Many different activities on OSMP lands require a permit. Detailed information about permits is below.
If you are applying for a permit for usage in 2024, please wait until Wednesday, December 13, 2023. 2024 applications will not be accepted before this date without written permission from the permit administrator.
It is imperative as a permit holder that you are aware of which designated trails are open for your particular activities and what the restrictions are for that trail. Permits do not grant exclusive use of any site.
Weddings, ceremonies, elopements and other stationary events are only permitted to occur at designated shelters and facilities on OSMP lands.
The grassy lawn at Chautauqua Park is managed by City of Boulder Parks and Recreation and can be reserved by calling 303-413-7200. then "O" for the operator.
Unsure of which permit you might need? Answer a few questions in the guide to find out if you need a Commercial Use, Special Use and/or Film Permit.
If you charge a fee or raise funds while using OSMP lands, you need to have a commercial use permit. Commercial liability insurance PDF is required. Note: Competitive events are prohibited on OSMP; Boulder Revised Code 8-8-10.
Note: Operating drones is prohibited on OSMP lands.
Most filming projects on OSMP lands require a commercial use permit. You may request an exemption from the commercial use permit requirement if you are working on a student project or something similar. For more information please email OSMPPermits@bouldercolorado.gov. Photographers note: Still photography shoots only need a commercial use permit and do not need to submit a film permit to OSMP.
All film permit applicants must also submit a City of Boulder Filming Application.
Renting Picnic Shelters and Facilities
Facilities on Flagstaff Mountain may be rented in advance for weddings, picnics, parties or other events.
Guidelines for Alcohol Permits
Alcohol permits will only be issued in connection with a confirmed Open Space and Mountain Parks shelter or facility use permit.
Information and instructions to obtain wood that is available to the public and a calendar showing wood availability.
View the Memorials and Donations Policy PDF. Please email Megan Grunewald for more information on memorials.
The Off-Trail Permit Program allows visitors to obtain a free permit to travel off designated trails in Habitat Conservation Areas (HCAs).
Open Space Parking Permits and Fees
Visitors whose vehicles are not registered in Boulder County must possess a daily ($5) or annual ($25) permit to park at some trailheads.
Environmental Education Programs for Schools and Community Groups
Open Space & Mountain Parks provides free environmental education programs for schools and community groups.
Research, Collection, and Field-Course Permit Applications
Anyone who wishes to conduct research on OSMP, or collect animals or plants on OSMP, or use OSMP for field-course studies, requires a permit.
Special use permits are required for any passive recreational group activity with 25 or more participants.
Information on how to register for the Voice and Sight Tag Program or renew your dogs' Voice and Sight Tags each year.
