Take time to read BLM’s EXPLORE Act Frequent Questions & BLM’s Special Recreation Permits. This impacts all recreational group activities.
RAPTOR: Recreation and Permit Tracking Online Reporting (interesting name…)
BLM states “The Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act is a bipartisan federal law enacted in January 2025 that seeks to improve recreation opportunities and expand access to public lands and waters for all Americans.”
See page 2 of BLM Frequently Asked Question Sheet; “Special Recreation Permits-Basics”- this impacts all recreational groups use of public land. See all categories 1-4.
See page 3 of BLM Frequently Asked Question Sheet: “Can BLM deny a permit even if I meet the criteria? Yes. SRPs are discretionary authorizations. Even if an activity meets eligibility criteria, the BLM may deny or condition a permit to protect resources, manage visitor use, address administrative capacity, or ensure public health and safety.”
See page 4 of BLM Frequently Asked Question Sheet: “Will permit processing be faster under Title III? Once the office acknowledge receipt and either issue a final decision, or notify the application of a projected date for a final decision within 60 days.”
See page 5 of BLM Frequently Asked Question Sheet: “Does Title III guarantee my permit will be approved? No. Title III does not guarantee approval. Permit approval remains discretionary upon BLM review.”
Plus see: “What factors affect how long process takes? Complexity of the proposal, visitor-use considerations, safety and operational considerations, completeness and clarity of the application, environmental review needs, and coordination needs.”
See page 10 of BLM Frequently Asked Question Sheet: “Incidental Sales. Standalone vending, food trucks, or independent commericial sales usually require separate authorization.”
Note comment from BLM re: Special Recreation Permits “Please note: As with any new system or process, there may be some unanticipated challenges or growing pains along the way. The BLM appreciates the public’s patience and understanding as we work to improve the system for everyone involved!“
According to RAPTOR site: “A group is defined as more than one person participating in a recreation activity or event. The threshold size of a group requiring a permit is not established on a national basis. Field offices may establish thresholds for requiring permits for organized groups and events for specific types of recreation activities, land areas, or resource settings.After you have had a pre-application meeting, complete applications must be submitted at least 180 days prior to your proposed activity.”
Are you angry yet? Let’s do something about it! Click link and write a complaint! Our voices are needed!
If you aren’t a good writer… use ChatGPT. You can add words what you want to say and ChatGPT will help write a well written response.
Time is in essence! Please submit a public comment to BLM before due date 4/21/2026.