Permits & Reservations

Special Use Permits

If you would like to hold a special event or activity in the park, you need to apply for a special use permit. A non-refundable application fee is required at the time of the application.

Special Use Permits authorizes short-term activities that benefit an individual, group, or organization, rather than the public at large; and that require written authorization and management control in order to protect park resources and the public interest. These permits are issues and approved only after National Park Service staff determines that the activity will not impair park values, resources, and visitor enjoyment.

Special Use Permits may be required for filming and/or photography (see below), special events such as weddings and other ceremonies, meetings, gatherings, First Amendment activities, and other activities that are otherwise controlled or prohibited.

Note: This is an application only and does not serve as permission for use of the park. Please allow a minimum of two weeks for your application to be processed.

Special Use Permit Forms

• Application for Special Use Permit
• Application For Special Use Permit Filming / Still Photography
• Application for SUP Demonstrations and Distribution of Materials

For all information pertaining to permits, contact:

Special Use Coordinator
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
5242 S. State Hwy ZZ
Republic, MO. 65738
Phone: [phone] Ext. 227

 

Filming and Still Photography

• In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:
  • Occurs in areas open to the public;

  • Uses hand-carried equipment only;

  • Does not require exclusive use of a site;

  • Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and

  • Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS.

• Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity.

• All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under the new law. It does not matter whether it is commercial, non-commercial, for content creation, by a student, or conducted by media or for news gathering.

• When a filming, still photography, or audio recording permit is required, the National Park Service will charge location fees and fees to recover its costs to administer the permit, including application fees.

• Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording remain subject to all other laws and regulations applicable to visitors to park areas, including those requiring permits for certain activities (e.g., special events or demonstrations) and those prohibiting disturbance or other negative impacts to natural or cultural resources.

• Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording are subject to entrance and/or recreation fees that may apply in park areas even when a permit is not required.