What is a Commercial Use Authorization?
36 CFR Section 5.3 states, "Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited."
CUAs fall under the authority of Section 418 of the National Park Service Concession Management Improvement Act of 1998 (16 U.S.C 5966 Public Law 105-81). The section authorizes the National Park Service to issue CUAs to individuals, corporations, and other entities to provide commercial services to park visitors in limited circumstances. Visit the National Park Service CUA website for more information about this program.
Operating a commercial activity in the park without a CUA permit will result in the issuance of a legal warning, federal citation, or a mandatory federal court appearance.
What commercial activities are authorized at Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
The following commercial activities are currently approved for CUA issuance at THRO:
Hiking - Backcountry
Photography Instruction
Step-On Interpretive Guide Service
Wildlife Viewing
What are the general criteria for the issuance of a Commercial Use Authorization?
The authorization is issued to a qualified operator to authorize the provision of appropriate commercial services to park area visitors. A qualified operator is an organization that the Superintendent determines has the ability to satisfactorily provide visitor services and carry out the terms of the CUA.
Authorized commercial services must:
- Have minimal impact on park resources and values.
- Be consistent with the purpose for which the park area was established.
- Be consistent with all applicable park area management plans, policies, and regulations.
Application Process
- Apply for a 2025 CUA through the CUA Online Application and Reporting System.
- To view tutorials on How to Apply for a Commercial Use Authorization Permit.
When to Apply
March 8, 2025 - April 9, 2025
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