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

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

 

On
  • 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. Recreational providers must register and obtain a permit prior to conducting activities in a state park. Registration for a Commercial Use Permit requires completion of the application, proof of insurance, and paying the appropriate fees. The permit is valid for a calendar year (Jan 1 - Dec 31).
  • Campers and dog at park store

    Concessions Program

    Concessionaires offer many goods and 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. Concessionaires typically have a fixed site within the park such as a building, temporary structure or mobile vehicle and may advertise within the park. State parks contracts with a variety of small businesses through concession agreements to offer services that contribute to high quality experiences for park visitors. Standard concession agreements can range from one season to up to five-years and may be extended beyond five years. 
  • 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.
  • Blake Island shore with buoyed boats, forests, Puget Sound

    Moorage Permit

    Annual permit waives moorage fee at State Park marine facilities.
  • Sage brush covered hills with bridge crossing highway

    Real Property Agreements

    Permits, Easements, and Leases
  • Kayaker at Columbia Hills State park

    Natural Investment Permit

    Annual permit waives watercraft launch, trailer dump and day-use parking fees in 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.
  • 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.