Commercial Use Authorization

 

What is a Commercial Use Authorization?

The Concessions Management Improvement Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-391, Section 418), provides for the issuance of Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) to a private person, corporation, or other entity to provide suitable commercial services for park area visitors. Commercial activities are generally prohibited in National Parks unless authorized by a CUA or concessions contract.

 

What Activities and Services are Authorized Through a CUA?

Padre Island National Seashore currently issues activity-based CUAs for the following activities.

All activity-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. A $75 non-refundable application fee is required for each service category, due with the application.

  • Fishing guide services

  • Tour guide services

Padre Island National Seashore currently issues service-based CUAs for the following activities.

All service-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. All service-based CUA activities require a $75 non-refundable application fee.

  • Mobile food services

 

Application Process

CUA application packets are accepted year-round.

1. Complete application packets include the documents listed below:

  • NPS Form 10-550—CUA Application [PDF 717KB]

  • Copies of current insurance:
    • Certificate of auto liability insurance for the vehicle(s)/ driver(s) operating in the park.
    • Certificate of commercial general liability insurance covering the type(s) of activity the CUA holder will be conducting.

      • The minimum coverage is $500,000.

      • The insurance certificate must name the “United States of America, Padre Island National Seashore. PO Box 181300 Corpus Christi, TX 78480” as additional insured.

      • The insurance certificate must specify that the service authorized by the permit is covered by the insurance policy.

  • Copies of all applicable licenses, permits and certifications:

  • Copies of any advertising brochures, menus, or other materials.

  • Application fee paid via check or receipt for application fee payment made at the park entrance station.

2. Complete CUA application packets should be submitted via email to pais_special_park_use_permits@nps.gov.

  • If your application is missing any components listed above, we will inform you via the email address or phone number listed on the application. Any incomplete applications will be placed on hold until all required documentation is received.

3. Once your application packet has been reviewed and approved, we will send the CUA, NPS Form 10-115, via the email address listed on the application, along with instructions to pay the administrative fee of $250.

4. The CUA holder will then sign and return the CUA form(s) and payment receipt to pais_special_park_use_permits@nps.gov. The CUA is not final until the signed form(s) are received by our office.

5. Complete and submit NPS Form 10-660 Annual Report Form—Due by January 31st following the operating year.

  • A separate annual report is required for each CUA.
  • An annual report is required even if no revenue was earned during the operating year.
 

CUA Fees

Fee

Due Date

Application fee - $75 (non-refundable)

When application is submitted

Management fee - $250

If application is approved

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding the CUA application process or requirements, please contact the CUA Coordinator.

Email
pais_special_park_use_permits@nps.gov

Phone
(361) 949-1609

Mail
Special Use Permit Coordinator
Padre Island National Seashore
P.O. Box 181300
Corpus Christi, TX 78480

Last updated: July 21, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 181300
Corpus Christi, TX 78480

Phone:

(361) 949-8068
Malaquite Visitor Center information line.

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