Special Use Permits at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
A special use permit is required for all commercial visitor services and most other non-visitor use activities on refuge lands.
A permit is not required for the general public to visit a national wildlife refuge to engage in wildlife-dependent recreational activities such as wildlife watching, hunting, fishing, photography, environmental education, interpretation, hiking, and camping. However, visitors must comply with all pertinent refuge regulations, state and federal laws, and state hunting and fishing regulations.
Special use permits are required for, but not limited to, the following types of activities:
Commercial Operations
- Guiding and outfitting (hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, river trips, etc.)
- Big game transporting
- Air and water taxi
- Sand and gravel removal
- Woodcutting and removal (including personal use)
- Tent platforms and long term tent camps (including personal use)
More information on commercial operations.
Videography and Commercial Photography
Videography and commercial photography may require a permit depending on the nature of the activity. Learn more
Scientific Research and Monitoring
- Archeological research
- Biological research
- Geological research
- Research and Monitoring Installations* (i.e., weather, climate, seismic, etc.)
Use and Occupancy of Refuge Lands
- Trapping or black bear baiting
- Subsistence (hunting)
- Subsistence (fishing)
*Transportation and utility systems, and other long-term installations, require a right-of-way permit from our Refuge Manager. Special use permits for operations and activities on established rights-of-way are obtained from the Refuge Manager.
Permits issued for commercial visitor uses are subject to a $100 administrative fee which must accompany the application, and following permit issuance, an annual use fee based on activity type and reported client use days, and a fee for any approved reserved land sites.
Application Period
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge accepts permit applications throughout the year.
Contact Us
907-743-9145
Special use permits are obtained by submitting a permit application and other required information. Please contact our office before completing the permit application and the submission of other required information.