Permits & Reservations

Special Park Uses

Certain types of activities require a Special Use Permit (SUP). These include sports events, public spectator atttractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events, provided there is a meaningful association between the park and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the park area . . ." [36 CFR 2.50].

A special park use is defined as an activity that takes place in a park area, and that:

• provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization rather than the public at large
• requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the National Park Service (NPS) in order to protect park resources and the public interest
• is not prohibited by law or regulation
• is not initiated, sponsored, or conducted by the NPS
• is not managed under a concession contract, a recreation activity for which the NPS charges a fee, or a lease

Activities and events that require Special Use Permits include:

• Sports events, public spectator attractions, pageants
• First Amendment activities with more than 25 participants

First Amendment Activities

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. Therefore, all First Amendment activities with over 25 participants require special use permits, and the park may regulate the time, place, and manner in which they are conducted. First Amendment activities with less than 25 participants who utilize designated areas do not require a permit (per 36 CFR 2.51), unless the group uses amplified sound. Hand carried signs may be used, but stages, platforms, or structures may not be used without a permit.

First Amendment permit requests will be processed within 10 business days. Some examples of special events that require permits (per 36 CFR 2.51) include:

• Distribution and/or sale of printed matter (over 25 participants)
• Religious services
• Scattering of ashes
• Public demonstrations or assemblies, etc. (over 25 participants)
• Collecting signatures for petitions

Miscellaneous Activities

Other activities may require permits if there is the potential for interference with visitor use, congestion of highly visited areas, or possible impacts on park resources.

Special Use Permit Process

Download an application:

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

Special instructions are listed on the application forms; please read them carefully. A completed application must be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee of $150 in the form of a cashier's check or money order made payable to the National Park Service. Applications for First Amendment activities do not require an application fee.

Mail completed applications to:

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
Attn: Special Use Permit Coordinator
PO Box 446
Patten, ME 04765