Commercial Use Authorization FAQ

What is a Commercial Use Authorization and Why Would I Need One?

When is the application period?

General CUA
The CUA application period opens January 1.

For what length of time is a CUA issued?

CUAs are issued for a one-year period.
The General CUA permit year is from January 1 and closes December 31.

What are the fees for a CUA?

The current fee structure for Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) at Cape Cod National Seashore includes an administrative fee and a management fee:

Why does the park charge a fee for a CUA?

National Park Service Policy requires the Superintendent to charge a reasonable fee for CUAs. The park retains such fees to help pay for the cost of the CUA program.

CUA application fees stay within the park and are used to recover the administrative costs of receiving, reviewing, and processing CUA applications and required reports.

CUA management fees stay within the park and are used to recover day-to-day management, monitoring, and training costs and to fund visitor experience improvement projects.

How long does it take to obtain a CUA?

You should anticipate that you will receive the issuance of a General CUA within two weeks of the CUA authorized start date (dependent upon time of application submission). A minimum of thirty (30) business days is required for issuance of a CUA. Delays will occur if application materials are not submitted accurately or completely, or if authorizations needing operator signature are not returned promptly. All required documentation must be received by before the CUA will be issued.

How do I submit an application?

1. Review all of the application packet checklist items
2. Once you have all of the required documentation, you can submit you application package.
3. Visit https://cua.nps.gov/

• Click on "Opportunities"
• Choose "Search by Park" and search for Cape Cod National Seashore.

What happens once I submit an application?

1. Once we have reviewed your application packet you will be notified if further information is needed. Once we have received and reviewed all required documents, we will notify you of next steps for permit processing in the online system.
2. When you receive a signed permit with the permit holder signature and the Park Superintendent's signature, you will be authorized to conduct your commercial services int he park in accordance with State and Federal regulations and the conditions of your CUA.
3. You are not authorized to begin providing commercial services in the Park until your receive the CUA that has been finalized with both signatures.
4. Monthly Use Reports will be due by the 4th of each month you operate.
5. You will need to submit annual requirements, which includes the annual report, each year, as identified in the Annual Checklist.

More Information

How to Apply for a Commercial Use Authorization
CUA Fees and Payments
Annual Reporting Requirements