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 Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument;
- Will have minimal impact on Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument's resources and values;
- Are consistent with Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument'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 at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument,
-
use park resources, and
-
result in compensation, monetary gain, benefit, or profit.
The Following Services Require CUAs in Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
- Guided Services, including biking, hiking, non-water associated camping, running, skiing, snowshoeing, birding, snowmobiling, nature tours, photography tours, artists, horseback riding
- Water, Fishing, and Hunting Activities, including kayaking, canoeing, guided fishing, guided hunting
- Shuttle Services
- Livery Services
How do I apply for a CUA?
- CUA applications will be accepted through an online system starting in 2025: Home - Commercial Use Authorization
- 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 CA 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.
- Failure to submit the required reports or misrepresentation of statistics or earnings may result in the inability to submit subsequent CUA applications via the online CUA system or the suspension of active CUAs.
CUA Office Contact Information
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
PO Box 446
Patten, ME 04765
Email the CUA office
Important Links
