Alaska Region

The occupancy and use of the National Forests is regulated by both the Code of Federal Regulations and by Special Forest Orders.

The applicable section of the Code of Federal Regulations is Title 36: Parks, Forests and Public Property, Part 261: General Prohibitions. These regulations usually don't change often and apply to all National Forest lands. Examples including regulations concerning littering, removing timber or use of motorized equipment in Wilderness areas.

Special Forest Orders are created for specific, local management needs. They are signed by Regional Foresters or Forest Supervisors and are usually posted and kept at the offices closest to the affected area. They can change often and vary in duration. Examples include road or trail closures for fire emergencies, local permit or pass requirements, or trail use restrictions.