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Recreation Residences
Olympic National Forest Recreation Residences are privately owned cabins located on National Forest lands that are part of the Special Use Permit Program. The recreation residence program has been in existence since 1915 and provides a unique recreational experience. The land is not sold by the U.S. Forest Service, but rather a recreation lot administered with a Special Use Term Permit (not as a lease and the permit is currently a 20 year term), and an annual land use fee paid by the cabin owner. Recreation residences are maintained by the occupant for personal, family, and guest enjoyment. They are not authorized for commercial use (vacation rental), or as a permanent residence, and do not provide exclusive use of the recreation lot for the permit holder. Recreation cabins may be rented (incidental rental as defined by the IRS) for no more than 14 days per calendar year and each rental requires authorization in writing from the Forest Supervisor.
For more information, review the documents below or contact Realty Specialist Annabelle Pfeffer at 360-956-2294 or annabelle.pfeffer@usda.gov
Project Proposals
Cabin owners must receive written approval from the Forest Service before starting any project that disturbs the soil/vegetation or that affects the exterior of the cabin, as outlined in their Special Use Permit. The first step in the project approval process is to complete and submit a Project Proposal form.
All project proposals should be submitted for review during a period called “Open Season,” which lasts from August 1 – September 15 every year.
- Projects submitted within this timeframe will likely be approved for implementation during the following dry season.
- Factors that will determine the time it takes to complete the analysis of your proposal include complexity of the proposal, completeness of the proposal, and cabin and tract eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places.
- If you have a complex project (such as a rebuild, addition, or major infrastructure project), it’s advised that you submit it during the Open Season the year before you would like to begin work.
- Emergency repairs are an exception and can be submitted year-round
Helpful Links
- Operation and Maintenance Plan – Olympic NF Recreation Residence
- Self-Inspection Form – Due Annually by August 15
- Guide to Maintaining Your Recreational Home's Historic Character
- Cabin Fee Act FAQ
- Recreation Residence Transfer Guide – Info for New Cabin Owners
- Sample Special Use Permit for Recreation Residence
- Transfer Form (FS2700-3a)
- Hazard Tree Information Guide and Request Form
- New Permittee Checklist