Point Reyes National Seashore requires visitors to obtain permits before participating in certain activities, such as backcountry camping, building beach fires, weddings or ceremonies, and special events. Left unregulated, these activities could cause harmful impacts to the park's natural and/or cultural resources or to the enjoyment of the park by other visitors. No permits or reservations are required for day visits to Point Reyes National Seashore, such as going for a day hike, wildlife viewing, relaxing at a beach, or visiting the lighthouse. If you have general questions about visiting Point Reyes National Seashore, consult our Frequently Asked Questions page or feel free to Contact Us. The NPS is evaluating the provisions of the recently enacted EXPLORE Act and will manage filming and photography in park areas consistent with the new law. Individuals and groups engaging in filming and photography remain subject to all other laws and regulations that protect resources and visitors in park areas. The NPS will be updating its filming and still photography website with the most current information about implementation of the EXPLORE Act. Updated information will be coming soon. For more details, please contact the Special Park Uses office via email. Activities that Require a PermitFollowing is a list of several, but not all, activities that require a permit, and appropriate contact information.
2025 Blackout DatesSpecial Use Permits will not be issued for events, including weddings and picnics of over 25 people, on the following dates in 2025: Wednesday, January 1 – New Year's Day Saturday, January 18 Saturday, February 15 Saturday, May 24 Thursday, June 19 — Juneteenth National Independence Day Friday, July 4 — Independence Day Saturday, August 30 Saturday, October 11 Saturday, November 8 Thursday, November 27 — Thanksgiving Day Thursday, December 25 — Christmas Day Thursday, January 1, 2026 — New Year’s Day What is Required to Obtain a Special Use PermitStandard Event Permit Conditions (144 KB PDF) Prior to issuance of a Special Use Permit, we generally require the following:
Drone Use is ProhibitedIn part, under 36 CFR 1.5, launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within boundaries of Point Reyes National Seashore is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent. ApplicationsPlease contact the Special Parks Uses office for more information by email. Standard Event Permit Conditions (144 KB PDF) Special Use Permit Application Form (NPS Form 10-930) (1,316 KB PDF) |
Last updated: February 7, 2025