Permits

Some activities require you to register and get a permit. Annual permits can save you money on moorage, boat launch and Sno-Park fees.

Activity information and registration pages

When applying for a permit for an activity in a park, such as the Special Activity Permit, Filming and Photography Permit and the Remote Controlled Aircraft Permit, you'll need to contact the park directly. Use the Parks contact list to learn who to contact.

Metal detecting and Paragliding/hang-gliding are allowed at some parks.  Both activities require that you register.

 

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  • People walking with camera.

    Commercial Filming and Photography Permits

    Learn about the type of permits and other requirements needed to engage in professional, commercial and educational filming and photography at Washington State Parks.
  • Group of kayakers with paddles held high

    Commercial Use Permit

    A Commercial Use Permit is required for all businesses and non-profit businesses that conduct recreational business activities in a Washington State Park or on State Park managed land.
  • Campers and dog at park store

    Concessions Program

    Concessionaires offer many services that State Parks cannot, in most cases, provide. Concessions range from food service and campground stores to recreational equipment rentals, equestrian experiences, guided tours and glamping.
  • Blake Island shore with buoyed boats, forests, Puget Sound

    Moorage Permit

    This annual permit waives the moorage fee at State Park marine facilities.
  • Kayaker at Columbia Hills State park

    Natural Investment Permit

    Annual permit waives watercraft launch, trailer dump and day-use parking fees in all Washington State Parks.
  • New trestle build along the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.

    Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail Registration

    The roughly 150 mile Eastern portion of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail requires registration.
  • Sage brush covered hills with bridge crossing highway

    Real Property Agreements

    Permits, Easements, and Leases
  • Snowy mountain range sits beyond field of snow

    Remote Controlled Aircraft Permit

    State parks allows the use of remote-controlled aircraft, also known as drones or unmanned aircraft systems, on a limited basis. Permits are required for each instance of use.
  • Tidepool research

    Scientific Research Permit

    The diverse resources within Washington State Parks offer a variety of research opportunities. Conducting research in a state park requires a research permit.
  • Dogs pulling sled along snowy trail

    Sno-Park Permits

    A Sno-Park permit grants access to any of the 120+ winter recreation sites maintained by the Winter Recreation program across the state.
  • Deception Pass Bridge with marathon runners, running across bridge.

    Special Activities Permit

    Washington State Parks are popular spots for weddings, company picnics, community festivals, scouting events, and organized recreational events such as adventure races and fun runs.