POINT REYES STATION, Marin County — People planning a wedding, organized group gathering, film shoot or other special activity at Point Reyes National Seashore should review the National Park Service’s updated permit guidance before setting a date or paying vendors.
According to the park’s special-use permits page, its application fee increased to $100 effective June 1, 2026. The agency also lists separate administrative fees for different categories of approved activity, including commonly requested weddings and group events. The application charge is nonrefundable and does not guarantee a permit.
Not every visit requires a special-use permit
Ordinary recreation, sightseeing and hiking should not be confused with a formally organized event requiring review. The park’s basic information page states that Point Reyes National Seashore does not charge a general entrance fee.
Special permits can apply to large organized picnics, sporting events, weddings, some commercial activities and other uses subject to National Park Service rules. Because filming and photography rules can depend on the nature of an activity, organizers should check the park’s current permit definitions rather than assume any camera requires permission or that all filming is exempt.
Budget for more than the application fee
The National Park Service’s October 2026 permit information describes standardized administrative charges of $200 for some routine events, $375 for larger organized sporting events, and $450 for many filming and photography activities. The actual total depends on the category and park review. Contact the permitting office before submitting money or advertising an event as approved.
The agency advises that initial review may take 4–15 business days, while final preparation and approval can take longer. Applicants should allow sufficient time for site restrictions, wildlife protections, parking limitations and other conditions.
Where to ask questions
The park’s main visitor information point, the Bear Valley Visitor Center, is located at 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station. The National Park Service lists the park information number as 415-464-5100.
For a permit, use the specific contacts and instructions on the NPS Permits & Reservations page; visitor center staff may direct applicants to a specialist.
Featured photograph: Christian Lendl / Unsplash. Point Reyes Lighthouse, illustrative of the park; not an image of the permitting process.
Sources: Point Reyes National Seashore official October 2026 special-use permit guidance, visitor center information and park basic information. Permit decisions are made by the National Park Service, not California58.
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