Special Use Permits

A Special Use Authorization is a permit, term permit, temporary permit, lease, or easement or other written instrument that grants rights or privileges of occupancy and use subject to specified terms and conditions on National Forest land. The occupancy and use may be for a one-day event such as a wedding or bicycle race, or for up to 40 years such as a ski resort permit.

Our policy is to manage special uses on National Forest lands in a manner that protects natural resource values, public health and safety, and is consistent with the Forest land and resource management plans.

Before a special use proposal is approved, the agency must determine that the proposed use complies with the Forest's land and resource management plan; that National Environmental Policy Act requirements are met; there is a demonstrated need for the activity on National Forest System lands; and the use is appropriate on National Forest System lands.

None of the existing special use authorities provide for permanent use of National Forest System lands.

Examples of special uses that support recreation interests:

• Boat dock and wharf
• Campgrounds and picnic areas
• Organization/private camps
• Shelters
• Outfitter and guide services
• Resorts and marinas
• Vendors and peddlers (mobile concessions)
• Ski areas

Examples of special uses that support community and public information interests:

• Group events (non-recreational purposes such as parades and demonstrations)
• Native American Traditional Religious Activity
• Religious meetings
• Public information & Signs (we try to avoid commercial advertising signs)
• Markers & Monuments (historical markers, roadside markers, summit markers, etc)

Examples of special uses that support research interests:

• Site surveys and testing
• Research and research study
• Experimental and demonstration

Examples of special uses that support industry interests:

• Manufacturing
• Timber processing
• Mineral exploration
• Filming for motion pictures or commercials

Other kinds of special uses include:

• Energy Generation and Transmission
• Transportation
• Communications
• Water (non-power generating)