Right of Way Permits

Right of way (ROW) permits are issued by the NPS to a third party to pass over, under, or through a National Park Service owned or controlled area. These permits are required for use in documenting new and existing utilities. Examples of a linear right of way permit include communication, power, storm-water ditches, water supply, and sewer over, under, or through park property.

Right of way permits are discretionary and revocable documents and, unlike a deeded easement or fee simple ownership, do not convey or imply any interest in the land.

Right of way permits may be issued for activities specifically authorized by Congress and only if there is no practicable alternative to the use of NPS lands. If legal authority for a requested use is not found, the park must deny the request. Right of way permits are usually authorized under 54 U.S.C. 100902 (b) and 54 U.S.C. 100902 (a). Except when authorized by Congress, any use of park land that would impair the values and purposes for which the park was authorized or be incompatible with the public interest is forbidden.

Right of Way permits require preparing site visits, surveys, data collection activities, and site assessments on NPS lands. This access can be requested through a special use permit.
Right of way permits are managed by the Division of Professional Services at the National Mall and Memorial Parks and by the Lands and Planning Office at the National Capital Region.

Application Form

To obtain an application for a right of way permit, please see the following link: https://www.gsa.gov/reference/forms/application-for-transportation-utility-systems-telecommunications-and-facilities-on-federal-lands-and-property. Please send the completed form to the Park GIS Specialist.

Additional Information

For additional information, please visit:https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/right-of-way-permit.htm or contact the Park GIS Specialist below:

GIS Specialist
National Park Service
National Mall and Memorial Parks
1100 Ohio Drive SW
Washington, DC 20024
Tel: [phone]
Email: GIS Specialist