Permits
The Forest Service manages the national forests for multiple uses, including recreation, timber, wilderness, minerals, water, grazing, fish and wildlife. Our job is to help people share and enjoy the forest, while conserving the environment for future generations. To help us meet this goal, certain activities, such as firewood collection or event gatherings, require permits, while other activities, such as frequently enjoying day-use areas like boat launches, benefit from passes.
Special Use Permits
Before a special use proposal is approved, the agency must determine that the proposed use complies with the Forest's land and resource management plan; that National Environmental Policy Act requirements are met; there is a demonstrated need for the activity on National Forest System lands; and the use is appropriate on National Forest System lands.
None of the existing special use authorities provide for permanent use of National Forest System lands.
Special use permits for firewood, road access, etc. may be obtained by contacting the appropriate Ranger District Office for more details and information about how to obtain a permit.
Examples of activities that might require a special use permit:
- a fee is being charged or income is derived from the use
- involves 75 or more participants or spectators
- need to occupy, use, or build on forest service land for personal or business purposes, whether the duration is temporary or long term
When DON'T you need a permit?
- When you are gathering edible material (morels, etc.) for your own consumption.
- When you are camping in a dispersed area = outside of a designated recreation area.
- When you are at a site that doesn't require a Recreation Enhancement Act Fee.
- When you are building a campfire on National Forest System lands, you can collect a reasonable quantity of wood for the campfire without a permit.
Season Permit for Hunting on National Wildlife Management Preserves
Hunting Permit
Hunting on most of the Kisatchie National Forest does not require any special permit or requirement other than possessing a valid hunting license from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. However, hunting on the Catahoula and Red Dirt National Wildlife Management Preserves requires a current season permit. This permit is FREE and available for download or you may pick one up at any of our offices. Please sign the permit and keep with you at all times you are on the national wildlife management preserve.