The management of the national park system and NPS programs is guided by the Constitution, public laws, proclamations, executive orders, rules and regulations, and directives of the Secretary of the Interior and the Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. NPS policy must be consistent with these higher authorities and with appropriate delegations of authority. Many of the statutes and other guidance affecting the various facets of NPS administration and management are cited for reference purposes throughout the NPS Management Policies. Other laws, regulations, and policies related to the administration of federal programs, although not cited, may also apply. For example, many but not all of the legislative exceptions of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act are cited at different places throughout the policies.
Policy sets the framework and provides direction for management decisions.
All policy will be articulated in writing, approved by an NPS official authorized to issue the policy, and published or otherwise made available to those whom it affects and those who must implement it in the Washington office, regional offices, and parks. Servicewide policy will be articulated by the Director of the National Park Service. Instructions, guidance, and directives of regional or otherwise limited application that are supplementary to and in conformance with applicable NPS policies may be issued by regional directors or associate directors within formal delegations of authority. Adherence to policy will be mandatory unless waived or modified by an appropriate authority. Servicewide policy may be waived only by the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, or the Director.