receptacle.
36 CFR 2.20 – Skating, Skateboards, and similar devices.
Roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices may be used on roadways, sidewalks adjacent to roadways, and the North and South Elm Walks parallel to the Reflecting Pool.
36 CFR 2.21 – Smoking.
Smoking is prohibited in the following areas:
In all Federal buildings and within 25 feet of any exit or entrance.
Within the Memorial Restricted Areas.
Within 500 feet of any fuel storage dispensing facility.
36 CFR 2.35 – Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances.
The use, sale, or possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited except in designated areas for approved commercial services operations under contract with the NPS and assigned by the Superintendent or within limited and clearly designated private event areas if authorized under a specific permit issued by the Superintendent. Private event areas include the Henry Bacon Turf area (Ballfield 1, West Potomac Park Private Reception Area, Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument, and Constitution Garden Plaza. Temporary limited and clearly designated private event areas within which alcohol can be sold, possessed, and consumed may be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to all applicable laws, regulations, DOI and NPS policies, and permit Conditions.
Permittees and commercial services operators must comply with DC law, including license and fee requirements, for the sale, distribution, and possession of alcohol, including when authorized by the NPS. Compliance includes DC Code Title 25, and any guidelines and requirements set forth by the District of Columbia Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA), and the District of Columbia Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board. Issuance of a NPS permit for an event or commercial services authorization does not alone authorize the permittee or operator to sell, distribute, or possess alcohol.
36 CFR 3.8 – Vessel Operations
The use of shorelines and structures for the launching or landing of boats, jet skis, canoes, kayaks, or similar devices is prohibited except for:
Non-motorized vessels launched and landed at the East Potomac Park Day Dock.
Commercial activities authorized under a concession contract, commercial use authorization or other written instrument.
36 CFR 4.21 – Speed limits.
The speed limit for motor vehicles is 25 miles per hour, except as stated below:
The speed limit on Jefferson Drive SW, Madison Drive NW, East Basin Drive SW, West Basin Drive SW, Ohio Drive SW, and Buckeye Drive SW is 15 miles per hour.
The speed limit on Independence Avenue (between 23rd Street and 15th Streets NW) and Constitution Avenue (between 23rd and 15th Streets NW) is 30 miles per hour
36 CFR 4.30 – Bicycles.
Existing trails
Bicycles are allowed on sidewalks adjacent to roadways, and the North and South Elm Walks parallel to the Reflecting Pool.
Bicycles are prohibited on the steps, colonnades, or within the chambers of the DC War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, or the Washington Monument.
Commercial or guided bicycle groups are not permitted in the CFR Restricted Areas and in the locations identified in closure B.7 above.
Pursuant to a Record of Determination dated June 29, 2012, pedicabs are prohibited, except on park roads open to public vehicle traffic.
Closures and other use restrictions.
Bicyclists must walk their bicycles through the memorials and along Tidal Basin walks with the exception of the NPS partner-sponsored event for Police Week at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, which is a long-standing tradition to honor fallen police officers at the memorial that aligns with the memorial subject and purpose and intent of the commemoration.
Pedicabs are allowed to stage and wait for passengers only in those locations designated with a sign as a Pedicab Stand. Pedicab operators are required to have a valid NPS-issued commercial use authorization (CUA) identification card visible while operating in the park.
Electric bicycles.
Electric bicycles are allowed where traditional bicycles also are allowed, except for pedicabs with an electric motor of any kind (including “electric start” or “assist motors”), which are not allowed to operate in the park.
36 CFR 7.96 – Swimming.
Bathing, swimming or wading in any fountain or pool is prohibited except as stated below:
Wading and walking are allowed at the German American Friendship Garden fountains.
Placing feet or touching the water in the Rainbow Pool of the World War II Memorial.
APPENDIX A – PROHIBITED ITEMS
The public may not take prohibited items inside Federal buildings or the Memorial Restricted Areas, unless granted a written exception or exemption by the NPS. To obtain an exception or exemption please contact the NPS by calling (202) 426-6841 or by writing to the Superintendent at National Mall and Memorial Parks, 1100 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, DC 20242.
Prohibited items are not allowed until specific authorization has been granted and communicated to appropriate personnel. “Tools of the trade” used by authorized contractors and concessioners are generally granted as an overall exemption, but the security specialist may still refuse admittance with cause.Prohibited items are items that are dangerous, unlawful, or otherwise have been determined to create vulnerabilities to NPS staff or the visiting public. They include, but are not limited to, any animate or inanimate weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury. The list below is not exhaustive and the NPS reserves the right to prohibit additional items that meet the criteria stated above.
Guns and Firearms
Firearms (exceptions listed in 18 U.S.C. § 930)
BB guns
Compressed air guns
Flare pistols
Flame throwers
Gun lighters
Parts of guns and firearms
Pellet guns
Realistic replicas of firearms
Spear guns
Starter pistols
Stun guns/cattle prods/shocking devices
Ammunition
Bladed, Edged or Sharp Objects
Axes and hatchets, bows, and arrows
Drills, including cordless portable power drills
Ice axes/Ice picks
Saws (including cordless portable power saws)
Knives, sabers, swords, daggers, and other bladed devices (blades less than 2 ½” exempted)
Scissors, metal with pointed tips
Screwdrivers (except those in eyeglass repair kits)
Razors and razor-type blades such as box cutters, utility knives, and razor blades not in a cartridge, but excluding safety razors
Throwing stars (martial arts)
Realistic replicas of any of the above
Club-Like Items and Striking Devices
Baseball bats
Billy clubs
Brass knuckles
Cricket bats
Crowbars
Golf clubs
Hammers
Hockey sticks
Lacrosse sticks
Martial arts weapons, including nun chucks and batons
Night sticks
Pool cues
Ski poles
Tools, including, but not limited to wrenches and pliers
All Explosives
Ammunition
Blasting caps
Dynamite
Fireworks
Flares in any form
Gunpowder
Hand grenades
Plastic explosives
Realistic replicas of explosives
Incendiaries and flammable items
Aerosol sprays
Fuels, including cooking fuels and any flammable liquid fuel
Gasoline
Gas torches, including micro-torches and torch lighters
Turpentine and paint thinner
Realistic replicas of incendiaries
Flammable materials modified as to become a weapon, e.g., Molotov cocktails
