Pueblo, CO…Significant increases in the use of National Forest System (NFS) lands and resources have also increased the impacts to forest health, user conflicts, and safety concerns. It wasn’t until August of this year when a revision to our regulations went into effect that requires special use authorizations (permits) for several categories of uses that previously did not require authorization. Uses now requiring special use permits that didn’t in the past include Commercial outfitters/guides use on existing roads and trails. Forest Service managers now have a means to balance user needs while managing the use.

A previous loophole in the 36 CFR 251, Subpart-B regulations prevented the Forest Service from managing concerns and conflicts resulting from the use of NFS roads and trails by commercial entities and large groups. It also created inequities between commercial businesses that obtained special use authorizations with associated fees and those who did not. The revision allows regulation of special uses to meet management objectives and it promotes fairness and consistency in the special uses program.

If you operate a commercial business or charge clients on roads and/or trails on NFS lands you now need to obtain a permit for that activity. Please contact your local Forest Service office well in advance to inquire if a special use permit is required.