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In accordance with applicable law and policy, and pursuant to the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations ("36 CFR"), the following compendium actions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service (“NPS”), within the boundaries of Stonewall National Monument. This document is a written compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the superintendent, as required by 36 CFR 1.7(b). Violating any provision in this compendium may result in criminal penalties under 36 CFR 1.3.
The compendium actions in this document apply in addition to all other laws that apply to lands and waters administered by the NPS within the boundaries of Stonewall National Monument. These include:
Regulations in 36 CFR and other CFFR titles such as Title 43 which contain regulations that apply on public lands administered by the Department of the Interior. The current version of the CFR can be found at www.ecfr.gov.
Statutes codified in U.S. Code, in particular provisions in Titles 16 and 54.
The compendium is organized by the sections in 36 CFR that give the Superintendent discretionary authority to take the compendium action. Written determinations that explain why each compendium action is necessary appear in this document in italicized print.
Please contact the Chief of Operations at (212) 825-6990 if you have questions or comments about this compendium.
Rules and Regulations
Select a section to expand.
Stonewall National Monument is open 7:00am – 8:00pm Memorial Day through Labor Day (peak season) and 7:00am – 5:00pm the day after Labor Day through the day before Memorial Day (non-peak season), weather permitting. Christopher Park grounds are closed on Sunday of New York Pride weekend, the last Sunday in June. Park quiet hours are between the time park gates are closed in the evening and opened the following morning.
Visiting hours and access to the grounds are posted at the building, on the grounds and the public website www.nps.gov/ston.
These hours help to ensure the park is open, accessible and maintains a consistent level of public service.
Closures
The Superintendent may close the park due to severe weather or emergencies on an as needed basis. Closures will be posted at the site and/or on the park website www.nps.gov/ston.
Extreme weather can create life-threatening conditions and emergency situationsmay require keeping visitors away to avoid interference and ensure their safety. The closure during the Pride Parade or any large protest in the area is in line with the park’s objective of commemorating the LGB Civil Rights movement.
Public Use Limits
The maximum occupancy is 130 for normal operations, however, a lower number may be deemed necessary on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of an activity.
Capacity limits allow visitors to safely enjoy park programs and resources while resource protection is maintained. Occupancy figures may be lowered as necessary on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of an event or activity.
Conditions or Restrictions on a Use or Activity
Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed or remotely piloted aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Stonewall National Monument is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.
This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potential impacts include harming visitors, interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Reference Manual #60: Aviation Management, Chapter 12 – Uncrewed Aircraft Systems.
Personal property larger than 22 x 14 x 9 nine inches is prohibited.
The park has a small footprint and oversize personal property can block visitor access to egress and park resources. This size restriction is based on the generally accepted airline carry-on standards.
Personal items cannot be left with NPS staff.
Having staff safeguard personal belongings diverts them from their primary duties of visitor assistance, interpretation, and safety enforcement.
Signs or placards shall not be permitted in the park area except those made of cardboard, poster board, plastic or cloth and have dimensions no greater than 3 feet in width, 4 feet in length and one quarter inch in thickness. No supports shall be permitted for signs or placards.
Large, rigid signs (e.g., made of wood or metal) can block walkways, egress and pose a safety risk during windy conditions.
Music on portable music players and smartphones may only be played with headphones. Portable Bluetooth speakers are prohibited.
Amplified sound can disrupt ranger-led programs and prevent users from hearing important information like directions from park staff and emergency alerts.
Sacrificing animals and leaving animal remains is prohibited.
National parks are governed by strict federal laws that protect wildlife. These laws make it illegal to kill or harm animals within park boundaries, regardless of the purpose. Improper disposal of animal remains can attract predators and threaten the health and safety of visitors.
Feeding wildlife is prohibited.
Animals that associate people with food may become bold or aggressive, leading to bites, scratches, or other injury. NPS regulations prohibit wildlife feeding to ensure the ethical treatment ofanimals and ensure visitor safety.
Kite flying, ball playing, disc throwing and similar recreational activities are prohibited.
Flying objects can accidentally strike visitors and fast-moving games pose a risk of injury and can lead to trampling of vegetation.
Photographing security features or fixtures inside or outside of the park is prohibited.
This condition has been established to maintain public health and safety. Taking such photographs may be investigated by US Park Police and/or NYPD.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occur in closed areas requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
The following activities are prohibited without a permit. Criteria for approving or denying permits are established by applicable law (statues and regulations) and policy. Permitted activities are subject to applicable terms and conditions.
Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depending upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information) 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 U.S.C 100905
Operating a public address system. This also requires a permit from the New York Police Department 36 CFR §2.12
Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials and possessing fireworks and firecrackers. 36 CFR § 2.38
Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit 36 CFR §2.50, §2.51 or §2.52 and §2.37
Sports events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events are allowed, provided there is a meaningful association between the park area and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the significance of the park area, and a permit therefore has been issued by the superintendent. 36 CFR §2.50(a)
Specimen collection for research purposes 36 CFR §2.5
Memorialization (a) The installation of a monument, memorial, tablet, structure, or other commemorative installation in Stonewall National Monument without the authorization of the Director is prohibited. (b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, or in designated areas according to conditions which may be established by the superintendent 36 CFR §2.62
Advertisements (display, posting or distribution) 36 CFR §4.11(a)
Sale of intoxicants on Federal land and in buildings 36 CFR §5.2(b)
Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States or must be pursuant to special regulations) 36 CFR §5.3
§ 2.1(a)(5) Walking on, climbing, entering, ascending, descending, or traversing an archeological or cultural resource, monument, or statue, except in designated areas and under conditions established by the Superintendent.
To maintain public safety visitors must enter and exit the park at the areas marked for such use and follow staff directions and instructions while visiting the park.
§ 2.1(a)(6) Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing a structure or its furnishing or fixtures, or other cultural or archeological resources are prohibited.
Federal laws including the Antiquities Act of 1906, Organic Act of 1916 and Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) of 1979, explicitly protect cultural and archaeological resources on public lands, and mandate the NPS to conserve park resources.
Camping is prohibited.
There are no designated areas for camping at the park.
Picnicking and the use of cooking grills of any type are prohibited.
Picnicking activities can cause fires and lead to littering and food waste that attract vermin.
Lighting or maintaining a fire on the grounds of Stonewall National Memorial is prohibited.
There are no designated areas or receptacles for lighting or maintaining fires at the park.
Using Park refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial is prohibited.
Refuse that is not managed properly can cause unsanitary conditions which can lead to rodent infestation. This restriction is necessary to protect visitor health and safety and the environmental value of the park.
Pets, excluding service animals, are not allowed.
A service animal shall be under the control of its handler. A service animal shall have a harness, leash, or other tether, unless either the handler is unable because of disability, to use a harness or leash, or other tether would interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks, in which case the service animal must be otherwise under the handler's control (e.g., voice control, signals or other effective means).
Park staff cannot ask about the nature or extent of a person's disability, but may ask if the animal is required because of a disability and what work or task the animal has been trained to perform. Documentation such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal is not required.
Not all animals are well-behaved in an unfamiliar environment, some may react unpredictably causing disruption and potential harm to visitors.Leaving a service animal unattended and tied to an object is prohibited.Service animals left alone may cause a disturbance or become a danger to visitors. There are no designated areas for leaving service animals unattended at the park.
Pet excrement must be removed immediately from park grounds.
Allowing pet excrement to remain in the park can create unsanitary conditions, user conflicts, and impact the natural fauna. In accordance with New York State Public Health Law§1310 for the entire park.
Use of rollerblades, skates, skateboards, motor and coasting vehicles is prohibited.
There are no designated use areas for these devices in the park.
Smoking is prohibited anywhere within the boundaries of the park. For the purpose of this section, smoking is inclusive of tobacco products as well as electronic cigarettes and “vaping” products.
A smoke-free environment reduces the risk of fire and ensures that all visitors, regardless of health status or personal preference, can enjoy the park.
Property determined to be left unattended for any period may be impounded. All property must always remain under the direct control of its owner.
Unattended property can interfere with visitor safety, orderly management of park areas, and present a threat to law enforcement resources. Such property may be impounded for inspection which may be destructive.
All areas of Stonewall National Monument are closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed. This condition is not applicable during authorized special events under permit.
The consumption and possession of alcoholic beverages are inappropriate considering the purpose for which the park was established and is maintained.
All areas of Stonewall National Monument are closed to the allowance of controlled substances unless such substance was obtained by the possessor directly, or pursuant to a valid prescription or order, from a practitioner acting in the course of professional practice or otherwise allowed by Federal or State law.
The National Park Service rules follow Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) rules. In regard to permits or first amendment activities, permits will not be issued to allow use of controlled substances for any events or First Amendment activities.
36 CFR §2.4(3)(g) The carrying or possessing of a weapon, trap or net in violation of applicable Federal and State laws is prohibited.
In accordance with 41 CFR section 102-74.440, the possession of firearms or other dangerous weapons in Federal facilities and Federal court facilities by all persons not specifically authorized by 18 USC 930 is prohibited. This includes visitor centers, museum/exhibit areas, restrooms, offices, historic rooms, or any other indoor space within the boundaries of the national park site. This restriction will not apply to an officer, agent or employee of the United States, New York State or New York City, who is authorized by law to engage in or supervise the prevention, detection, investigation, or prosecution of any violation of law.
HR-218: The Law Enforcement Officers’ Safety Act will not supersede 41 CFR section 102-74.440. Additionally, HR-218 does not supersede the laws of any state that restrict firearm possession in certain places (18 USC §926C(b)), or other state laws that are not in direct conflict with LEOSA (as stated in 18 USC §927).
36 CFR §2.51(c)(2) – Designated locationThe First Amendment area is located on the sidewalk outside the fence and surrounding the flagpole at Christopher St/Stonewall Pl and Grove Street (see Appendix A). A permit is not required for a demonstration in the designated location if it involves 25 people or fewer and does not involve structures. Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within designated park areas when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
The designated location is a prominent location that lets individuals and groups conduct demonstrations in a manner that allows for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. The designated location leaves space for visitors to enter and exit the park safely and for the NPS to conduct activities, e.g., interpretive events.
The sidewalk outside the fence and surrounding the flagpole at Christopher St/Stonewall Pl and Grove Street (see Appendix A) is the location designated as available for the sale or distribution of printed matter and the free distribution of other message-bearing items. A permit is not required for these activities in the designated location if it involves 25 people or fewer and does not involve structures. See Appendix A for images of the designated location.
The term “printed matter” means message-bearing textual printed material such as books, pamphlets, magazines, and leaflets, provided that it is not solely commercial advertising. The term “other message-bearing items” means a message-bearing item that is not “printed matter” and is not solely commercial advertising. Other message-bearing items include but are not limited to: Readable electronic media such as CDs, DVDs, and flash drives; clothing and accessories such as hats and key chains; buttons; pins; and bumper stickers.
(b) Permits and the small group permit exception. The sale or distribution of 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 an area designated as available under§ 2.51(c)(2) and when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity with exceptions under § 2.52(b)(1).
The designated location is a prominent location that lets individuals and groups conduct demonstrations in a manner that allows for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. The designated location leaves space for visitors to enter and exit the park safely and for the NPS to conduct activities, e.g., interpretive events.
The use, storage and attachment to park property of bicycles and electric bicycles (‘e-bikes”) is prohibited.
There are no roads or parking areas for motor vehicle use. Bicycles would use such roads or parking areas. There are no designated areas for storage of bicycles and e-bikes at the park.
Appendix A
Below are images of the designated location for First Amendment activity and the sale or distribution of printed matter and other message-bearing items at Stonewall National Monument.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Contact Info
Mailing Address:
26 Wall Street
Federal Hall National Monument c/o Stonewall National Monument
New York,
NY
10005
