Superintendent's Compendium

 

A. INTRODUCTION

1. Superintendent’s Compendium Described

The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.

The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park system, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.

As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.

Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.

A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.

This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, tp understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment more fully of all the areas of the National Park System.

A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at:

Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954

The CFR is also available online at 36 CFR Vol. 1 -2021

2. Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This Compendium

The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) §102701 (Organic Act of 1916, as amended) to:

…regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks…which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment for future generations (54 U.S.C. §100101).

In addition, the NPS Organic Act allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to;

make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the use and management of the parks, monuments, and reservations under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service(54 U.S.C. §100501).

In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970 (54 U.S.C. §100101-101301), Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.

In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970, and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating:

Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.

54 U.S.C. §100501 defines the National Park System as:

…any areas of land and water now or hereafter administered by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational, or other purposes.

In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, of the National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitors and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, and where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.

3. Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and Requirements

The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.

4. Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium

As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:

• Is there use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
• Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
• Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
• Will the use or activity disturb or conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
• Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
• Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?

5. Applicability of the Compendium

The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federally-owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.

6. Enforcement of Compendium Requirements

NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United State Code, 36 CFR, assimilated state regulations, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.

7. Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Requirements

A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.

8. Comments on the Compendium

The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time.

9. Effective Date of the Superintendent Compendium

The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.

10. Additional Information

Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.

11. Availability

Copies of the Compendium are available for viewing at Acadia National Park, 33 McFarland Hill Drive, Bar Harbor, Maine. It may also be found online at Acadia National Park Laws and Policies.

B. SUPERINTENDENT’S COMPENDIUM: AUTHORITY

In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code §100501, the following regulatory provisions are established for the proper management, protection, government and public use of those portions of Acadia National Park and St. Croix Island International Historic Site under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.

Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.

I. 36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES

Note: Violations under this section should be cited under §1.5(f) but include the specific compendium section as a subheading on the citation.

(a)(1) The following visiting hours, public use limits, and closures are established for Acadia National Park and St. Croix Island International Historic Site:

Emergency, Environmental and Administrative Closures

The park may need to enact unscheduled closures of the park, or restrict access to areas of the park, for public safety and the protection of park resources. Unscheduled closures which do not appear in the annual Superintendent’s Compendium, are enacted under the authority of the Superintendent or their designee. Public notice of such closures will be with the use of signage at area access points, press releases and information posted on the park website.

Hours of Operation

Hours of operation are general closures and do not account for special use permits signed by the superintendent, registered guests, or park-sponsored events. For the purposes of enforcement, dark is defined as the time between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.

The following areas are closed to motor vehicles at dark:

• Carroll Homestead
• Lake Wood
• Thompson Island Picnic Area and Parking Area

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Parking Lot are closed to all visitors and to motor vehicles at dark.
St. Croix Island International Historic Site is closed to motor vehicles from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. and to all visitors at dark.

Determinations: To protect natural and archeological resources at St. Croix Island International Historic Site, the park is closed to motor vehicles when staff is not on site. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Parking Lot, Carroll Homestead, Lake Wood, Thompson Island Picnic Area, and St. Croix Island IHS are closed at dark to deter underage drinking, vandalism and damage to resources, disorderly conduct, and out of bounds camping. Bass Harbor Head Light also serves as employee housing and the closure at dark helps provide privacy.

Seasonal Closures

The following seasonal road and parking lot closures for vehicles are based upon weather conditions, available funding, and available personnel:

Facilities and Attractions:

Location	Opening Date	Closing Date
Thompson Island Picnic Area	April 16	December 1
Bear Brook Picnic Area	May 14	October 15
Pretty Marsh Picnic Area	May 26	October 21
Carroll Farm Road and House	May 7	October 21
Hulls Cove Visitor Center	May 5	October 31
Islesford Museum	June 26	September 30

Determinations: These sites are closed in the off-season to due to significantly decreased visitor demand, staffing limitations, no trash collection, and no cleaning staff. Buildings are closed for the winter because of the potential for freeze damage and due to operational costs associated with winter use.

Campgrounds:

Location	Opening Date	Closing Date
Blackwoods Campground: Individual Sites	May 5	October 16, 2023
Blackwoods Campground: Group Sites	May 15	October 9, 2023
Seawall Campgound: Select Sites	Wednesday before Memorial Day Weekend	October 9, 2023
Schoodic Woods Campground All Sites	Wednesday before Memorial Day Weekend	October 9, 2023
Duck Harbor Campground Isle au Haut	Wednesday before Memorial Day Weekend	October 9, 2023

Determination: All facilities are closed to campers during the off-season due to significantly decreased visitor demand and limited staffing and funding levels.

Roads:

Cadillac Summit Road is managed by a vehicle reservation system from May 24 to October 22, 2023. When the vehicle reservation system is operating, the road is closed to all vehicles without a valid reservation, with the exception of commercial taxis and rideshare services. During the reservation season, Cadillac Summit Road is closed to all vehicles at 10 pm.

Determination: Historic vehicle congestion on this road system interferes with public safety access and visitor egress. Vehicle congestion causes routine traffic backups lead to both cultural and natural resource damage. The reservation system was implemented to manage vehicle access to match the designated parking spaces available on the Cadillac Summit Road system and to enhance the visitor experience. Vehicle reservations are available through Recreation.gov.

The overnight closure during the reservation system prevents camping outside a designated areacampground and vehicles entering an area controlled by the reservation system with specific quotas based on the number of parking spaces.

Location	Opening Date	Closing Date
Blackwoods Campground Road	May 5	October 16
Beech Mountain Road Parking Area	April 15	December 1
Cadillac Summit Road	May 11	December 1
Fish House Road	April 15	December 1
Park Loop Road and all its entrances (excluding the section between the Entrance Station at Schooner Head Road and the intersection with Otter Cliff Road at Fabbri Picnic Area, which is open year round)	April 15	December 1
Saint Croix Island International Historic Site Entrance Road	April 15	Veterans Day Weekend
All Gravel Roads	May 15	November 15
Seawall Campground Road	May 24	Oct 9
Echo Lake Beach Road	April 15	December 1
Lake Wood Road	June 1	October 15
Thompson Island Parking Areas	April 15	December 1
Wildwood Stables Parking Area	May 26	December 1

Determinations: Roads are closed to vehicle use (see CFR 7.56 for snowmobile exceptions) on the dates shown due to the increased probability of ice, snow, rock falls and downed trees. During periods of ice, snow, emergency or other hazardous conditions including inclement weather, road construction, maintenance or other cause, park roads may be closed to ensure public safety and resource protection. Gravel roads are closed in the spring until the roads dry and harden enough to support vehicle traffic. They are closed in the fall to deter roadside poaching and to open routes for snowmobile use.

Notes: Park roads may not be open on the dates shown if snow, ice or other weather variables create unsafe travel conditions for motor vehicles or where travel results in excessive damage to road surfaces in the case of gravel roads. The superintendent authorizes emergency closures to roadways as needed to provide for the safety and welfare of the visiting public and to allow for construction.

Parkwide Closures

The use of generators within Acadia National Park (outside of their approved use in campgrounds) at parking lots or roadside is prohibited.

Determination: Generators left running for any period of time on any occupied or unoccupied vehicle create noise and air pollution. An exception is made for those vehicles in approved campsites due to the limited amount of time and specific times of the day that are set aside for generator use in that area.

The use of motorized scooters in the park is prohibited.

Determination: Motorized Scooters are defined as having either 2 or 3 wheels fewer than 10 inches in diameter and either a gas motor less than 25 cc or electric motor up to 750 watts. These scooters are considered motorized vehicles so are not permitted on the carriage roads. These scooters cannot go faster than 20 mph and start to obstruct traffic on the motor roads. Their use on motorized roads creates safety issues on the roadway due to a lack of road shoulder, coping stones lining the road side and the conflict of use with vehicular traffic.

Size limits for organized groups on trails, carriage roads, and road corridors is 20 individuals on MDI. Groups larger than this must apply for a Special Use Permit

Size limits for organized groups on trails, bike paths, and road corridors at Schoodic Peninsula is 15. Groups larger than this must apply for a Special Use Permit

Size limit for stationary events of organized groups such as a picnic or family reunion on MDI is 30 individuals. Groups larger than this must apply for a Special Use Permit

Size limits for stationary events of organized groups such as a picnic or family reunion at Schoodic Peninsula is 15 individuals except for Frazer Point which allows 30 individuals. Groups larger than this must apply for a Special Use Permit

Group size limits at Isle au Haut is 8.

Determination: Group Size limits were established to ensure that all visitors maintain equal access to the park. Larger group sizes cause congestion on trails, fill parking lots and impact other visitors to Acadia. Schoodic and Isle au Haut group sizes are smaller due to the separate management plans that focus on providing solitude and a wilderness experience.

The public use of ATVs and UTVs is prohibited except for the loading and unloading of registered ATVs at boat launches to access the Great Ponds for the purposes of ice fishing.

Determination: The natural and cultural resource damage caused by unauthorized use of ATVs has long been established within the park. The closure does not apply to administrative use of ATVs and UTVs.

Note: Although ATVs and UTVs modified with tracks meet the state definition for snowmobiles, ATVs and UTVs modified for winter use or tracked vehicles such as Snowdogs do not fall under the 36 CFR definition of a snowmobile and are therefore prohibited.

Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft (drone) from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Acadia National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including recreation or commerce.

Determination: While park managers understand the benefits of limited use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for research, for administrative use, and to provide for the public’s safety and welfare, public use of UAS and remote controlled model aircraft for recreational purposes is not a compatible use based upon the purpose of the park’s establishment, the protection of scenic values, noise, potential conflicts with wildlife, visitors expectation of privacy, potential conflict among visitor use activities, and intrusion on other visitor’s enjoyment of the park. In cases where UAS use is determined to be less intrusive than alternatives, UAS use will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All park bridges are closed to climbing and bouldering.

Determination: The closure is to protect the historic park bridges. All carriage road and Park Loop Road bridges are cultural resources and are either listed or nominated in the National Register of Historic Places

The use of Other Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) by individuals with mobility restrictions within Acadia allowed in areas that can safely accommodate the device without natural or cultural resource damages. Permits will be granted to the individual on an annual basis.

Determination: Due to narrow trail widths, and uneven surfaces, and steep topography, overall safety considerations preclude the use of most motorized assistance on many hiking trails. Some areas (but not limited to) recommended are portions of the Cadillac Summit Loop, the Ship Harbor Trail, Jesup Path and Hemlock Road, Ocean Path, Compass Harbor, and Schooner Head Trail.

Anchoring or tying a watercraft to the shore throughout the park is prohibited unless attended or otherwise prohibited.

Determination: The closure is to protect park resources from damage, user conflicts and obstruction to other visitors, and the risk of other visitors interfering with another’s property.

The use of e-cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) is subject to the same restrictions as tobacco smoking.

Determination: This policy applies to both indoor and outdoor areas. Research indicates that vaping aerosols have some level of risk for nearby people in areas with limited ventilation and people with compromised health conditions. Available published studies evaluating the potential hazardous effects of the natural and/or synthetic chemicals used in ENDS indicate that potential health effects exist for users and those exposed secondhand.

Marijuana is still considered a controlled substance on federal lands and the use and possession should be addressed using 36 CFR 2.35 and other applicable regulations.

Traditional Geocaching is prohibited. (See also 36 CFR § 2.22 -- PROPERTY.)

Determination: Due to concerns of unchecked development of traditional geocaches and the resultant development of associated social trails in areas of archeological, scenic, and biological significance, and the concern of geocache placement in unsafe areas, public development of traditional caches is prohibited. However, park-reviewed and -approved EarthCaches, a virtual and educational form of caching, poses an acceptable alternative for the caching community.

Road and Vehicle Closures and Use Limits

Duck Brook Road between Duck Brook Bridge and West Street Extension is closed to motorized vehicles:
Note: The closure includes Class 2 and 3 e-bikes other than those being used for mobility purposes

Determination: A collapse of the retaining wall removed a section of the roadway. With no public complaints about the closure and after hearing many comments from bicyclists in support of the closure, park management has decided to keep the road closed to motorized vehicles.

All passenger carrying buses (excluding the island explorer) must shut off their engines when not underway.

Determination: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park. Due to the nature of the service provided by the natural gas-powered shuttle buses, they are excluded from the requirement.

Bubble Pond Parking Area is closed to motorized vehicles during the Island Explorer season (generally the third week in June to mid-October.)

Determinations: The Bubble Pond Parking Area is closed to vehicles while the Island Explorer is in operation. The closure is in effect because cars routinely blocked the shuttle bus lane and caused public safety issues when the lot was open to general parking.

Duck Harbor Brook Road and Western Head Road on Isle au Haut are closed to all unauthorized motor vehicles including e-bikes.

Determinations: The Duck Harbor Brook Road closure ensures the low intensity use described in P.L. 97-335, and a higher degree of solitude and natural quiet appropriate for this remote island unit of Acadia. Both of these roads have dead ends and neither provides adequate space for the public to turn their vehicles around. Both roads are rugged and are not regularly maintained, and neither road is wide enough to permit two-way traffic.

Hio Fire Road and Marshall Brook Fire Road are closed to motor vehicles except snowmobiles.

Determination: These roads are closed to provide for alternative recreational opportunities, such as bird watching, bicycling, cross country skiing, dog walking, and snowshoeing without the negative impacts associated with motorized vehicle use. The Hio Fire Road provides for emergency egress for campers in event of roadway flooding of 102A.

Parking

Roadside parking is prohibited.

Parking is permitted only in:

• designated spaces in parking lots and in paved and established gravel pull-outs; and
• the right lane of the one-way section of Park Loop Road from Bear Brook Picnic Area to the Stanley Brook Road junction, unless otherwise posted.

Determination: In an effort to reduce roadside resource damage from cars parked off road, and to reduce visual obtrusions created by developing additional parking facilities, park management has offered this portion of the one-way Park Loop Road to parked vehicles.

Note: Roadway parking is prohibited in all locations in the Schoodic District.

Whenever any vehicle has been left unattended in violation of an existing traffic control device or parked in such a manner as to obstruct traffic, compromise public safety, or damage park resources, the registered owner or vehicle renter shall be subject to the penalty for such violations.

Determination: Due to limited availability of parking, the unpredictable and ubiquitous presence of pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the close proximity of natural and cultural resources along park roadways, this restriction is required to allow management to hold vehicle owners, lessees, or renters accountable for their actions or the actions of those they have allowed to operate their vehicle.

Carriage Roads

Carriage roads are closed to all forms of use during seasonal thaw periods.

Determination: Administrative closures are posted on site and announced to the public in area newspapers, posted on social media and Acadia National Park's website. Significant resource damage to the historic roads occurs when they are subjected to uncontrolled visitor use at this time due to the soft nature of the carriage roads during the spring thaw. Not all roads heave and thaw at the same time, so closures may affect only portions of the carriage roads.

Carriage roads are closed all motorized vehicles except for limited snowmobile use under 36 CFR 7.56 and Class 1 e-bike use under 36 CFR 4.30. Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on carriage roads.

Determination: Pursuant to NPS Policy Memorandum 19-01 dated August 30, 2019, Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes (as defined in the memo) were separated from the 36 CFR definition of a motorized vehicle. In November 2020 the final rules on e-bikes in the NPS was published in the federal register which directed parks to treat e-bikes under the bicycle regulations rather than as a motorized vehicle. The final rule still allows for superintendents to determine locations for the use of e-bikes.

Under the Policy Memo, the final rule in 2020, and the state of Maine definitions, Class 1 e-bikes are defined as: “an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.”

Class 2 e-bikes are prohibited from the carriage roads because they can be powered by a throttle that does not require the rider to pedal.

The speed limit for all types of uses on the carriage roads is 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are capable of traveling 28 mph and are prohibited on the carriage roads because of the potential for exceeding the speed limit. The Class 3 capability of high speed increases safety risks in the context of a gravel surface shared by high concentrations of slower-moving pedestrians and equestrians, including horse-drawn carriages, traditional bicyclists, and runners.

The NPS will not issue Commercial Use Authorizations for any activity involving e-bike use specific to the carriage roads such as guided tours while monitoring the potential impacts of this new use.

Notes: A special regulation for Acadia National Park (36 CFR § 7.56) allows the use of snowmobiles on a limited portion of the carriage roads.

The use of Segways®, hoverboards, electric skateboards, motorized scooters, and similar gyroscopically controlled devices are still considered to be motor vehicles as defined under 36 CFR § 1.4(a) and are, therefore, prohibited on carriage roads.

Carriage roads are closed to horse and pack animal use between intersections 1- 8, except between junctions 7 and 8. The closure includes Witch Hole Pond Loop, Paradise Hill Loop, and part of the Eagle Lake Loop, and the carriage road access trail from the Visitor Center to intersection 1.

Determination: Closure of these sections of carriage roads to horses reflects historic management and will remain in effect pending reconsideration in a public planning process. Issues include potential visitor conflicts between user groups, increased maintenance costs, and safe parking and access.

Attractions and Facility Use Limits

Schoodic bike paths are closed to Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes, and to all motorized vehicles.

Determination: Class 1 e-bikes are allowed in Acadia National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. All E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. All classes of e-bikes are allowed where motor vehicles are allowed.

The Sand Beach Sand Dunes are closed to the public.

Determination: The Sand Beach Sand Dunes and associated dune grasses are a unique and sensitive park resource that are easily impacted by human foot traffic.

Anchoring or tying a watercraft to the shore at Sand Beach is prohibited at all times and prohibited at Echo Lake Beach when designated as a swim beach.

Determination: Both locations are popular and heavily frequented, and this activity would cause a user conflict and safety risk.

The development of new climbing routes (involving route cleaning, bolt or piton use) is limited to areas outlined in the 1997 Climbing Management Plan and require approval from the Superintendent.

Determinations: The rules listed above were implemented with the adoption of the park’s Climbing Management Plan, approved in 1997. Most of the better climbing routes in the park have already been developed with fixed protection and cleaned routes. The goal is to protect park resources by managing climbing, especially on new areas.

Climbing groups are limited to 12 people total (including guides)

Determinations: Group size was established in the 1997 Climbing Management Plan. Groups larger than 12 can have an impact on resources and the quality of visitor experiences.

Climbing groups of six or more individuals at Otter Cliffs between Memorial Day and Columbus Day must obtain a permit.

Determinations: A permit (available online through Recreation.gov) is required at Otter Cliffs to prevent multiple groups from arriving on the same day, impacting resources and visitor experiences.

The buildings and fenced in area at the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse are closed to the public.

Determination: The buildings and fenced- in area are utilized by park staff working or accessing the buildings for administrative purposes and also contains serious safety risks at the cliff’s edge.

The Cadillac Repeater Tower Site enclosure is closed to the public.

Determination: The Cadillac towers support radio transmissions for a host of all-risk agencies that serve MDI and the region. Damage to the infrastructure would be costly to repair and could impact timely responses to life threatening situations.

The park firing range, located off Route 3, including the Boyd Pit Road, is closed to the public. The closure encompasses the area 100 yards north and south from the center of the target line, and the area 125 yards west from the Boyd Pit Road.

Determination: The firing range and environs are closed to the public for reasons of public safety. The closure is marked by signs.

All water towers within Acadia are closed to the public. The closure encompasses a 100-foot radius.

Determination: The water towers are closed to the public to protect water supplies to the park. Signs are posted.

The storage area below Hulls Cove Visitor Center is closed to the public.

Determination: This area is utilized by all park staff with heavy equipment often moving in the area. In order to maintain access for park employees to conduct business, this area is restricted to park staff and volunteers only.

Liscomb Pit and the Liscomb Pit Road are closed to public access.

Determination: The Liscomb Pit area and road is closed to public presence, use and access except for individuals conducting administrative business. This closure is to improve the security of stored equipment and materials and prevent visitor injuries during frequent ongoing maintenance operations.

Note: Owner and guest access to the adjacent inholding is not subjected to this restriction

Government and concessionaire employee housing areas are closed to public access.

Determination: Restricting public access to government and concessionaire employee housing areas provides improved security and privacy to residents while not adversely impacting park visitors.

Note: Guests and other visitors with a legitimate business purpose (delivery/service etc.) are not subject to this restriction.

Mount Desert Island Trails and Environs

All trails in Acadia are closed to vehicles and forms of conveyance that do not serve to assist those with an accessibility need.

Determination: Due to narrow trail widths, and uneven surfaces, and steep topography, overall safety considerations preclude the use of most motorized assistance. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are recommended on portions of the Cadillac Summit Loop, the Ship Harbor Trail, Jessup Path and Hemlock Road, Ocean Path, Jordan Pond Trail, and Schooner Head Trail.

Annual trail closures due to wildlife: Cliff faces and trails occupied by nesting falcons will generally be closed from March 1 through August 15. Hiking on the trails or climbing in these areas will be prohibited.

Note: The following closure dates are in accordance with established state wildlife management agency regulations (ME Inland Fisheries and Wildlife 2019

Location of Closure

Precipice Wall: The Precipice Trails and a portion of the Champlain-Orange & Black Path are included in this closure.

Valley Cove Wall: The Valley Cove Trail, located between the Flying Mountain Trail and the Man O' Brook Trail, is included in this closure.

Jordan Cliffs: The Jordan Cliffs Trail is included in this closure.

Beech Cliffs: This is the area below the Beech Cliffs Trail
but does not include any trail areas.

 

Precipice

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Valley Cove

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Jordan Cliffs

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Beech Cliffs

.

 

Determinations: These cliffs and surrounding areas are used by peregrine falcons, a state-listed endangered species. The cliffs are used for nesting and rearing the young fledglings. Peregrine falcons are very sensitive to human disturbance near the nest site. These areas are signed each year.

Mount Desert Island / Acadia National Park Streams:

Location of Closure	Date of Closure
All freshwater streams on MDI: Closed to fishing	October 1 - March 31
Lurvey Spring Brook: Lurvey Spring Brook, a tributary to Echo Lake with origins from the flanks of Beech Mountain and Valley Peak, is closed to fishing.	Year-round
Upper Hadlock Brook: Upper Hadlock Brook, a tributary to Upper Hadlock Pond, is closed to fishing.	Year-round

Determination: The above stream closure dates are in accordance with established state wildlife management agency regulations (ME Inland Fisheries and Wildlife 2019). The fisheries of Lurvey Spring Brook are a long-term research reference stream for ME Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The fisheries of Upper Hadlock Brook are closed to protect native fishes that use the brook for spawning and rearing their young.

St. Croix Island International Historic Site

Commercial use is prohibited on the St. Croix Island portion of St. Croix Island International Historic Site.

Determination: St. Croix Island is a fragile, highly-erodible cultural site. Additional uses caused by commercial operations could threaten the sensitive archeological and natural resources.

Note: Boats cannot depart Canadian shores and proceed directly to St. Croix Island without first clearing U.S. Customs at the nearest port of entry (Calais, Robbinston, Eastport, Cutler, Lubec, or Jonesport). There are no exceptions to these reporting requirements.

Islands

Park Land on Bear Island (near Northeast Harbor) is closed to public access.

Determination: Two acres on Bear Island are closed to the public because the lighthouse is administered under a historic lease that prohibits public access. The remainder of the island is privately owned. In addition, Bear Island is an established eagle nesting territory.

Commercial Use on Isle au Haut is prohibited.

Determination: In support of Isle au Haut planning documents, all commercial use, except for visitor delivery services to Duck Harbor provided by Isle au Haut Boat Services, are prohibited. Page 23 of the Isle au Haut Visitor Use Management Plan (2014) states: “No commercial uses are allowed on NPS lands on Isle au Haut.” Page 25 of the Commercial Services Plan (2000) states: “Other commercial operations will continue to be excluded from the Isle au Haut section of Acadia National Park.”

Baker Island-Fires are not permitted on the shore of Baker Island

Determination: While fires are currently prohibited on park land outside of designated campgrounds or picnic areas, increased fire activity from visitors on Baker Island poses a serious threat of fire damage to both the historic buildings and the private residences on the island requiring a specific restriction for Baker Island.

Seasonal Island Closures

The following islands will generally be closed to the public to protect nesting seabirds or bald eagles on the following dates. They may be re-opened earlier (Or opened once the park wildlife biologist has determined that nesting is not occurring on the island):

The following closure dates are in accordance with established federal and state wildlife management agency recommendations. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act prohibits anyone, without a permit issued by the Secretary of the Interior, from "taking" bald eagles.

Location of Closure	Date of Closure
Bar Island (Somes Sound)	February 15 - August 31	Bar Island in Somes Sound has long been an established bald eagle nesting territory
Heron Island	April 1 - July 31	The island is a documented nesting seabird island.
Rolling Island	February 15 - August 31	Rolling Island became a bald eagle nesting territory in 2000.
Rum Island (Long Pond)	March 15 - August 15	Rum Island is a newly established loon nesting area.
Schoodic Island	February 15 - August 31	Schoodic Island is a documented nesting seabird island
Thumcap Island	April 1 - July 31	The island is used for nesting gulls and cormorants.
Sheep Porcupine	February 15 - Aug 31	Sheep Porcupine is an established bald eagle nesting territory documented in the 2018 USFWS survey
Long Porcupine	February 15 - Aug 31	Long Porcupine is an established bald eagle nesting territory documented in the 2018 USFWS survey

Determination: These islands are identified in the Protected Area Management Subzone of the Acadia National Park General Management Plan (GMP) or in the Schoodic General Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement. These plans state island subzones merit the highest protection and should be managed for minimal or no human intrusion.

Mask requirement:

High Community Levels: When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants.

Mixed Community Levels: When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in one or more, but not all, of the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, the superintendent will determine whether individuals are required to wear masks. The requirement, if any, will apply to all facilities within the park.

Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement. Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so.

Local requirements: Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status.

Public Transportation: All individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear masks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, and boats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.

Medium and Low Community Levels: When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks.

Determination: The CDC has issued detailed information for wearing masks. In addition to physical distancing and hand washing, masks are a critical step to help prevent people from getting and spreading COVID-19. When you wear a mask, you protect others as well as yourself.

• COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets. Masks are a simple barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from reaching others.
• Masks can prevent the spread of the disease even when the wearer is not sick. This is because several studies have found that people with COVID-19 who never develop symptoms (asymptomatic) and those who are not yet showing symptoms (pre-symptomatic) can still spread the virus to other people.
• It is especially important to wear a mask indoors with people you do not live with and when you are unable to stay at least 6 feet apart because COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact with one another.

Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:

Camping Areas

• Please refer to §2.10 for detailed camping area designations and restrictions.

Boat Launching Sites

• Please refer to §3.8 for detailed boat launching information.

Docking or Mooring Areas

• Please refer to §3.8 for detailed docking and mooring information.

Swim and Wading Beaches

• Please refer to §3.17 for detailed swim beach information.

Technical Rock Climbing Areas

• Please refer to §1.5 Attractions and Facility Use Limits for detailed information.

II. 36 CFR §1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT

Note: If not indicated under the specific regulation, violations under this section should be cited under the appropriate CFR section or §1.6(g)(1) or (2).

1.6 Activities Requiring a Permit
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required. See listed section for specific terms and conditions associated with the specific activity:

• §1.5 Climbing groups of six or more individuals at Otter Cliffs between Memorial Day and Indigenous People’s Day
• §1.5 The use of Other Power Driven Mobility Devices in areas normally closed to motorized vehicles.
• 2.3(a) Bait trap fishing in Great Ponds within Acadia National Park’s legislative boundary
• §2.4(e) Transporting a weapon, trap, or net across park lands to access legal hunting and fishing areas requires a permit unless it is being transported by a mechanical mode of conveyance.
• § 2.5(b) Specimen collecting, research, and some science education activities.
• § 2.10 Camping at Duck Harbor Campground

• § 2.12 Creating Audio Disturbances

  • (a)(2) Operating a chain saw in developed areas
  • (a)(3) Operation of any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine in non-developed areas
  • (a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51

• § 2.13 (a)(1) Fires outside of designated areas

• § 2.17 Aircraft and air delivery

  • (a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means
  • (c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft

• § 2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods or services: (Pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under § 2.50, § 2.51 or § 2.52)

• § 2.38 Using or possessing explosives:

• §2.50 Special Events - Special Use Permits (Events, Races, Weddings etc.),

• §2.51 First Amendment Activities such as public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and public expressions of views

• §2.52 Sale and distribution of printed material

• §2.62 (b) Memorialization (Scattering of Ashes)

  • (a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from Regional Director)
  • (b) Scattering ashes from human cremation

• §3.19 Use of Submersibles

• § 4.11 Exceeding established vehicle load, weight and size limits

• § 5.1 Displaying, posting or distributing advertisements

• § 5.2 Selling intoxicants in certain park areas

• §5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (Requires a permit, contract or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).

• §5.5 (a) Commercial filming permits

  • Commercial filming of motion pictures or television involving the use of professional casts, settings or crews, other than bona fide newsreel or news television
  • Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising.

• §5.6 Commercial Vehicles (travel through park) See Section 1.5 for use limitations

• § 5.7 Constructing buildings, facilities, trails, roads, docks, paths, structures, etc.

III. GENERAL REGULATIONS

36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES

(a)(4) The collection of dead wood within park campgrounds is prohibited. Dead wood on the ground outside the campgrounds may be collected for use as fuel for campfires only within the park.

Determination: Park campgrounds are showing signs of significant resource impacts from firewood collection. Social trails, soil compaction, stripped vegetation, and complete clearing of all burnable materials have created “human browse lines” that have created a sterile, artificial environment that is visually unappealing.

Collecting firewood outside the campgrounds reduces fuel loading, especially fine fuels along park roads where the threat of human-caused ignition is highest. Park managers encourage collection of wood from hazard tree removal and road and trail clearing piles to reduce the visual and biological impacts caused by collecting dead and downed wood in the campgrounds and to limit the introduction of any non-native insects from outside wood sources.

(c)(1), (c)(2) The following fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted quantity restrictions and collections sites:

• Possession quantities for fruits and berries (excluding apples) are limited to one dry half gallon per person per day
• Possession quantity for apples is limited to ten dry gallons per person per day
• Possession quantities for unshelled nuts are limited to one half gallon per person per day
• Removing fruits, nuts and berries shall not damage the remainder of the plant
• Possession of unoccupied seashells is limited to one pint per person per day

The following are prohibited:

• Shell collecting at St. Croix Island IHS
• Shell collecting from historic and prehistoric sites or shell middens, which are protected by the Archeological Resource Protection Act of 1979, 16 USC § 470 (ee).
• Taking conifer cones, fungi (mushrooms), lichens and "fiddle-head" ferns or other plant material

Determinations: Limiting fruit and berry collection reduces the likelihood that the park will be adversely affected. The imposed limits are generally considered generous and should not create hardship.

The collection of mushrooms is prohibited because they are not a fruit, like a blueberry. It is a fruiting body -- the body that produces fruits, i.e. spores. For recreational harvest of mushrooms to be permitted, superintendents must be able to prove that such harvesting has no adverse ecological effect. Too little is presently known about mushroom ecology and the effects of harvest to permit such a determination. In fact, what is known suggests that the potential exists for harvest to have significant detrimental effects on mushrooms and their role in the ecosystem.

Shell collection at Saint Croix Island IHS and other historic sites is prohibited due to the archeological significance of the nearby shell middens.

Note: A “dry gallon” refers to a gallon of uncrushed fruits or berries.

36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION

(a)(1) Tracking wounded wildlife into the park, which was lawfully wounded outside of park boundaries, is prohibited unless accompanied by a commissioned park ranger. The ranger on site may terminate the search if the animal is not located within a reasonable amount of time, as determined by the ranger.

Determination: These regulations help to protect against the unlawful taking of wildlife within the park.

36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING

(d)(8) Fishing is prohibited within 200 feet of designated swim beaches, public boat docks, and motor road bridges, with the exception of:

• Sand Beach from September 9 to June 14

• Echo Lake Beach from September 16 to May 14

• Frazer Point Pier and Duck Harbor Pier

Determination: The swim beach designations are seasonal in nature and, therefore, provide anglers the opportunity to fish when there is no visitor conflict.

Notes: Maine residents 16 years and older and non-residents 12 years and older require a State of Maine fishing license to fish in the park. To engage in saltwater recreational fishing, Maine residents and non-residents (16 years of age and older), who do not have a Maine freshwater fishing license or who are not registered in another state, must register on the Maine Saltwater Recreational Fishing Registry. Fishing regulations in the park are in accordance with the State of Maine Open Water Fishing Regulations guide.

36 CFR §2.4 – WEAPONS, TRAPS, AND NETS

(e) A free special use permit signed by the superintendent or designee is required to transport weapons, traps, or nets across park lands in order to access the Great Ponds. Applicants for permits must possess a valid State of Maine license to hunt waterfowl, trap, and/or fish as a condition of the permit.

Determination: This regulation helps to protect against the unlawful taking of wildlife within the park.

Note: Within Acadia National Park, the Great Ponds are: Aunt Betty Pond, Bubble Pond, Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, Upper Hadlock Pond, Witch Hole, and Lake Wood.

Great Ponds bordered by Acadia National Park are: Echo Lake, Hodgdon Pond, Seal Cove Pond, Long Pond (Mount Desert Island), Long Pond (Isle au Haut), Lower Hadlock Pond, and Round Pond.

36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE

• Camping, including vehicle camping, in Acadia is limited to designated campgrounds within designated seasons. There is no dispersed or “backcountry” camping in Acadia. Designated Campgrounds are Blackwoods, Seawall, Schoodic Woods and Duck Harbor.

Determination: Camping (to include all types of camping included in the 36 CFR definition) is limited to areas where there are restrooms to handle human waste, fire rings to help contain risk of wildfires and designated sites to limit impacts on the resource and conflicts with other user groups.

• Check out time for Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods Campgrounds is 10:00 a.m.

• Check out time for Duck Harbor Campground is 11:00 a.m.

Determination: Campers must vacate sites in a timely manner to reduce conflicts with incoming reservations.

• No person may camp in the park for more than a combined total of 14 nights between the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend through Columbus Day. Camping is limited to 30 days in a calendar year.

• Campers are limited to one camping visit (maximum of 3 days) per calendar year at Duck Harbor Campground, Isle au Haut.

Determination: The intent of campgrounds is to provide for a recreational opportunity, not long-term accommodations.

• Blackwoods, Seawall, Schoodic Woods, and Wildwoods Campgrounds are closed to persons other than registered campers from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Determination: Non-campers are prohibited at all campgrounds once Quiet Hours begin to allow for the privacy of registered campers.

• The use of portable showers and toilets are prohibited in all campgrounds.

Determination: Soapy runoff, human waste and gray water disposed directly on the ground is inconsistent with maintaining a natural park environment. Gray water is a waste product that may contain chemicals or other pollutants that may harm the sensitive ecosystem and disrupt natural processes. Showers with catch basins are still challenged to dispose of runoff without impacting the natural environment. Human waste buckets raise the risk of spillage in bathrooms and at dump stations and may also introduce foreign refuse into both systems causing damage. Private businesses provide showers outside of each campground. This restriction does not apply to RVs which have self-contained bathrooms and are set up for the dump station.

• Camping in Wildwoods Campground is open to visitors with stock animals only.

Determination: Due to limited capacity on site and in the area for campers with stock animals, it is necessary to limit campers to stock owners only.

• The size of recreational vehicles in Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds may not exceed 35’ in length and 11’ in height. Extension pull-outs must fit within the site pads provided.

Determination: Vehicles parked on the parking pad cannot extend into the roadway because they will block traffic flow and create safety hazards for drivers using the road. The access roads in Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground cannot safely accommodate recreational vehicles or trailers longer than 35 feet.

• In all camping areas, party size is limited to 6 persons per site. The party size limit may be exceeded to include one immediate family.

Determination: Group size restrictions limit the development of satellite campsites and excessive noise commonly associated with groups larger than six people.

• Group sites at Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds are limited to 15 people each. Group sites at Schoodic Woods are limited to 20 people per site.

Determination: To reduce group conflicts, to provide a sound and site buffer between group sites, to prevent sites from extending into one another, and to reduce the total area of soil compaction, the bordered areas for each group site limit group sizes. Group size restrictions are determined by the number of campers who can comfortably fit inside the bordered areas without causing safety hazards associated with tents and cooking grills.

• Drive-in campsites at Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds are limited to two tents and one vehicle at each site.
• Drive-in campsites at Schoodic Woods Campground are limited to two tents and two vehicles at each site.
• Tents are limited in size and must fit within the site pads provided, 9’ x 12’ including all guy lines.

Determination: To reduce the total area of soil compaction and impact on the site as well as on other sites, the number of tents and vehicles are limited to what can fit in the site.

• Use of tents at Duck Harbor Campground is limited to what can fit inside the shelters provided.

Determination: To prevent undue soil compaction and associated injury and death of plant life, camping is limited to tent pads provided for tent campers

• Generator use is permitted in A Loop of Blackwoods Campground from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Generator use is prohibited in B Loop of Blackwoods Campground
• Generator use is permitted in C Loop of Seawall Campground from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Generator use is prohibited in Loops A, B, and D of Seawall Campground.
• While generators are operating, the campsite must be occupied.
• Generator use is prohibited at Schoodic Woods and Duck Harbor Campgrounds.

Determination: The purpose of generator restrictions is to maintain the appeal of the natural surroundings and to preserve the natural soundscape.

• Within all campgrounds, bug lights and string lights are prohibited.
• Outside lights must be turned off during daylight hours, when leaving the campground, and before retiring for the night.

Determination: The purposes of light restrictions are to keep intact the appeal of the natural surroundings and to preserve the nighttime sky. Electronic insect zappers are non-discriminate killers.

• A Special Use Permit is required through www.recreation.gov to use the camping shelters at Duck Harbor on Isle au Haut. Permits are available for camping from mid-May through mid-October.

Determination: A special use permit system (online through Recreation.gov) is used for Duck Harbor Campground due to the unique nature of the campground and ensuring equal access to as many visitors as possible.

(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect, as noted, for the following areas:

• In campgrounds, all human and pet food must be stored in a hard-sided food locker or enclosed vehicle when not in use.
• Food items, scraps, cooking utensils, and garbage must be stored or disposed of in such a manner as to be inaccessible to wildlife.

Determination: This regulation reduces the likelihood of habituated wildlife and nuisance animals by eliminating human-caused wildlife attractants. Reducing habituated and nuisance wildlife also reduces the potential for wildlife bites and provides for the safety and well-being of park visitors and wildlife.

36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING

Picnicking is prohibited in campgrounds without a camping permit. Elsewhere picnicking is permitted park-wide. Note fire and grill use limitations listed under §2.13 – FIRES.

Determination: Picnicking is prohibited in campgrounds to maintain open areas for registered campers.

36 CFR §2.13 – FIRES

(a)(1) Lighting or maintaining fires is prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:

Designated Areas:

• Contained charcoal and wood fires are allowed only in campgrounds and in designated picnic areas within park-provided receptacles or in private grills.

• Use of personal gas grills and stoves are permitted throughout the park except within public buildings.

• For fires above the intertidal zone on Long Island (for the public access easement), campers must obtain a burn permit from the Town of Blue Hill Fire Chief.

• All fires must be completely extinguished prior to leaving. Charcoal or ash should NOT be disposed of in dumpsters.
  

Receptacles Allowed:

• Fires in designated areas must be contained within the grills provided or within private grills where no ground scorching occurs.

Established Conditions for Fires:

(c) High fire danger closures will be in effect as noted:

• During Maine state-imposed burn bans and periods of high fire danger, the superintendent may temporarily ban fires, and/or stove use in the park to protect park resources and reduce the risk of wildfires.

Determination: While the NPS seeks to provide opportunities for picnicking throughout the park, another goal is to prevent wildland fires, and to prevent debris associated with charcoal grills, and to reduce the potential for other resource damage. Because of the problems associated with disposal of hot coals from charcoal grills and from wood fires, these methods used to heat food are restricted to picnic areas and campgrounds only.

36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION and REFUSE

(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is limited to:

• The refuse produced from a park employee or volunteer residing within the park

• The refuse produced from the Wildwood Stables concessions operation

Determination: The park provides this service to employees in housing units and under the concession agreement with Wildwood Stables.

36 CFR §2.15 – PETS

(a)(1) The following areas are closed to pets, except for service animals:

• All public buildings

• Echo Lake Beach from May 15 through September 15

• Sand Beach from June 15 through September 8.

Determination: The popular swim beaches receive high summer visitation and pets create visitor use conflicts. In addition, pet excrement on beaches and areas where visitors sit and lay down create a public health concern.

• The six cliff ladder trails: Beehive Trail, Beech Cliffs Trail, Ladder Trail, Perpendicular Trail, Precipice Trail, and Jordan Cliffs Trail between Penobscot East Trail and the carriage road.

Determination: The ladder trails are difficult enough for hikers to negotiate without also having to address pet handling and management. Pets are generally not able to climb the vertical ladders on their own.

• The Wild Gardens of Acadia at Sieur de Monts.

Determination: The Wild Gardens are managed by Friends of Acadia as a botanical garden and is not a suitable location for pets.

• Duck Harbor Campground, Isle au Haut

Determination: Duck Harbor Campground is closed to pets to preserve the unique remote qualities of the island, to avoid humans contacting excrement near the provided shelters, and to avoid potential noise violations.

• All areas that are closed to park visitors, such as remote island closures to protect wildlife nesting, are also closed to pets.
  
  Notes: Pets on retractable leashes extended beyond 6’ are in violation of 36 CFR §2.15 (a)(2). In addition, leash length restrictions imposed in 36 CFR §2.15 (a)(2) prohibit the use of dog sleds, dog carts, and traditional skijoring.

Emotional support, therapy, comfort or companion animals are not considered service animals. Although the presence of these animals provides a calming effect for many people, they do not qualify as service animals because they have not been trained to perform a specific job or task. Therefore, an emotional support animal is considered a pet under NPS policy.

"Electronic or "shock" collars do not meet the requirements for physical restraint of a pet as required by 36 CFR §2.15(a)(2). Pets must be crated, caged, or restrained on a leash not exceeding six feet in length.

(a)(3) The park headquarters area at McFarland Hill has been designated as a location where employees and volunteers of Acadia National Park may temporarily tether a dog unattended to a personal vehicle. The designation is pursuant to the conditions outlined in the McFarland Hill Dog Policy.

Residents of single occupancy park residences except for the Nature Center apartment may tether a pet on tether no longer than 15’ to an inanimate object near the housing unit only at times while the occupant is present in the residence.

Determination: This dog-friendly approach at park headquarters and other housing locations has been established, with the guidance of detailed park policy, to provide for employee morale by offering areas away from the public suitable for safe and humane alternatives to pet care.

(a)(5) Pet owners are responsible for removing pet excrement. All animal waste must be removed no matter the location. Visitors bringing pets to the park must carry on their person a bag or other device for the containerization and removal of excrement. Visitors shall immediately containerize and remove pet excrement by depositing it in a trash receptacle or by otherwise taking the excrement from the park.

Determination: Managing pet excrement is necessary for human and pet health and safety.

36 CFR §2.16 – HORSES and PACK ANIMALS

(a) The following animals are designated as pack animals:

• Horses

• Burros

• Mules

• Llamas

• Alpacas

(b) The use of pack animals is permitted on the following trails, routes and roads:

• Carriage roads, except as noted in 36 CFR §2.16 (g)

• The Western Mountain Connector Trail (only when the Western Mountain Road and Lurvey Spring Road are closed to motor vehicles)

• Motor vehicle roads when closed to motor vehicles

• Established crosswalks

• Hio Fire Road

(g) Other conditions concerning the use of pack animals:

• Carriage Roads are closed to horse use between intersections 1- 8, except between junctions 7 and 8.

• Pack animal use is specifically prohibited on hiking trails, Schoodic bike paths, off routes, and on motor roads when open to vehicular traffic.

• Pack animal use is permitted within the developed area of Wildwood Stables.

Determination: By agreement with the town of Bar Harbor, pack animal use is prohibited around the majority of Eagle Lake because the body of water serves as the town’s drinking water supply. Pack animal use is prohibited on the carriage road loops around Witch Hole and Paradise Hill due to funding limitations required for the increased maintenance of the roads impacted by horse use, the lack of parking available for horse trailers, and potential user conflicts.

36 CFR §2.18 – SNOWMOBILES

(c) Snowmobiles may be operated only on the routes indicated in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Part 7: §7.56(a) Acadia National Park - Designated Snowmobile Routes.

NOTE: The Penobscot Mountain Parking Area referred to in §7.56 is now called the Jordan Pond North Lot.

36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES

(a) The unplowed lane of Park Loop Road may be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Determination: Only one lane of Park Loop Road between the entrance station and Otter Cliff Road is plowed in the winter for vehicle traffic. To provide recreational opportunities by visitors on snowmobiles, skis, and snowshoes, the unplowed lane of the road is open for their use. All other sections of closed roads are open to winter activities.

36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES

The use of roller skates, rollerblades, skateboards, roller skis, mountain boards, coasting vehicles, or similar non-motorized devices are allowed only in the following areas:

• Motor roads seasonally closed to automobiles (excluding carriage roads)

Determination: Most of the park’s paved roads are closed to automobile traffic between December 1 and April 14. During the shoulder seasons and during winter melt periods, closed paved roads provide an opportunity for these recreational activities to occur without the hazards of automobile traffic. Use of these coasting devices is prohibited in areas open to automobiles.

36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING

(a) The following areas, structures or facilities are closed to smoking including vaping or e-cigarettes:

• National Park Service office or storage buildings

• Government quarters

• Areas within 25’ of buildings or Government quarters

• Government-owned or leased motor vehicles

• Fuel and flammable storage areas

• Fuel filling islands

• Wild Gardens of Acadia

• Campground amphitheaters

• Bus shelters

• Swimming beaches

Determination: Smoking is prohibited to protect park resources, reduce the risk of fire, or prevent conflicts among visitor use activities. This policy applies to both indoor and outdoor areas. Research indicates that vaping aerosols have at least some level of risk for nearby people in areas with limited ventilation and people with compromised health conditions. Available published studies evaluating the potential hazardous effects of the natural and/or synthetic chemicals used in Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) indicate that potential health effects exist for users and those exposed secondhand.

36 CFR §2.35 – ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:

• All public buildings and facilities, excluding the area served by the Jordan Pond House Restaurant and staff housing

• Parking lots and pull-outs

• Sand Beach

• Echo Lake Beach

• Lake Wood shoreline

• Echo Lake Ledges (near Acadia Mountain Trailhead parking)

• Along the shoreline within ¼-mile of the cliff and swimming area known as “Tyson Camp”, “Ranger Camp”, or “the Cliffs”, located on the southeast end of Long Pond.

Determination: Due to the high and concentrated visitor use of the above areas, the hazards posed by broken glass, the potential for discarded cans, and the potential for water emergencies occurring on unguarded beaches and water accesses, park managers have determined that alcohol consumption in the above areas is inappropriate.

36 CFR §2.50 – SPECIAL EVENTS

The following conditions have been established for special events:

• A complete application for a Special Use Permit (SUP) must be submitted a minimum of 14 calendar days in advance of the proposed activity. Proposed large events or activities that have the potential to adversely affect the human environment, including park operations, will require a longer review period.

• All Weddings over 10 people require a Special Use Permit

• On MDI, all single location events (e.g. picnics, family reunions) that exceed 30 participants require a Special Use Permit.

• For corridor use on MDI, special events involving trails, carriage roads, or motor roads), groups which may exceed 20 participants (e.g. walkers, runners, bicyclists, motor vehicles) require a Special Use Permit.

• Events at Frazer Point over 30 participants requires a Special Use Permit.

• Groups larger than 15 at Schoodic for all single or corridor locations other than Frazer Point require a permit.

Determination: These conditions have been set by the park to ensure that events do not impact other visitors or cause any resource damage. Events at Schoodic have a lower participant number as that area is managed for lower density visitation than Mount Desert Island.

 

Designated demonstration areas

36 CFR §2.51 – DEMONSTRATIONS

(c)(2) The following areas have been established for small First Amendment activities that do not require a Special Use Permit. They are available on a first-come, first served basis. The established locations are:

• The grass area beside the rock patio outside of the Hulls Cove Visitor Center

• The grass area enclosed by sidewalks and located between the Sand Beach dressing rooms and restrooms

• The grass area enclosed by the loop road at Frazer Point Picnic Area

Note: First Amendment activities for 14 days or less and involving 25 people or fewer do not require a Special Use Permit to demonstrate or distribute or sell printed matter under our First Amendment rights. However, First Amendment activities without a permit are restricted to the designated first amendment sites listed above. Those sites were selected by the park for their high visibility and access to the public and for the physical nature of those sites to provide ample room for freedom of speech activities. Activities shall not cause injury or damage to park resources, unreasonably interfere with tranquility or interpretive activities, or create a clear or present danger to park visitors.

36 CFR §2.52 -- SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER

(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2) (see above) when the superintendent has issued a permit.

36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION

(b) A permit is required for the scattering of ashes from cremated human remains. The scattering of human ashes from cremation is allowed pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit as outlined below:

• The remains to be scattered must have been cremated and pulverized

• The ashes must not contain recognizable pieces of bone or teeth

• The ashes must not be scattered within developed areas

• The scattering of remains by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, known archeological and historic sites, or inland body of water

Determination: The conditions outlined above reduce the chances of creating offensive conditions by the scattering of human ashes.

36 CFR §3.7 – PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICE (PFD) REQUIREMENTS

(b) In accordance with U.S. Coast Guard and state requirements, PFDs must be worn or carried on vessels located within all bodies of water in the park:

• If the boat is less than 16 feet long, or is a canoe or kayak of any length, each person on board must have a wearable Type l, ll or lll PFD.
• Watercraft 16 feet or longer: If the boat is 16 feet or longer, each person on board must have one wearable PFD (Type l, ll, lll), plus at least one throwable device (Type IV) on board.

• Children 10 years of age and under must wear a Type l, ll, or lll PFD while on board all watercraft.

Determination: PFDs help to preserve the safety of visitors.

36 CFR §3.8 – BOATING OPERATIONS

(a)(2) Launching or recovering a trailered vessel is prohibited except at one of the following launch sites:

• Eagle Lake Boat Launch
• Red Beach Boat Launch, St. Croix Island IHS
• Seal Cove Boat Launch (unimproved)
• Long Pond Boat Launch (south end at pump station)
• Jordan Pond Boat Launch
• Ikes Point Boat Launch on Echo Lake

Determination: These locations are designated launches. Other areas do not have the infrastructure or terrain to safely launch a boat.

• Frazer Point Dock is open to recreational day use only. Commercial use and launching of any vessel from the dock is prohibited. There are no launching facilities at this location.

Determination: Launching is prohibited due to the lack of trailer parking in the lot and maintaining equal access for all visitors.

• Duck Harbor Float on Isle au Haut is open for public dingy use only on the south (campground side). The northside of the float is closed to public use and is only open to NPS and authorized ferry service. There are no launching facilities at this location.

Determination: The float is too small to allow for vessels to tie up and still maintain access for other visitors or the authorized ferry service. Vessels can to anchor and utilize a dingy.

(a)(4) Vessels must meet horsepower conditions outlined in the following table for lakes and ponds encompassed by or adjacent to Acadia National Park:

Pond	Motor Restrictions
Aunt Betty Pond	Internal combustion engines prohibited
Bear Brook Pond (Beaver Dam Pond)	No Motors
The Bowl	No Motors
Breakneck Pond (lower)	No Motors
Breakneck Pond (upper)	No Motors
Bubble Pond	Internal combustion engines prohibited
Duck Pond	No Motors
Eagle Lake	Maximum 10 HP engine
Echo Lake	Maximum 10 HP engine
Fawn Pond	No Motors
Hadlock Pond (lower)	Maximum 10 HP engine
Hadlock Pond (upper)	Maximum 10 HP engine
Half Moon Pond	No Motors
Hodgdon Pond	Maximum 10 HP engine
Jordan Pond	Maximum 10 HP engine
Lake Wood	Internal combustion engines prohibited
Long Pond (Great Pond) (Mount Desert Island)	No horsepower limit
Long Pond (Isle au Haut)	No restrictions listed
Round Pond	Internal combustion engines prohibited
Seal Cove Pond	Maximum 10 HP engine
Seawall Pond	No Motors
Sargent Mountain Pond	No Motors
The Tarn	No Motors
Witch Hole Pond	Internal combustion engines prohibited

Determination: Town ordinance restrictions on outboard motor size and use of personal watercraft supports the park goals of providing opportunities for quiet, non-conflicting forms of recreation in the Great Ponds associated with the park. Note: State regulations require that all motorized watercraft used in the state to be registered.

36 CFR §3.12 – USING A VESSEL TO TOW A PERSON

(a) The towing of a person by a vessel is prohibited.

(b) Towing a person using a parasail, hang-glider or other airborne device is prohibited.

Determination: Along with the town ordinances on engine limitations, the park bodies of water outside “Great Ponds” are less than 10 acres, generally very shallow, and often inaccessible by vehicles making them incompatible for larger HP required for towing and could cause conflict with other users.

Note: (Long Pond, which is open to water skiing, is outside of the park and the only exception to the 10 hp motor size restriction.)

36 CFR §3.16 – SWIMMING AND WADING

The following bodies of water are closed to swimming, wading and other restrictions as they are water supplies for local communities:

Violators outside of the park are simply educated.

Pond	Water Contact Restrictions	Determination
Eagle Lake	No domestic animals in water; no swimming, wading, windsurfing, paddle boarding, oar boarding, or SCUBA diving; and no snowmobiling or boating within 1000’ of water intake	Bar Harbor water supply. (H.P. 142 – L.D. 175, 1973). Vehicles designed for use on public highways are prohibited on the ice. (Town of Bar Harbor Ordinance 06.05.05.01)
Bubble Pond	No domestic animals in water; swimming, no wading, windsurfing, paddle boarding, oar boarding, or SCUBA diving
Jordan Pond	No domestic animals in water; no swimming, wading, windsurfing, paddle boarding, oar boarding, or SCUBA diving	Seal Harbor water supply. (H.P. 142 – L.D. 175, 1973).
Upper and Lower Hadlock Ponds	No pets in water; no swimming, windsurfing, paddle boarding, oar boarding,or SCUBA diving	Northeast Harbor water supply. (H.P. 142 – L.D. 175, 1973).
Long Pond (Great)	No swimming and no SCUBA diving within 1000’ of intake on the south end of the pond.	Southwest Harbor water supply

Determination: These bodies of water serve as water supplies for local communities and these restrictions limit the growth of bacteria and other items that could spread illness

36 CFR §3.17 – SWIMMING AREAS AND BEACHES

(a) Sand Beach is a designated swim beach from June 15 through September 8. Echo Lake Beach is a designated swimming beach from May 15 through September 15.

(c) The possession of glass containers in these areas is prohibited year-round.

In addition to restrictions on pets (2.15), the following restrictions apply during the swim beach designation:

Activities/Items Permitted during Swim Beach Designation:

Activity Use	Sand Beach	Echo Lake Beach
Possession/Use of USCG-Approved Floatation	Yes	Yes
Possession/Use of Other Flotation	No	Yes
Fishing	No	No
Snorkeling/SCUBA diving	Yes	Yes
Incompatible Sporting Activities	No	No
Kite Flying that creates an interference	No	No

Determination: When the beaches are in peak use, the potential for user conflicts caused by athletic sports, fishing, and kite flying is increased. Broken glass containers and fishhooks can pose a substantial hazard in swim areas where visitors do not wear shoes.

Surfing and the use of skim boards or similar equipment at Sand Beach is only permitted from September 9 through June 14 and prohibited from June 15 to September 8.

Determination: Per 36 CFR §3.22 Surf Boards and similar devices are prohibited during periods that Sand Beach is a designated swim beach. Sand Beach is a designated swim beach from June 15 to September 8.

Launching or landing a watercraft is prohibited at Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach when designated as a swim beach.

Determination: Per 36 CFR §3.8 (5) Operating a vessel within 500 feet of swim beach is prohibited. Sand Beach is designated as a swim beach from June 15 to September 8. Echo Lake is designated as a swim beach from May 15 to September 15.

36 CFR §3.18 – SCUBA AND SNORKELING

Within Acadia National Park, SCUBA diving and snorkeling are not permitted in Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, Long Pond(great), Upper and Lower Hadlock Pond and Bubble Pond.

Determination: These bodies of water serve as water supplies for local communities and these restrictions limit the growth of bacteria and other items that could spread illness

(a) In St. Croix Island International Historic Site, SCUBA diving is prohibited anywhere within the island’s boundary.

Determination: The island closure to snorkeling and SCUBA diving is in an effort to protect submerged archeological resources on and around the island.

36 CFR §4.11 – VEHICLE LOAD, WEIGHT AND SIZE LIMITS

(a)(1) The following load, weight and size limits, which are more restrictive than State of Maine law, apply to the roads indicated under the terms and conditions, and/or under permit as noted:

• Park Loop Road between Fabbri Picnic Area and Wildwoods Stables is closed to vehicles taller than 12’ 0”.

• Park Loop Road between the Sieur de Monts and the entrance station is closed to vehicles taller than 12’ 2”.

• Stanley Brook Road is closed to vehicles taller than 10’ 4”.

• Fish House Road, in Otter Cove, is closed to vehicles taller than 11’ 6”.

Determinations: These roads feature historic underpasses that were constructed lower than conventionally built underpasses. Taller vehicles will not fit beneath the historic bridges.

Notes: The underpass clearance height at the Highway 3 bridge over Park Loop Road near Blackwoods Campground is 11’8” in the right lane and 12’0” in the left lane. All vehicles over 11’8” must drive in the left lane while passing beneath the overpass.

• On all park roads, tour bus weights are limited to 27 tons GVW, in accordance with Maine state regulations.

Determinations The vehicle weight and size restrictions are based upon load bearing limits on the historic bridges in the park.

• Schoodic Loop Road and associated side roads are closed to buses, RVs, and trailers beyond the Schoodic Woods Ranger Station Day Use Area unless they are associated with Schoodic Institute or are permitted for NPS educational programs or by Special Use Permit. This includes Schoodic Head Road and Arey Cove Road to Schoodic Point.

Determinations: Vehicle size restrictions provide for the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicle operators on the historic, undersized roads at Schoodic. Vehicle limits also provide for a visitor experience commensurate with the Schoodic GMP. The physical capacity of the road and the lack of oversized parking spaces prohibit the use and parking of oversized vehicles

The following roads and areas are closed to unauthorized vehicles longer than 21 feet.

Duck Brook Road

Determinations: The parking lot at Duck Brook Road is too small to provide adequate turn around space for large vehicles and vehicles with trailers. Standard parking spaces are only 19 feet in length.

Bass Harbor Lighthouse Road

Determinations The parking lot at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is too small to provide adequate turn around space for large vehicles and vehicles with trailers.

Cadillac Summit Road including the West Lot (formerly Blue Hill Overlook)

Determinations The tight teardrop configuration of the West Lot does not provide adequate turning distance and is not the designated parking location for buses or over-size vehicles.

Because of the narrowness of the Cadillac Summit Road and the lack of large vehicle parking, vehicles with trailers and vehicles too large to fit suitably within regular parking spaces are prohibited on the roadways and the parking areas.

While there is designated bus parking on the summit, those locations are accessible to authorized vehicles only (CUA holders, SUP holders, academic fee waiver etc.)

Beech Mountain Parking lot and road

Determinations The parking lot at Beech Mountain is too small to provide adequate turn around space for large vehicles and vehicles with trailers. The road has no turn arounds on it so a large vehicle would have to back up to exit.

Echo Lake Beach Road

Determinations The tight road that is often over parked and limited turning radius (outside of the Island Explorer bus stop) makes it difficult for large vehicles to navigate. Examples of authorized large vehicles that would be allowed would be CUA or SUP holders who are made aware of the challenges, possible user conflicts and congested times.

Great Head Road, which is the dead end portion of Schooner Head Road, between the Schooner Head Overlook intersection and Great Head Parking Lot is closed to buses, RVs, trailers and vehicles longer than 21 feet.

Determinations The southern end of Schooner Head Road does not provide adequate turn-around room for vehicles longer than 15-passenger vans.

Sand Beach Parking Lots (excluding Island Explorer buses)

Determinations: The Sand Beach parking lot does not include any parking for oversize vehicles. The exit to the parking has a very high crown preventing buses or trailers from exiting without undercarriage damage or becoming high centered.
The prohibition of buses in the Lower Sand Beach Parking Lot does not include Island Explorer buses, which have a designated loading zone. In the Lower Sand Beach Parking Lot, school buses may, in accordance with the conditions in their special use permit, be permitted in the lot.

Jordan Pond South Parking Lot

Determinations: Jordan Pond South Lot has no parking for oversize vehicles and the turn is too tight for oversize vehicle to safely make.

Parkman Mountain

Determinations: Parkman Mountain Parking has no parking for oversized vehicles and the turn is too tight for oversize vehicles to make without blocking the Island Explorer.

Brown Mountain Gatehouse

Determinations: Brown Mountain has no parking for oversize vehicles

Bubble Pond Parking Lot (Excluding Island Explorer buses)

Determinations: Bubble Pond Parking Lot is too small to accommodate oversize vehicles.

36 CFR §4.13 – OBSTRUCTING TRAFFIC

(a) Outside of the one-way section of Park Loop Road between Bear Brook Picnic Area and the Stanley Brook Road junction, parking vehicles in the right lane is not permitted and is considered obstructing the travel lane. Parking in either travel lane is not permitted anywhere on the one-way portion of the Schoodic Loop Road.

Determination: Managing vehicle parking is a challenge at Acadia National Park. In an effort to reduce roadside resource damage from cars parked off road, and to reduce visual obtrusions created by additional parking facilities, park managers offer sections of the right lane of the Park Loop Road for parking.

36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS

(b) Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit for paved park motor roads (maintained by the NPS) is 35 mph.

Determination: The speed limit of 35 mph is reasonable and safe for the park motor roads. "Park Motor Roads" are defined as park maintained roads, not state highways that run through park jurisdiction. Areas with congestion or hazards will be posted with a lower speed limit.

Higher speed limits would be unreasonable, unsafe and inconsistent with the purposes for which the park was established.

36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES

(a) Bicycle and class 1 e-bike use is permitted on motor roads; on carriage roads; on designated bike paths; in parking areas; and on the following service roads: Hio Road, Marshall Brook Fire Road, the Western Mountain Connector, the Sand Beach Connector, and Western Head Road on Isle au Haut.

Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are only permitted on motor roads within Acadia National Park.

The use of bicycles and e-bikes on hiking trails and in off-road areas is prohibited

Determination: These provisions protect the park’s natural, scenic, and aesthetic values, while contributing to minimal disturbance to wildlife or park resources.

Notes: Bicycle possession (walking a bike on a trail to access an area open to bike use) is permitted on trails within the park that are closed to bicycle use.

36 CFR §4.31 – HITCHHIKING

In accordance with State of Maine Law, Title 29-A: Motor Vehicles § 2110, on federal and state roads, hitchhiking is prohibited in the following areas under the terms and conditions noted:

• Hitchhiking on the traveled portion of a public way or otherwise interfering with the flow of traffic
• Creating a hazardous condition
• Hitchhiking at night

Determination: Hitchhiking may be necessary for one-way hikes or to connect with Island Explorer and these limitations allow for it while still providing for the safety of the visitors.

36 CFR §5.1 – ADVERTISEMENTS

Commercial notices or advertisements shall not be displayed, posted, or distributed on federally owned or controlled lands within a park area unless prior written permission has been given by the Superintendent.

NOTE: See §5.1 for criteria for granting permission.

36 CFR §5.3 – BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as such may be specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited.

36 CFR §5.4 – COMMERCIAL PASSENGER-CARRYING MOTOR VEHICLES

(a) The commercial transportation of passengers by motor vehicle except as authorized under a contract or permit from the Secretary or his authorized representative is prohibited in certain parks. See 36 CFR§5.4(a) for more information.

36 CFR §5.5 (a) – COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Before any motion picture may be filmed or any television production or soundtrack may be made by any person other than bona fide newsreel or news television personnel, written permission must first be obtained from the Superintendent.

Taking photographs of any vehicle or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising without a written permit from the Superintendent is prohibited.

36 CFR §5.6 – COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

(b) & (c) Using commercial vehicles on government roads within park areas when such use is in no way connected with the operation of the park is generally prohibited, and requires permission or a permit from the Superintendent, with the following exceptions:

• Commercial Use Authorization holders conducting authorized business in accordance with the terms and conditions of their permit

• Commercial buses traveling directly to and from the Schoodic Institute (SI) Campus for SI-related activities and events are permitted.

• Commercial buses are otherwise prohibited on the portion of Schoodic Loop Road from the Schoodic Woods Day Use Parking Area to the end of the one-way at Wonsqueak and on Arey Cove Road to Schoodic Point.

• Concession-operated vehicles and trailers authorized to transport passengers, merchandise, equipment, and food

• Commercial vehicles making deliveries to the park and concessions

• Park-contracted commercial vehicles operating within the scope of their work agreement

• Partner service and authorized vendor vehicles

• Commercial trucks are generally limited to a total of three axles. All vehicles must be within state weight limits.

Determination: Park roads are not rated nor suited for heavy and large equipment. Commercial vehicles may detract from the natural scenery and contribute to noise and air pollution. There are no parking areas available to commercial buses in the Schoodic area except on the SERC campus.

36 CFR §5.7 – CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS OR OTHER FACILITIES

Such activities are prohibited, except in accordance with the provisions of a valid permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States.

36 CFR §5.10 – EATING, DRINKING, OR LODGING ESTABLISHMENTS

(a) In certain parks, establishments offering food, drink, or lodging for sale on privately owned lands may only be operated with a permit from the Superintendent. See §5.10 for more information.

CCTV Policy Statement

In accordance with National Park Service Law Enforcement Reference Manual 9 (RM-9), notice is hereby given that Acadia National Park uses Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) security camera monitoring.

The park’s use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) for law enforcement and security purposes will only be to visually monitor public park areas and public activities where no constitutionallyprotected reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Such CCTV use – which will have adequate privacy and First Amendment safeguards – will be to help ensure public safety and security; facilitate the detection, investigation, prevention, and deterrence of terrorist attack and crime; help ensure the safety of citizens and officers; help assist in the proper allocation and deployment of law enforcement and public safety resources; and help facilitate the protection of the innocent and the apprehension and prosecution of criminals. (RM-9, 26.1)

This policy does not restrict the official use of CCTV in government administrative areas, including administrative buildings, jail holding facilities (RM-9, 26.3.7), revenue collection sites, etc., where the government may record or monitor its facilities. For example, the government may perform unrestricted video/audio recording at revenue collection points (entrance stations, visitor center counters, etc.). This policy does not restrict the use of an Audio/Visual Recording Device (AVRD) in patrol vehicles or officer-worn recording devices used by commissioned rangers. (RM-9, 26.1).

Operation of CCTV cameras, maintenance of recorded images and use of recorded images will be in accordance with NPS and Department policy and applicable laws and regulations. (RM-9, 26.1-26.4) No person will be targeted or monitored merely because of race, religion, gender, sex, disability, national origin, or political affiliation or views. (RM-9, 26.4.2)

Nothing in this policy statement is intended to create any rights, privileges, or benefits not otherwise recognized by law.