Special Use Permits
The National Park Service requires permits for activities not normally associated with visiting the national seashore. For more information about activities requiring permits and how to apply, see the information below.
Activities such as weddings, sporting events, public assemblies, religious ceremonies, pavilion rentals, filming, audio recording, and photography. For all the rules for special use permits and what falls under this category visit the Gulf Islands Special Use Permit page.
Special Use Permit applications should be submitted as soon as possible but the park prefers at least a minimum of two weeks in advance to allow time for processing. Permitted facilities are first-come, first-serve.
Prior to filling out a permit request, please familiaize yourself with the park rules. To request a permit fill out theapplication here and email it to GUIS_Special_Use_Permits@nps.gov
Other types of permits:
- Commercial Use Authorizations: Commercial activities within the national seashore are limited, but some are permitted through the Commercial Use Authorization.
- Research Permits: Research and collection activities within Gulf Islands National Seashore are managed to prevent damage to the resources, to coordinate research activities, and to assist in the application of science to the management of the Seashore.
- Scattering Cremated Remains: With limitations, the National Park Service normally grants permission to those wishing to scatter cremated remains within the boundary of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Please remove all items following the ceremony to include flowers.
- Wilderness Island Camping: Groups of 10 or more campers on Horn or Petit Bois islands must obtain a wilderness camping permit.
