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Permission to use public land

There are many reasons a company or individual may want to use public land. The examples range from family reunions and birthday parties to commercial filming, scientific research, fish guiding and bike races. DNR-managed public land includes state parks, recreation areas, state forests, state game areas, boating access sites and rail trails. 

The links below contain general rules and permits needed for event, non-event, and commercial use of DNR-managed public land. If you have any questions along the way, you can always contact one of our customer service centers.

All applications, unless otherwise specified, should be submitted to the manager of the location you are requesting permission to use. If you are not sure who to send it to, please contact your local customer service center and they can assist you.

Event use of DNR-managed public land

Information (including land use permits) for event use of state land. This could include meetings, weddings, family reunions, race events, etc.

Non-event use of DNR-managed public lands

Information (including land use permits) for non-event use of state land. This could include permission to park vehicles overnight, geocache placement, scientific research, etc.

Commercial use of DNR-managed public land

Information (including land use permits) for commercial use of state land. This includes concessions (selling goods or services), liveries (such as renting or delivering canoes or RVs), fish and hunt guiding, and commercial photography.

Belle Isle Park Event and Commercial Use

Information (including permits) for facility rental and commercial use at Belle Isle Park.

Cultural or Scientific Research Permits

Information (including land use permits) for conducting research activities on state land.

Archaeological Exploration on DNR-Managed Public Lands

This includes any archaeological investigation on state land.