Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. The necessity of a Special Use Permit to conduct First Amendment activities is determined by the group size.
A "small group" is not required to obtain a First Amendment Permit if they are located within a park-designated First Amendment site and have no more than leaflets, booklets and/or hand-held signs. A small group is defined as "25 people or less." A permit is required for any small group that:
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Wants to hold a demonstration or distribute and/or sell printed matter somewhere outside a designated First Amendment area.
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Wants to use equipment (i.e. tables, banners, platforms, etc.) even if it is within a designated area.
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Is merely an extension of another group already availing itself of the 25-person maximum.
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Wants to guarantee they will have priority for the use of a location, including the designated First Amendment areas.
A large group is defined as "more than 25 people" and is required to obtain a First Amendment Permit even if they are utilizing a park-designated First Amendment site.
Some examples of special events that fall under First Amendment Rules:
How to Apply
First Amendment Permits are free of charge. The organizer is requested to provide reasonable notice (preferably 10 business days) of the proposed event to the Special Park Uses Coordinator, including whether there is any reason to believe that there may be an attempt to disrupt, protest, or prevent the activity.
Submitting Special Use Applications may be done by email, mail, UPS, or FedEx.
Email: e-mail us
Valles Caldera National Preserve
P.O. Box 359
Jemez Springs, NM 87025
ATTN: Special Park Uses Coordinator
Valles Caldera National Preserve
090 Villa Luis Martin
Jemez Springs, NM 87025
ATTN: Special Park Uses Coordinator
Special Use Permit Application
The designated area for First Amendment activities at Valles Caldera National Preserve is at the park entrance station along the north side of the parking area.
