Permits & Reservations

A band playing on the Township Hall stage.

NPS Photo

Reservations

If you have a group that would like a tour of the historic town of Nicodemus, please call ahead to make a reservation with a park ranger. No other activites in Nicodmeus require a reservation.

Permits

Special Use

Nicodemus National Historic Site manages, leases and owns a variety of buildings and lots within the unincorporated town of Nicodemus. Visitors may want to organize special events within the park unit, such as weddings, dinners, funerals, ceremonies, and film and photography projects. Most special events and activities held in the park require a special use permit, issued only after the National Park Service determines that the activities involved will not impair park values and resources. Application packets, which consist of the application, non-refundable application fee (if applicable), and liability insurance (if needed), must be received at the park a minimum of 20 business days before the requested permit date or your permit request can be denied. Complex uses or activities may need additional time, however, applications will not be accepted more than one year before your event. Please note that there are usage limits for the number of people and vehicles for any special activity.

Visitors interested in utilizing the Township Hall for a special event, outside of regular visitor center hours, should contact the park superintendent [e-mail] or the Township Board Clerk Chris Wells [e-mail].

Filming, Still Photography and Sound Recordings

Please visit our Filming and Photography webpage for more information about what requires a permit and the application process.

Commercial Operators

Federal regulations prohibit 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. As in other National Park Service areas, commercial visitor services or other commercial activities may be provided only by those holding an authorization from the United States.

Do Business With Us

Large/Organized Groups

Groups providing packaged, organized, or guided activities within Nicodemus National Historic Site may require a Special Park Uses permit to manage their anticipated activities. Please complete the application for a Special Use Permit and return with your non-refundable $50 application fee and proof of general liability insurance with the United States of America listed as "additional insured" and Nicodmeus National Historic Site, 304 Washington Avenue, Nicodemus, KS 67625, listed as the Certificate Holder. Additional documentation may be required for groups wishing to obtain a Special Park Uses permit in lieu of a Commercial Use Authorization. Please email the Special Park Uses office at [e-mail] with all applications and supporting documentation, or any questions about anticipated activities, group status, or permit requirements.

• Special Use Permit Application (word document)

First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations (36 CFR § 2.51)

The term "demonstrations" includes demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers.

Nicodemus National Historic Site offers 1 designated location where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment rights through demonstrations. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people or if the National Park Service deems further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donation, is allowed within park areas if it occurs in designated First Amendment areas.

For a map of the designated demonstration area in Nicodemus National Historic Site, please reach out to the Visitor Center or the Superintendent.

Who Needs a Permit?

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within teh designated First Amendment area, provided that:

• The location can accommodate the group size (see maps and details below). If a location is requested because of activity or group size, a non-fee permit is required;
• They will not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations, special events, or park program activities; site use is granted on a first come-first serve basis with preference given to the permit holder;
• Hand-carried signs may be used. Stages, platforms, or structures require a non-fee permit.

If you meet the criteria above, you are welcome to demonstrate in a designated First Amendment site without a permit. If your planned activity includes components besides the above criteria, or if you have questions, please contact the Special Park Uses Office at [e-mail].

How to Apply

First Amendment Permits are free of charge and can be valid up to 7-14 days at a time. The organizer is requested to provide reasonable notice (preferably 10 business days) of the proposed event to the Special Park Uses Office, including whether there is any reason to believe that there may be an attempt to disrupt, protest, or prevent the activity. Submit the below application to the Special Park Uses Office:

10-934 Application for SUP Demonstrations and Distribution of Materials