Utah Field Offices under the Bureau of Land Management administer Special Recreation Permits (SRPs) to regulate several types of land use, including commercial, vendor, competitive, organized group, and special area uses. These authorizations allow for specific recreational uses of public lands and related waters while aiming to minimize resource impacts and user conflicts.
Permit categories and types
The permit program includes several distinct categories. Commercial use permits are required for activities conducted for financial gain, such as outfitters, guides, and shuttle services. Vending permits allow for temporary, short-term authorization to sell goods or services at recreation sites. Competitive use permits cover organized events where participants compete, such as mountain bike races or off-highway vehicle races.
Group activities and special areas
Additionally, the program manages organized group activities and event use for non-commercial purposes like family reunions or organized hiking. Special Area Use permits apply to designated areas including Cedar Mesa, Desolation Canyon, and the San Juan River.
Fee structures for various uses
Fees for these permits vary based on the type of use. As of May 8, 2023, the minimum annual fee for any commercial SRP is $130. Commercial use fees are calculated at 3 percent of gross receipts. For competitive events and organized groups, fees are based on a per-user day rate of $7 per participant per day, or a percentage of gross receipts, or the $130 minimum, whichever is greater.
Location-specific permit costs
Specific fees apply to certain locations. In Westwater Canyon, river permits cost $10 per person, while Desolation Canyon river permits are $40 per person. The San Juan River has varying segment fees ranging from $10 to $30 per person. For the Little Sahara Recreation Area, a one-night camping permit is $18 per vehicle.
Purpose of the permitting system
The BLM recreation permitting system serves as a mechanism to accommodate recreational demand in an equitable and safe manner. The use of these lands through permits represents a privilege subject to specific terms and conditions established by the agency.
