12-009 Code Vt. R. 12-020-009-X

Current through August, 2024

Section 12 020 009 - VISITOR CONDUCT AND FEES AND CHARGES FOR STATE PARK SERVICES AND COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES ON DEPARTMENT LANDS

DEFINITION: Operating Season: When visitor fees are being collected.

I. GENERAL VISITOR CONDUCT

(Applies to all Department lands, except where noted)

1. Posting bills without the permission of authorized personnel, cutting, peeling, defacing, writing upon or destroying or damaging any building, sign, plant, rock or other natural or manmade structure or object is prohibited.

2. No plant may be uprooted or cut without a special written permit from the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation or their designee except wild berries, fruits, seeds, nuts, or mushrooms may be collected only for personal use at the risk of the collector. Commercial harvesting of such items for profit is allowed only with a special written permit from the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation or their designee.

3. Removal of any earth material, including but not limited to rock, sand, gravel, topsoil and minerals, is allowed only with a special written permit from the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation or their designee. Exempt from this requirement is the personal collection of small stones for educational or hobby collecting purposes unless the stones contain fossils or are otherwise historically significant.

4. Animals, other than species taken legally according to Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife laws and regulations, may not be collected without a special written permit from the Commissioners of Forests, Parks and Recreation and Fish and Wildlife or their designees and/or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. "Animals" include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.

5. The feeding of wildlife in State Parks by visitors is prohibited.

6. The use of metal detectors is permitted only in areas designated by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation and when their use does not conflict with other visitors to Department lands, or disturb lawn areas, rare or fragile plant or animal habitats or archeologically sensitive areas. Users must report to authorized personnel before using a metal detector. Probing in permitted areas may be done only with a small hand tool to a maximum depth of three (3) inches. Any artifacts which may have historical or archeological significance are the property of the State of Vermont and shall be surrendered immediately to authorized personnel. All disturbed areas must be restored to their original state. Use of metal detectors is prohibited in areas of obvious historic significance, e.g., cellar holes, stonewalls, etc.

7. The use of mechanical techniques for gold panning is prohibited. Gold panning is permitted only by traditional hand panning technique.

8. Glass containers or other materials which may pose a hazard to swimmers are not allowed in pools, beaches or other swimming areas.

9. All refuse and separated recyclables shall be placed in containers provided for that purpose. In remote camping and day use areas, waste and rubbish must be carried out and disposed of at proper locations.

10. Alcoholic beverages in bulk containers (larger than 1 gallon or 4 liters) are prohibited in State Parks except day use areas when served to an organized group by an individual possessing the appropriate license.

11. In situations when alcoholic beverages are being consumed or when otherwise appropriate, the park manager or park staff may require legal identification and proof of age.

12. Children under the age of 14 must be supervised by an adult, while visiting the State Parks.

13. Swimming is encouraged only in designated areas. Persons who swim in areas without lifeguard protection, or when a lifeguard is not on duty, do so at their own risk.

14. There is no fishing in marked, designated State Park swimming areas during the operating season.

15. Using soap is not allowed in any surface waters in, or adjacent to, State Parks.

16. Chainsaws may not be used in State Parks by visitors.

17. Aircraft are not allowed in State Parks and Forests facilities without the written approval of the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation except in an emergency.

18. Disorderly conduct is prohibited (per 13.V.S.A. § 1026) .

19. Urinating, defecating or disposing of human waste shall be in facilities designated for that purpose.

20. Smoking of tobacco is prohibited in designated Smoke Free areas of state parks and forests. Smoke Free areas shall be established by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation on a site by site basis to protect the health and well being of nonsmoking park and forest visitors. Smoke Free areas shall include, but not be limited to playgrounds and intensively used day use areas such as busy beaches and picnic areas.

I.a. Vehicle Use.

1. The maximum speed limit on State Parks and Forests roads is 15 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.

2. Recreational use of mountain bicycles and motorized all terrain vehicles shall be permitted only on roads and trails designated for such use.

3. Parking is allowed only in designated areas or as directed by park or forestry staff. Violators may be towed at owner's expense.

I.b. Fires and Firearms.

1. In developed State Parks areas, fires are allowed only in fire rings, fireplaces or charcoal grills at designated picnic and camping areas. All fires must be attended and under control at all times.

2. No firecrackers or other explosive devices, firearms, air rifles or pistols, gas weapons, slingshots, crossbows, bow and arrows except by special permit shall be discharged in any developed recreation area during the park operating season. No firearm shall be discharged within 500 feet of any occupied building or structure in any park or recreation area.

I.c. Pets.

1. Visitors may bring domesticated or trained animals to designated campgrounds and day use areas provided they are safely confined or securely restrained on a leash not longer than 10 feet at all times. No animals will be allowed in certain day-use areas including parking lots, beaches, pools, picnic areas and playgrounds. EXCEPTION: Dogs/animals to assist people with disabilities and Police Canine Corps dogs are allowed in any public area of the park, if under leash or harness control of an owner or handler.

2. Pet owners are required to repair damage caused by their animals including digging and defecation in developed areas.

II. CAMPING AND OTHER OVERNIGHT LODGING

(Applies only to State Parks, except where noted)

1. Camping is allowed only on designated sites. Off season camping is available only by permission of parks regional managers.

2. All campers and campground visitors are required to register with the park staff.

3. Not more than eight people, regardless of age, may occupy one campsite. In the interest of protecting the natural resources of the park, the limit at some campsites may be lower.

4. Visitors to campers must register with the park staff before entering the campground and must pay the regular day use fee. Day visitor hours in the campground are 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The total number of day visitors per site may be limited at the discretion of the park manager.

5. The designated head of the camping party staying overnight on the site must be at least 18 years of age and is responsible for the conduct of all campers and visitors on the site.

6. No part of any sleeping unit or vehicles on the campsite may be placed outside the cleared area designated as the site. The maximum number of vehicles allowed per site, including self-propelled sleeping units, shall be two. Other vehicles shall be parked in areas designated by park manager.

7. Campsites shall be kept in a neat and clean condition at all times.

8. Dishwashing is allowed only at individual campsites or areas specifically designated as dishwashing areas.

9. Gray water and other direct discharges on the ground from camping vehicles and trailers are not permitted. Holding tanks or other appropriate containers must be emptied at the campground "sanitary dump station" or other suitable facility.

10. Quiet hours are between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. except in areas otherwise designated by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Visitors who violate quiet hours may be evicted from the camping area and may forfeit their fees and reservation. Reasonable quiet must be maintained at all times in both camping and day use areas. Sound that is audible on adjacent occupied campsites may be prohibited at the discretion of the park staff.

11. Generators and rechargers may be used only in areas and/or at times designated by the park manager. They may not be operated during quiet hours.

12. Camping in designated overflow areas will be limited to one night per camping party.

13. The park manager, with the approval of the parks regional manager, may designate a storage area during the summer season for camping trailers, boat trailers, R.V.'s or other similar equipment and vehicles of hikers, bicyclists or paddlers. A fee shall be charged. The State is not liable for theft or damage to equipment stored in these areas. All equipment and vehicles shall be removed from the storage area no later than the seasonal closing date of the park.

II.a. Reservations and Site Occupancy.

1. Reservation requests shall be confirmed only when accompanied by payment of full camping and reservation fees. Payment must be received within two weeks of making the reservation if there is sufficient time to do so. For reservations made within two weeks of arrival, payment is due at time of reservation.

2. The minimum reservation period for campsites and cabins is either four (4) or two (2) consecutive nights as determined by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation. This determination shall be based on use patterns for particular parks in an effort to maximize occupancy.

a. Exceptions:

(i) Campers hiking or using bicycles or paddle craft as their mode of travel or their tour agents, may make a one night reservation in developed campgrounds. Such reservations will not be for specific sites.

(ii) Campers traveling as touring groups intending to stay at multiple campgrounds during their trip may make one night reservations for individual park stays.

(iii) There will be no minimum reservation period for camping groups in group camping areas or in other campgrounds before June 15 and after Labor Day, except over Memorial Day weekend.

(iv) There will be no minimum reservation period for Green River Reservoir State Park., Molly's Falls State.

3. The minimum reservation requirement for cottages shall be set by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks & Recreation based on individual cottage characteristics, use and occupancy pattern. Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance.

4. Check out time is 11:00 a.m. at which time the site must be vacated. Check in time is 2:00 p.m. If the site is reserved for the succeeding night and the party has not re-registered by check out time or declared their intent to reregister, the park manager, at their discretion and in the presence of two witnesses, not employees of the State Parks Division, may inventory and remove gear from the site.

The maximum stay on any campsite shall be up to 21 consecutive nights unless adjusted by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation to improve occupancy. A camper occupying a campsite for the maximum stay shall vacate the campsite and may not occupy that site or any other site in that campground for a period of at least seven days.

5. The period of occupancy, reservation period, duration and number of reservations per season for a campsite or lean-to may be adjusted at the discretion of the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation for the purpose of improving the occupancy rate or protection of the natural resource.

II.b. Group Camping.

1. The definition of a camping group shall be 8 or more people regardless of age.

2. In addition to those areas specifically designated for group camping, prior to June 15 and after Labor Day, group camping may be accommodated in any camping area in the park system on a space available basis except over Memorial Day weekend.

II.c. Remote Camping.

1. Remote camping areas are located throughout a large forest complex, island or shoreline. They differ from "primitive camping" areas because the location is specific and may include pit toilets, fireplaces, lean-tos and/or tables.

2. Woods and Knight Islands, Waterbury Reservoir shoreline, Molly's Falls shoreline, Groton, Coolidge, Victory and Darling State Forests CCC campsites, and portions of Kingsland Bay and Jamaica State Parks are designated as remote areas. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation has the authority to designate or remove designation of remote areas on Department lands.

3. Remote camping is only by reservation or permit and payment of fee.

4. The maximum stay per camper at any remote area is seven consecutive nights.

5. Regulations in remote areas shall be the same as for camping in developed areas.

II.d. Horse Camping.

Note: The following rules apply to overnight use of certain state park campgrounds at which horse camping is permitted during the operating season.

1. Proof of current (within one year) negative Coggins test is required prior to entry into the campground.

2. Horses may be used only on marked bridle trails, parks or forests roads, or other areas designated for equine use. Horses are not allowed on nature trails, or in day use or campground areas not designated for equine use.

3. The maximum number of horses allowed at each campsite is two (2).

4. Horses shall be securely restrained in paddocks, at hitch rails, high lines with tree saver straps, or tied to a trailer at the campsite when not being used.

5. Bathing of horses is only allowed at designated bathing areas.

6. Owners are responsible for all accidents or any damage caused by their animals on state lands.

7. The park manager may require horse owners remove their animal from the park, if determined that the horse poses an unreasonable threat to park visitors, or other horses.

8. Galloping of horses is prohibited in developed areas.

9. Horses shall be watered only at designated areas or by tubs or buckets filled from the park water supply.

10. Owners are responsible for cleaning up the manure and placing in the designated area.

11. Horses shall not be left unattended at any time. Owners may be asked to leave without a refund for leaving unattended horses.

II.e. Fees and Charges.

Camping and Other Overnight Lodging

1. The base rate for a tent, lean-to, cabin or remote site permits up to four (4) people. An additional fee shall be charged for each additional camper beyond four. (see for definitions)

2. There is no charge for children three years and under for camping.

3. Fees for camping at any campground or designated remote sites shall be as follows, but the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may adjust fees downward at his or her discretion to improve occupancy as necessary.

Prime Tent or Trailer Site:

Vermont Residents = $ 22.00 per night; extra person $ 5.00 per night.

Non-Vermont Residents = $ 30.00 per night; extra person, $ 5.00 per night Standard Lean-to Site:

Vermont Residents = $ 30.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax; extra person,

$ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax.

Non-Vermont Residents = $ 38.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms tax; extra person, $ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax. Prime Lean-to Site:

Vermont Residents = $ 32.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax; extra person,

$ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax;

Non-Vermont Residents = $ 40.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax; extra person, $ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax. Burton Island State Park waterfront lean-to sites:

Vermont Residents = $ 40.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax; extra person,

$ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax.

Non-Vermont Residents = $ 50.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax; extra person, $ 5.00 per night including VT Meals and Rooms Tax.

4. GROUP CAMPING - In group camping areas = $ 6.00/per person/per night regardless of age, tent site or lean-to.

Group camping in non-group campgrounds shall be per site rates as established in Section II.e.3

5. CABINS, COTTAGES, RESIDENTIAL RENTALS

a. Cabins are semi-furnished, enclosed structures in a camping area used for overnight lodging during the park season on a nightly basis. The per night charge for cabins will be based on the comparable market rate for the region of the state.

b. Cottages are furnished lodging units available for weekly rental during the park season. Rental rate for cottages shall be based on the comparable market rate for the region of the state.

c. Residential rentals are park staff quarters made available for rental during the off season (generally the first of November to the first of April). Rental rates for residential rentals will be based on the comparable market rate for the region of the state.

6. MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES

a. Mt. Mansfield Stone Hut = $ 300.00 including VT Meals and Rooms Tax, per group per night. $ 200.00 security deposit is required in advance and is refundable if Hut is left in acceptable condition. Maximum reservation is for five consecutive nights.

b. Sanitary Dump Station = There is no charge for dumping camping vehicle holding tanks for campers registered in the campground. All other RVs up to 30 feet in length = $ 15 per dump or pump out. RVs over 30 feet in length and buses = $ 30 per dump or pump out.

c. Vehicle/Equipment Storage = The fee by the week, or any part thereof, shall equal the tent or trailer site fee for one night paid in advance. The fee for vehicles of hikers, bicyclists, and paddlers shall equal one adult day use fee for each calendar day or part thereof.

d. Reservation fee = $ 8.00 per campsite, cabin, cottage, or group reservation.

e. Pet fee = $ 2.00 per night for all overnight camping accommodations where pets are permitted. Horse fee = $ 5.00 per night for all overnight camping accommodations where horses are permitted.

III. DAY ACTIVITIES

(Applies only to State Parks)

1. State Park day use areas are open to the public during the operating season from 10:00 a.m. to official sunset but no later than 9:00 p.m. unless by special arrangement.

2. Registered campers can use day use areas at no charge. A camper receipt allows the holders to use day use areas until normal closing hour on the scheduled day of check out.

3. The day use punch card entitles entrance to a day use area at the rate of one punch per person. No refunds or replacements will be issued for destroyed or lost punch cards.

4. The annual vehicle pass entitles vehicle assigned to the pass and its occupant's entrance at all State Parks for day use activities. Each vehicle pass allows up to eight people in legal seats to enter per day. In areas accessible by water, vehicle passes may be used on boats.

a. Replacement for vehicle passes on traded, sold or damaged vehicles may be applied for by presenting to the State Parks headquarters office, or at the park where purchased during the park season, a written statement accompanied by as much of the vehicle pass which is identifiable, including, at least, the serial number.

b. Under extenuating circumstances, upon the recommendation of the parks regional manager, the Director of State Parks may permit the temporary use of the purchaser's receipt in lieu of the vehicle pass.

5. The annual individual season pass entitles holder to enter all State Parks for day use activities.

a. Damaged individual passes may be replaced upon presentation of as much of the pass as possible, including, at least, the serial number.

6. Recreation programs organized by cities or towns, including swimming instruction programs, shall be admitted under a special group rate by advance arrangement.

7. Day use visitors shall remove their own refuse from the park except as follows: caterers or organizers of group day use activities shall make their own refuse removal arrangements or pay a supplemental disposal fee, at the going market rate, for access to park disposal facilities where available. In some areas, park visitors may pay a fee to leave refuse at "carry in/carry out" parks.

III.a. Fees and Charges Day Activities.

1. Day Use Daily Fee

a. Day use fee per person, 14 years and older = $ 5.00.

b. Day use fee per person, 4 years through 13 years = $ 2.00.

c. No charge for persons 3 years old and younger.

2. Special Group Day Use

a. Municipal Recreation Groups

1 - 25 persons including staff and drivers = $ 250.00 per month.

Each additional group of 25 persons or parts thereof, additional $ 250.00 per month

b. Other Group Day Use (more than 25 people) = $ 3.00 per person when paid in one lump sum. If group members wish to pay individually, they will be subject to the regular day use fees.

3. School groups of grades K-12 on field trips = $.50 per person during the regular school year.

4. Season Passes

a. Vehicle pass = $ 90.00 per season. Additional vehicles registered to the same person(s) or other household members = $ 50.00.

b. Individual pass = $ 30 per season.

c. Organization Vehicle Pass = $ 180.00 for up to 17 persons in one vehicle. Timeline for implementation this pass is determined by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks & Recreation.

5. Day use punch card = $ 30.00 for ten visits.

6. Day Use Shelters

a. Shelters may be reserved for up to 11 months in advance of the date of the activity to take place in the shelter.

b. Button Bay Shelter = $ 200.00 full shelter rental fee plus regular per person day use fee. Mt. Philo Shelter = $ 200.00 Monday - Friday full shelter rental fee plus regular per person day use fee. = $ 300.00 Saturday & Sunday full shelter rental fee plus regular per person day use fee.

Branbury East and West Shelter = $ 50.00 rental fee plus regular per person day use fee.

Camp Plymouth Dining Hall = $ 300.00 rental fee plus regular per person day use fee.

Kingsland Bay Dining Hall = $ 2,500.00 Friday - Sunday (package includes day use admission, use of Theatre Building and Hawley House. $ 900.00 Monday - Thursday (includes regular per person day use fee but does not include Theater Building or Hawley House).

Kingsland Bay Theater Building or Hawley House = $ 150.00 (each) Monday- Thursday (includes regular per person day use fee).

Elmore Beach House (function room only) = $ 200.00 (including regular per person day use fee)

Kill Kare Hotel Building (including west function room, porch, lawn area and picnic shelter) = $ 1,200.00 (including regular per person day use fee)

Kill Kare Hotel Building (west function room only) = $ 300.00 (including regular per person day use fee)

All other shelters = $ 125.00 rental fee plus regular per person day use fee.

Note: All above shelter fees include a $ 25.00 non-refundable reservation fee.

c. Group use cleaning deposit (may be refundable) = $ 100.00 at all parks except Kingsland Bay Dining Hall and Kill Kare Hotel Building, which have different fee structures.

d. Canopy tents = Fees will be set to cover the cost of providing the service and will be competitive with rates charged for similar services in the area.

7. Rental Vessels

a. Canoes, rowboats and single kayaks with paddles and personal flotation devices = $ 10.00 per hour plus VT Sales Tax. Extended period fee = $ 30.00 for half day and $ 40.00 for full day plus VT Sales Tax.

b. Tandem kayaks with paddles and personal flotation devices = $ 12.00 per hour plus VT Sales Tax. Extended period fee = $ 32.00 for half day and $ 50.00 for full day plus VT Sales Tax.

c. Pedal boats with personal flotation devices = $ 7.00 per half hour plus VT Sales Tax. No extended period fee.

d. Standup paddle boards with paddle and personal flotation device = $ 20.00 per half hour plus VT Sales Tax.

e. Minimum rental is one hour for boats, canoes, and kayaks and half hour for pedal boats and standup paddle boards.

8. Charge for rubbish removal = $ 3.00 per bag for shelter group users unless otherwise included in rental fee; $ 1.00 per bag for other day visitors where service is available.

9. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may establish "deposits" for certain services. The deposit shall be administered directly by the park manager or their official designee, according to department procedures.

10. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may waive the day use fee and reservation fee for use of a picnic shelter or similar facility to host a meeting of any organization of which the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation is an official bona fide member or sponsor.

11. Refunds will be granted on day use admission fees only for unusual circumstances approved by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation.

IV. BURTON ISLAND STATE PARK

1. Transient dock slips shall be assigned by the Park Manager or Dockmaster. All vessels must check-in and receive a slip assignment before proceeding to their slip.

2. Slip assignments are not final until the vessel is officially checked-in at the contact station. Park staff reserve the right to change slip assignments at any time due to weather, lake level, or to maximize marina occupancy.

3. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may designate certain slips as day-use only slips from 9AM until 5PM. Transient day-use slips are first come, first serve until 5pm, after which, they will be converted to overnight slips.

4. There is no minimum reservation requirement for marina slips.

5.. Moorings are assigned on a first come, first served basis. There are no reservations for mooring space.

6. A portion of the dockage space may be reserved if so designated by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Except as modified herein, all appropriate provisions of Section II.a. apply for dock reservations as well. All boats less than 36 feet in length shall be assigned a finger dock until all finger docks are full. After that point, any longside docking remaining shall be allocated.

7. Registered campers with boats up to 16 feet in length may use a marina slip for no additional fee. Campers with boats greater than 16 feet but less than 25 feet will be assessed at the current marina rate for each foot in length more than 16 feet. Boats greater than 26 feet in length, or boats with persons sleeping aboard overnight, will be assessed at the full marina rate.

8. Dockage does not include a continuous water hookup.

9. No refuse or drainage of any type shall be dumped in the marina area.

10. Charcoal grills or open fires are prohibited aboard boats or on docks.

11. All boats shall be operated at no greater than steerage speed in or about the marina.

12. Swimming is prohibited in the marina area.

IV.a. Fees and Charges.

Burton Island State Park

1. The marina day, for fee purposes, shall be 11:00 a.m. to 10:59 a.m.

2. Fees may be charged for mooring or anchoring inside an officially designated mooring or anchoring area adjacent to a State Park.

The mooring or anchoring area subject to fee at Burton Island shall be the area inside of a line extending from the northernmost tip of the island which is northwest of the breakwater to the "red nun" marking the small boat channel between the island and Kill Kare State Park.

3. Docking = $ 2.25 per foot per day or any part thereof.

4. Moorings or Anchorings = $ 1.0 per foot per day or any part thereof.

5. Seasonal Slips at Burton Island Marina =$ 65.00 per foot; 18-foot minimum vessel length; Each slip includes four Island Runner Season Passes and one Vehicle Pass; $ 100.00 per day penalty if boat is not removed by final day of operating season.

6. Passenger Ferry Service = Fees shall be set as appropriate by Commissioner of Forests, Parks & Recreation based on market value and reasonable cost recovery.

7. Passenger Ferry Day Excursions = fees shall be set as appropriate by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation.

8. Electric hookups = $ 3.00 per day or any part thereof for 35 feet or under and $ 4.00 per day or any part thereof for longer than 35 feet.

9. Boat sanitary pump out station = Free for marina guests and $ 10.00 per pump out for non-guests.

10. Baggage handling fee to and from campsite = $ 10.00 each way.

V. SEYON LODGE STATE PARK

V.a. Concession.

1. All rules, regulations and fees may be modified in any concession license agreement.

V.b. Angling.

1. All anglers must hold a valid Vermont fishing license.

2. Fishing in Noyes Pond shall only be from rental boats or canoes provided by State Parks. Private car top boats or canoes as well as the use of outboard motors, including electric trolling motors is not allowed.

3. Only fly fishing with artificial flies is allowed. The flies shall be single hook only, and must be either barbless or the barb filed or crimped down. All equipment shall be subject to inspection.

4. To obtain optimum fishing, the number of boats and/or anglers allowed on Noyes Pond at any one time, shall be established by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation upon the advice of the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

5. There is no limit to the number of fish hooked and released. Daily limit and size of trout that may be taken shall be established by the Fish and Wildlife Board according to 10 V.S.A. Section 4082-4083 after consultation with the Departments of Forests, Parks and Recreation, and Fish and Wildlife.

6. Fishing is permitted only between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and a half hour after official sunset. The fishing season is the same as that set by the Fish and Wildlife Board for trout fishing.

V.c. Reservations for Boats to Fly Fish.

1 Reservations for boats for fly fishing shall be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis at the park beginning the first day of the annual operating season. There is a maximum consecutive reservation period of two days.

V.d. Use Restrictions.

1. Fishing from the shore, swimming and wading in Noyes Pond and its tributaries is not allowed.

2. Camping is not allowed in the Seyon Lodge State Park area.

V.e. Lodge and Grounds Use.

1. Groups (a minimum of five people regardless of age) may reserve the entire lodge and/or grounds up to 11 months in advance by paying the designated fees within two weeks of first contact. Individuals renting less than the entire lodge may reserve up to 6 months from the start of the rental period.

2. Groups exceeding 50 people must have catered or potluck meals.

3. Guest or visitor pets will not be allowed in the lodge. In winter, pets are not allowed on groomed cross-country trails.

4. Arrivals after 8:00 p.m. for overnight lodging will not be accommodated unless prior arrangements have been made with the lodge staff.

5. Quiet hours are 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

6. Check-out time for overnight guests is 11:00 a.m.

V.f. Fees and Charges.

Seyon Lodge State Park

1. All users, except anglers renting boats and those using or staying overnight at the lodge, shall pay the current park day use fee.

2. Seyon Lodge State Park Fees

a. Individual day use

Standard day use fees apply to all except those renting boats, and using or staying overnight at the lodge.

b. Boat rentals with oars and PFDs

$ 7.50=hour plus Vermont Sales Tax. Half day rate = $ 25.00. Full day rate = $ 40.00 plus Vermont Sales Tax.

c. Conference fees = $ 400.00 plus VT Meals and Rooms Tax for conference room only for up to 50 people and includes one "break" and coffee/tea for the entire day. $ 200.00 plus VT Meals and Rooms Tax, if appropriate, for 501(c)3 nonprofit groups for conference room only for up to 50 people and includes one "break" and coffee/tea for the entire day.

d. Wedding fees:

Small wedding up to 50 people = $ 500.00 including VT Meals and Rooms Tax. Large wedding 50 - 150 people = $ 1,500.00 including VT Meals and Rooms Tax.

Fee includes sole use of lodge and grounds for one day. Fee does not include any food or beverage service.

e. Overnight lodge fees:

Monday- Thursday nights = $ 750.00 including VT Meals and Rooms Tax per night for a group's sole use of the lodge and its indoor facilities for one night.

Friday- Sunday nights = $ 800.00 including VT Meals and Rooms Tax per night for a group's sole use of the lodge and its indoor facilities for one night.

Includes up to 16 overnight guests with a continental breakfast.

f. Per Room Rate = rates will be based on double occupancy according to the seasonal rates charged for similar services in the area. plus VT Meals and Rooms Tax. Additional individuals in a room will be charged an additional fee.

g. Meals = Fees for food service shall be set at rates that cover the costs of providing the service and are competitive with rates charged for similar services in the area.

h. Cleaning/damages = charges for unreasonable cleaning or repair will be assessed in accordance with methods/procedures used throughout the hospitality industry.

j. Service charge = a 15% service charge will be added to all fees associated with a group.

VI. GREEN RIVER RESERVOIR STATE PARK

VI.a. Individual Use.

1. The maximum individual campsite occupancy depends on the campsite but in no case is it greater than seven people regardless of age.

2. The maximum stay is seven consecutive nights.

3. Up to two vehicles permitted per campsite. There is a fee for additional vehicles.

VI.b. Group Use (8-12 People).

1. Groups shall camp on designated group campsites only.

2. The maximum group size is 12 people regardless of age.

3. Up to three (3) vehicles permitted per campsite. There is a fee for additional vehicles.

4. The maximum stay on a group campsite is 3 consecutive nights, not to exceed 9 nights total by the same party in the same operating season.

5. Groups shall obtain a Group Permit. Not more than 2 Group Permits will be issued for any calendar day. Not more than 10 group permits shall be issued to any group in any one operating season.

6. Fees:

Group (Day Use and Camping)

$ 25.00 Group Permit needed for each portion of a calendar day spent at park. Only two (2) group permits will be granted for each calendar day.

Group Campsite

a. $ 6.00 per person per night, minimum of eight persons = $ 48.00 per site.

b. $ 5.00 per additional vehicle.

VI.c. Commercial Activities.

1. Commercial or non-profit groups shall obtain a license prior to making reservations and/or using the park.

2. All commercial or non-profit groups (8-12 people) shall also be subject to Group Permit requirements.

3. No commercial or non-profit group activities will be allowed on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday).

VI.d. Reservations.

1. Reservations must be made at least two days prior to the beginning date of the reservation.

2. There is no minimum reservation period requirement.

VI.e. Pets.

1. During the operating season, visitors may bring domesticated or trained animals to designated campground areas provided they are safely confined or securely restrained on a leash not longer than ten feet.

VII. FEES AND CHARGES: GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

(Applies only to State Parks)

1. Credit cards and personal checks (not including traveler's checks) will be accepted for only the exact dollar amount for services, rentals or merchandise.

2. Charges for merchandise such as firewood, T-shirts, hats, publications, etc. shall be priced to cover purchase and production costs and be competitive with comparable commercial sales.

3. A valid receipt or ticket must be shown for reentry to a park.

4. No service, rental, or merchandise will be rendered until non-sufficient fund checks previously passed are paid first in cash, postal or bank money order or certified check. A service charge of $ 25.00 will be due on all checks returned for non-sufficient funds.

5. Organized programs of the Vermont State Hospital, Vermont Veteran's Home, and Regional Correctional Centers shall be admitted free of charge upon advance written application to the Director of State Parks. The letter from the Director of State Parks will be the ticket for admission when shown to the park attendant. Foster children shall be admitted free to State Parks upon presentation of appropriate identification applied for through the Director of State Parks.

6. Individuals or organizations may volunteer their efforts for training, research or other supportive purposes on public service projects or activities which will improve any portion of a State Park or its facilities or programs, or conduct a program which will improve the health, safety, education or welfare of the general public. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may authorize such projects in writing, give credit for the contribution, at his/her discretion, waive or reduce any fees and permit redemption of the credit for day use or camping within one year of the contribution.

7. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation is permitted to temporarily (not to exceed one season per project) adjust fees and charges at any area for the purposes of bona fide research or to handle an immediate need or concern.

8. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation is permitted to develop State Park experimental services, vacation or special event packages and offer discounted rates for those services and packages to promote the park system and increase campground occupancy.

9. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may charge restitution to any person that:

a. does any damage to any State Park land, facility, structure, vegetation, earth materials or timber, or,

b. is the party registered with the State Park facility for use of such facility, when the registered party and/or any visitors or guests of the registered party does any damage to any State Park land, facility, structure, vegetation, earth materials or timber.

Restitution charged shall reflect as closely as possible the actual costs of replacement or repair of facility or structure, or value of vegetation or timber, based on current market value. This provision does not preclude the Department from seeking other penalties when warranted.

10. REFUNDS OR CREDIT

The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation shall establish policies and procedures for refunding fees and/or granting credit for future use.

XIII. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES

(Applies to all Department lands)

1. Soliciting, vending, sale or rental of goods, wares or services in any recreation area is not allowed except the goods and services provided by the State of Vermont, and concessionaires under contractual agreement with the State of Vermont. Other exceptions include special occasions or events such as, but not limited to, catering service for group picnics.

2. Anyone engaging in a commercial activity must obtain a special use permit or license All associated fees, certificates of liability insurance, and endorsed license or special use permit documents must be submitted prior to the beginning of operations. Commercial business groups are distinguished from non-profit by the qualification of non-profit groups to possess a 501 C-3 IRS tax exemption.

3. Definitions:

A license is a formal written authorization for certain longer-term activities that may allow the user some interest in the land but does not transfer contractual, vested or property rights. The proposed use will not permanently exclude all other public uses of the land.

A special use permit is a formal written authorization for short-term, low-impact use by individuals and groups, requiring no or only minimal development and no permanent structures. Granting of a special use permit will be considered after it has been determined that a proposed use of public land meets the following conditions:

It will not dominate or preclude all other public uses of the lands for periods of more than one week.

It is short-term (one year or less).

It does not in any way, due to the type, scale or nature of associated development, presume annual renewals. The proposed activity must be feasible without the necessity of repeated annual renewal. If it is not legitimately possible without the guarantee of annual renewal, a special use permit is inappropriate.

It will not involve a permanent structure of any permanent significant change to the land. Minimal timber cutting, skidding, landing, and hauling especially for temporary rights-of-way may be exempted from this constraint. Any permitted timber removal will be undertaken according to a cutting plan and stumpage payment approved by the Department.

Notwithstanding the above conditions, any event or short-term special use for which an open invitation to the general public is offered shall require a special use permit.

a. A special use permit or license is required for any activity proposed by a commercial or non-profit entity using Department lands that does not have a lease and the activity meets at least one of the following criteria:

1) is organized or publicized, or

2) involves a fee (charged to participants), or

3) alters a site or alters/removes natural resources, or

4) may conflict with other established, traditional uses.

b. There is a fee per area charge.

c. The terms are usually for one year or season for licenses and less than one year for special use permits.

4. License/Special Use Permit Fees:

Fees are charged to cover costs associated with administering special use permits and licenses, management and operational activities of staff for resource protection and visitor use, and to protect public resources for private use and gains.

Base Administration Fee: Minimum $ 50.00 for all special use permits and licenses except as noted below. Base administration fees are not assessed on an annual basis, but are assessed once for the duration of the license or special use permit.

Requests for a license or special use permit that must be expedited by staff to meet the short timeframe of the applicant may be assessed an additional 'premium' base fee of $ 50.00. Expedited requests for special use permits and licenses are those that are submitted to the Department less than 30 days prior to the start date of the requested activity.

Additional Fees:

a. Guided recreational activities and services (includes for profit, educational, and nonprofit trips). $ 50.00 base fee plus current state park day use or camping fee per person per day regardless of activity. If licensed activity occurs at a state park where a day use or camping fee is charged to the public, then licensee will not be assessed both this per person per day fee and the standard state park day use or camping fee. Guided hunting, fishing, and trapping activities on Department lands are not assessed any fees and do not generally require a license or special use permit. (Individuals participating in these activities must still obtain a hunting, fishing or trapping license from the Department of Fish and Wildlife.)

b. Recreational, Cultural, and Other Special Events (including weddings and family reunions). $ 50.00 base fee plus current state park day use fee for individuals or groups.

c. Agricultural Use. $ 50.00 base fee plus prevailing rate for agricultural lands for specific uses ($ per acre) as determined by the Department of Agriculture, Extension Service, or by other means, or fees may be waived for special circumstances (e.g., wildlife benefits from agricultural practices, keeping a field open to maintain a view, etc.)

d. Utility Right-of-Way $ 50.00 base fee plus $ 1.00 per linear foot for Electric Distribution Lines and Telephone Lines; $ 2.00 per linear foot for Fiber Optic Cable Lines and Transmission Lines; $ 3.00 per linear foot for Pipelines. Minimum fee of infrastructure on Department land such as guy wire(s), etc. $ 1,000.00 minimum fee for fiber optic lines, transmission lines and pipelines. Fees may be reduced or waived if the utility line services a Department facility $ 1,500.00 for utility cabinet sites (up to 20 feet by 20 feet). Utility license fees are based on a ten year license period. For utility projects whose scope and scale have the potential to significantly impact Department land, the Department in its discretion may decide to seek legislative authority to issue a long-term lease for a negotiated fee or to convey a permanent easement based on appraised value.

e. Time Trials/Mountain Roads. $ 50.00 base fee plus minimum $ 750.00 per day (e.g., $ 1500 fee for typical two-day reservation).

f. Temporary Rights-of-Way. $ 50.00 base fee plus bond amount sufficient to insure protection of Department resources.

g. Permit for sale of forest products from state land (brush, seedlings, other $ 50.00 base fee, plus a reasonable charge for product. Fees assessed for firewood cutting permits shall be a minimum of $ 10.00 per cord.

h. Housing Rentals. Market value rental rate for the area.

i. Concessionaires/Vendors. $ 50.00 base fee plus negotiated percentage of gross sales.

j. Research/Scientific. Base fee and other fees may be waived if final research results are provided to the Agency.

k. ATV Access to Designated ANR Lands by Disabled Persons. Fees are waived.

l. Training Activities - Civil and Military Fees may be waived by Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation.

m. Commercial Photo Shoots, Advertisements, etc. $ 50.00 base fee plus negotiated fee depending on impact, duration, etc.

n. Primitive Camping. $ 50 base fee assessed for special use permit for group of 10 or more people.

5. In addition to the minimum fees noted herein, the total fee for any license or special use permit shall be an amount sufficient to reflect the cost of accommodating the activity. Consideration shall be given to commitment of necessary human and natural resources, displacement of other uses, clean up costs, etc.

6. The Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation may waive or reduce any fees charged to licensees or permittees providing services to enhance the Department's efforts to manage its lands or for training, research or other supporting services or activities.

X. ENFORCEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION

(Applies to all Department lands)

1. A person who violates any rule may be asked to leave Department land. A person refusing to leave the property may be arrested and prosecuted under State trespass law.

2. A person who violates a rule or regulation prescribed under Section 2603(c) of Title 10 may be imprisoned not more than thirty days or fined not more than $ 50.00 or both. Such person shall be liable for all damages resulting from a violation to be recovered in a civil action under this statute by the person injured (Title 10, Section 2608, Vermont Statutes, Annotated, 1977).

3. The Department will provide the same services and recreational opportunities to all legitimate state lands visitors without regard to handicap, race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, marital status, or sexual orientation.

4. In the event any of these Rules, or any portion thereof, is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal or void, the remainder thereof shall be deemed unaffected and shall continue in full force and effect.

12-009 Code Vt. R. 12-020-009-X

EFFECTIVE DATE:
January 1, 1994 Secretary of State Rule Log # 93-89
AMENDED:
January 1, 1997 Secretary of State Rule Log # 96-82; January 1, 2000 Secretary of State Rule Log # 99-79; April 28, 2001 Secretary of State Rule Log # 01-21; February 18, 2002 Secretary of State Rule Log # 02-05; April 30, 2003 Secretary of State Rule Log # 03-11; May 21, 2004 Secretary of State Rule Log # 04-15; June 3, 2005 Secretary of State Rule Log # 05-14; April 1, 2006 Secretary of State Rule Log # 06-008; June 15, 2007 Secretary of State Rule Log #07-013; May 15, 2008 Secretary of State Rule Log #08-017; June 3, 2009 Secretary of State Rule Log #09-018; January 7, 2011 Secretary of State Rule Log #10-046; July 17, 2012 Secretary of State Rule Log #12-023; June 18, 2014 Secretary of State Rule Log #14-021; July 11, 2015 Secretary of State Rule Log #15-028; October 30, 2019 Secretary of State Rule Log #19-055; 8/24/2022 Secretary of State Rule Log #22-024

STATUTORY AUTHORITY:

3 V.S.A. § 2583; 10 V.S.A. §§ 2603, 2606b