Open Space Permits

Special Event and Commercial Permit Applications

A permit is required for special events and commercial uses that take place on Open Space and Trails properties, including filming and photo shoots, commercial boating/paddling and fishing operations. There is a $165 fee to process a permit application. Nonprofit organizations are exempt from the fee, but an event permit is still required. Nonprofits that charge a fee for guiding/instructing are defined as commercial users under Title 12 of the Pitkin County Land Use Code. Use restrictions that apply to commercial users will apply to nonprofits under this Title 12 provision, as well. Commercial use fees are charged, per user, for North Star, whitewater boating, fishing and paragliding permits.

NORTH STAR PERMITS
Commercial operators (shuttle services/guides) wishing to operate at North Star Nature Preserve in 2023 must complete the Open Space and Trails permit process by March 1, 2023. Operators must also obtain Forest Service authorization to use the Wildwood launch site in order to operate at North Star. The application deadline to the Forest Service is March 15, 2023; applicants must secure Open Space and Trails permit first.

NO COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY IS PERMITTED AT NORTH STAR 
The only commercial uses allowed at North Star are river guiding/shuttling and paragliding, per the North Star Nature Preserve Management Plan.

NO SPECIAL EVENTS ARE PERMITTED AT NORTH STAR

SKY MOUNTAIN PARK PERMITS
See the Sky Mountain Park Management Plan (page 53) for regulations regarding commercial use and special use (events) at Park. Town of Snowmass Village permit also required. Commercial use limited to groups of 6 people; commercial events limited to two annually and capped at 100 participants each. Event application deadline is April 15 of each year.

REDSTONE / ELK PARK PERMITS
See below for permit/fee information specifically for Redstone Park and Elk Park. There is a $55 permit fee for private events of more than 20 people.

LIABILITY INSURANCE REQUIREMENT
Please note, organizers of special events and commercial activities on Open Space and Trails properties must provide a certificate of liability insurance naming Pitkin County as additionally insured. The required limits are $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 general aggregate.

The management plans for some open space properties restrict or prohibit events and commercial uses. In addition, Title 12 regulates permitted uses on open space.

To Submit a Permit Application
Use this online form to submit an application for a commercial or event permit.

Application questions can be directed to Janet Urquhart at 970-920-5223 or Rick Norman at 970-920-5399, or email web_open_space@pitkincounty.com 

SENIOR PARKING PASS - HUNTER CREEK VALLEY
A senior parking pass for the Hunter Creek Valley lot is available from Pitkin County Senior services, 0275 Castle Creek Road. Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Seniors must present a driver's license to obtain a pass.

REDSTONE AND ELK PARKS
Special regulations apply to the use of Redstone and Elk parks. A special use application must be submitted for park use.

GOLD BUTTE CLIMBING AREA
The Gold Butte Management Plan outlines the regulations for commercial and special use of this climbing area.