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.
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.
Application ProcessCUA application packets are accepted year-round. 1. Complete application packets include the documents listed below:
2. Complete CUA application packets should be submitted via email to pais_special_park_use_permits@nps.gov.
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.
CUA Fees
Frequently Asked QuestionsThe authorization is issued to an operator to permit the provision of suitable commercial services to park area visitors. The superintendent determines if an operator can satisfactorily provide visitor services and carry out the terms of the CUA. The superintendent determines that the commercial services are “suitable”; that is, they (a) will have minimal impact on park area’s resources and values; (b) are consistent with the purposes for which the park area was established; and (c) are consistent with all applicable park area management plans, policies, and regulations. The holder must agree to comply with all general and specific conditions described in the CUA conditions. All activity- and service-based CUAs are issued for up to one year. The CUA operating year is from January 1 to December 31. Applications will be accepted beginning October 1st of the year prior to the operating year and will be accepted throughout the operating year. Please submit complete application packets 45 days before your first trip in the park. All activity-based CUA activities require $75 application fee for each service category due with the application. This fee is not refundable. An administrative fee of $250 is due when applications are approved and a CUA is issued. The CUA holder is responsible for maintaining accounting records that demonstrate evidence of gross receipts and required fee payment. NPS may audit CUA holder financial reports at any time. All service-based CUA activities require a $75 non-refundable application fee. An administrative fee of $250 is due when applications are approved and a CUA is issued. The CUA holder is responsible for maintaining accounting records that demonstrate evidence of gross receipts and required fee payment. NPS may audit CUA holder financial reports at any time. National Park Service Policy requires the Superintendent to charge a reasonable fee for CUAs. The park retains such fees to help pay for the cost of the CUA program, including administration, evaluations, monitoring, and training. Annual Financial Reports, which cover the operating year are due by January 31st following the end of the operating year. A separate Financial Report is required for each activity for which a CUA holder has a CUA. The CUA Coordinator will review all Annual Financial Reports for accuracy. CUA application fees and administrative fees may be paid via check or in person at the park entrance station. If paying by check, please make check payable to "National Park Service" and mail to the address below. Contact UsIf you have any questions regarding the CUA application process or requirements, please contact the CUA Coordinator. |
Last updated: July 21, 2023