Special Use Authorizations

When do I need a special use authorization?

• A permit is required when the outfitting/guiding operation is conducted on National Forest System (NFS) lands or waters. Outfitting and guiding services include but are not limited to hunts, helicopter skiing, and snowmobile, ski, and hiking tours.
• Outfitters based off NFS lands that rent and deliver equipment to the public on NFS lands must obtain a permit if they, their employees, or agents occupy or use NFS lands or waters in connection with their rental programs.

When is a permit NOT required?

• If the operator’s customers transport rented equipment to and from the NFS lands.
• If an operation serves Forest Service employees, Forest Service contractors, or other Federal officials in the course of their official duties.

Is my proposal appropriate?

• Contact the Forest Service office in the area where you wish to conduct your activity. This contact will determine whether your activity meets the following pre-application screening requirements applicable to all special uses:

  1. The proposed use is consistent with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, orders, and policies that apply to national forests and grasslands;
  2. The proposed use is consistent or can be made consistent with the Forest Plan that established standards and guidelines for management of the land where the activity will take place;
  3. The proposed use will not create a serious and substantial risk to public health or safety;
  4. The proposed use will not create an exclusive or perpetual right of use or occupancy;
  5. The proposed use will not unreasonably conflict or interfere with administrative use by the Forest Service, other authorized existing uses, or uses of adjacent non-NFS lands;
  6. The proponent must not owe any fees to the Forest Service from a prior or existing special-use authorization;
  7. The proposed use does not involve gambling or providing of sexually-oriented commercial services, even if permitted under state law;
  8. The proposed use does not involve military or paramilitary training or exercises, unless such training is federally funded;
  9. The proposed use does not involve disposal of solid waste or disposal of radioactive or other hazardous substances.

• If you meet the initial screening requirements, the Forest Service administrator will provide guidance on what information will be required to complete your proposal. If your proposed event does not meet the screening requirements you will be notified that the proposal, as submitted, is denied.
• A proposal that passes the initial screening proceeds to second level screening. Your proposal will be accepted as an application if it meets all of the following:
• 1. The proposed use would be consistent or compatible with the purposes for which the lands are managed; and
  2. The proposed use would be in the public interest; and
  3. The proponent is qualified; and
  4. The proponent can demonstrate technical or financial capability to undertake the use and fully comply with the terms and conditions of the permit; and
  5. There is someone authorized by the proponent to sign a permit or there is someone willing to accept the responsibility of the terms and conditions of the permit. Upon satisfactory passing of this screen the Forest Service will process your request.

Is there a fee?

• The Alaska Region has established a flat fee schedule based on fair market value for outfitting and guiding activities.
• The rate established for commercial bus/van tours to the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center in Portage Valley is $0.97 per client.
• The minimum fee for outfitter/guides on the Alaska Region is $100.
• Other associated Costs - You may be responsible for providing information and reports necessary to determine the feasibility and environmental impacts of your proposal; compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and terms and conditions to be included in the authorization.

Do I need insurance?

• Yes, generally insurance is required. To protect the user and the federal government from losses for which the permittee may be liable, the Forest Service requires permittees to carry commercial general liability insurance naming the U.S. Government as additionally insured and providing a 30-day written notice prior to cancellation. Insurance limits begin at $300,000 combined single limit for lower risk operations involving smaller group sizes. Increased insurance limits may be required based on the amount of use, the risks involved, the protection of users, and the possible liability of the U.S. Government.

How do I apply?

• Submit a completed SF-299 Application to the Ranger District office in the area you would like to operate.
• Submit a completed operating safety plan along with the appropriate appendices that details your operation. You may use your own format but the plan should include, at a minimum:
• 1. A description of the service to be performed
  2. Period of use
  3. Itineraries
  4. Modes of transportation
  5. Total number of clients per trip expected for each activity
  6. Safety plan: safety equipment provided, emergency medical and accident procedures, precautions taken to minimize risk to clients and public etc.
  7. Qualifications of employees and group leaders
  8. Map showing lands and waters to be use with entry and exit points, including reserved sites (if applicable)