The policies for managing the National Park System and NPS programs are guided by and must be consistent with the U.S. Constitution, other public laws, executive proclamations and orders, regulations, and directives from higher authorities. This section highlights those that are cited in Management Policies, as well as ones governing the many program activities administered by the National Park Service.
In carrying out their responsibilities under the 1916 National Park Service Organic Act and other pertinent statutes, all NPS officials and employees must be knowledgeable about the laws, regulations, and policies that pertain to their work.
Learn more about the relationship between laws, regulations, and policies.
Laws
National Park Service policies are guided by laws enacted by Congress
Executive Orders and Memoranda
The National Park Service may develop policies to comport with Executive Orders and Memoranda issued by the President
Regulations
Regulations are mechanisms for implementing laws and for enforcing established policies
Last updated: July 6, 2023