What is a CUA?
A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service that authorizes an individual, group, company, or other for-profit entity to conduct commercial activities and provide specific visitor services within a national park area. The National Park Service will only issue CUAs for commercial activities and visitor services that:
- Are determined to be an appropriate use of Fire Island National Seashore
- Will have minimal impact on Fire Island National Seashore’s resources and values; and
- Are consistent with Fire Island National Seashore’s purpose, management plans, policies, and regulations.
A CUA may be required if you, as an individual, organization, or company, provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for members, clients, or the public that:
- take place at least in part inside the boundaries of Fire Island National Seashore’s lands or waters
- use park resources, and
- result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit.
The Following Services Require CUAs at Fire Island National Seashore
- Boat tours
- Water Taxiservice
- Pedicab service
- Fitness/Yoga classes
- Surfing lessons
Other types of businesses not listed here who plan to operate inside the boundaries of Fire Island National Seashore should contact the Seashore’s CUA office (information below).
How do I apply for a CUA?
- Go to Fire Island National Seashore’s NPS Commercial Use Authorization page
- NPS is excited to announce the development and deployment of the online CUA system. The system is designed to standardize, modernize, and streamline the CUA application and reporting process. The system allows potential CUA applicants and CUA holders to view available CUA opportunities, apply for CUAs, submit required CUA reports, and pay CUA fees.
What are the CUA Reporting Requirements?
CUA holders must submit an annual report via the online CUA system each year by January 31 for the operations that occurred during the preceding year. This report provides the park with visitation statistics, reportable injury data, and a record of annual gross receipts.
CUA Office Contact Information
Sonia Taiani, Concessions Management and Permits Specialist
e-mail us
631-569-2100
Helpful Links
Fire Island National Seashore’s NPS Commercial Use Authorization page
