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Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) for Bus & Group Tour Operators

As part of the updated policies for operating commercial tours in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park, all bus and group travel companies must now have their own Commercial Use Authorization (CUA).

In the past, some companies were able to operate under our CUA, but that is no longer permitted. We are not able to extend our CUA to other companies, nor can we obtain a separate CUA with a $5 million liability policy on behalf of others.

To continue partnering with us as your step-on guides, each company must secure their own CUA. This page breaks down the requirements and process in simple terms so you can get authorized quickly and confidently.

What is a CUA?

A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a permit issued by the National Park Service (NPS) that allows businesses to provide commercial services inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For bus and group tours, the specific authorization needed is a Road-Based Commercial Tours CUA.

Without a valid CUA, a company cannot operate guided tours in the park — including driving, stopping at overlooks, conducting narrated tours, or otherwise engaging with passengers within park boundaries.

Who Needs a CUA?

You need a Road-Based Commercial Tours CUA if your business:

  • Operates group tours in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Uses a bus, van, shuttle, or similar vehicle to transport paying customers
  • Provides guided narration or step-on guiding services at park locations
  • Picks up or drops off passengers inside park boundaries

This applies to all companies regardless of whether you have previously operated under another company’s authorization.

CUA permitted bus and school group at Newfound Gap

Core Requirements for a Road-Based Commercial Tours CUA

✅ 1. Company Information

You’ll need to provide:

  • Legal business name and address
  • Contact information for the owner/manager
  • Proof of business registration

✅ 2. Vehicle Information

For each vehicle you operate:

  • Make, model, and license plate
  • Seating capacity
  • Photos or registration documentation

✅ 3. Proof of Insurance

Your CUA must be backed by:

  • Commercial liability insurance
  • Minimum coverage required by NPS (typically $5 million for road-based tours)

(Note: This insurance must be in your company’s name and cover operations within the national park.)

✅ 4. Tour Plan

You’ll describe:

  • Routes you intend to use in the park
  • Approximate schedule or frequency of tours
  • Types of services offered (e.g., narration, scenic stops)

How to Apply for a CUA

  1. Review the NPS CUA Information
  2. Complete & Submit the Application
    • The application is typically submitted to the park’s Permits Office
    • Be sure all requested documents (insurance, vehicle details, tour plan) are included
  3. Wait for Approval
    • The park reviews your application for completeness and compliance
    • Once approved, you’ll receive your CUA with effective dates
  4. Maintain Your Authorization
    • CUAs are usually issued for a calendar year
    • Renew before expiration
    • Update your insurance or vehicle information if needed
  1. Review the NPS CUA Information
  2. Complete & Submit the Application
    • The application is typically submitted to the park’s Permits Office
    • Be sure all requested documents (insurance, vehicle details, tour plan) are included
  3. Wait for Approval
    • The park reviews your application for completeness and compliance
    • Once approved, you’ll receive your CUA with effective dates
  4. Maintain Your Authorization
    • CUAs are usually issued for a calendar year
    • Renew before expiration
    • Update your insurance or vehicle information if needed

Once You’re Authorized

CUA permitted bus and School Group out with A Walk in the Woods

Once you have your own Road-Based Commercial Tours CUA:

  • We can continue to serve as your step-on guides during tours
  • Our CUA’s cover hiking, so we can split your group in compliance with the Park to get your group out on the trail!
  • You’ll be fully compliant with NPS requirements
  • Your operations in the park will be legal and protected
School group with our guide Bob.

Need Help?

We’re happy to answer questions and help guide you through this process. Contact us at:

📧 info@awalkinthewood.com
📞 865-436-8283