Permits
Individuals or groups requesting use of Reclamation lands, waters, and/or facilities at Lake Berryessa for short-term special events or activities must possess an approved permit. Please remember that possession of a permit does not waive the requirement to pay day use and boat launch fees.
Special Event Permits
Fishing tournaments, weddings, and non-profit tours are all examples of events beyond our normal park activities that require greater planning and communication with our staff. The following are broad definitions of our fee classes that may change depending on the complexity of your proposed event.
- Small Fishing Tournament or Group Event. Up to 25 boats, or an event up to 50 people, including the audience. $90
- Mid-level Fishing Tournament or Group Event. 26 to 50 boats, or an event involving up to 100 people including the audience. $155
- Large Fishing Tournament or Group Event. 51 to 150 boats, or an event involving up to 300 people, including the audience. $420
Applicants must submit a Special Event Permit Form to SHA-MPR-BerryessaPermits@USBR.GOV. Applications must be received no later than 14 days prior to the start of the event.
- Special Event Permit Application
Houseboat Permits
Lake Berryessa's Reservoir Area Management Plan capped the Lake's carrying capacity for houseboats at 75 private vessels. To moore a houseboat on the lake you must apply for, and successfully complete, a permit from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. All communications should be addressed to the Lake Berryessa Field Office's public information email: BOR-Berryessa@USBR.GOV
- New Permits and Change of Ownership: Contact the Field Office to be placed on the waiting list. Once a permit is available, the applicant with the highest priority has 15 days to respond to the Field Office to confirm their interest
- Renewal: Contact the Field Office to obtain a Self Inspection Form. Confirmation of a current moorage agreement and DMV registration will need to be submitted along with permit fees.
- Houseboat Replacement: Notify the Field Office of the intent to replace the houseboat with another of the same ownership. Submit plans, photos, and DMV verification of the replacement houseboat. After an inspection, the replacement vessel must be placed on the lake with 30 days of the old vessel's removal.
A map of permitted houseboat mooring areas can be found here: (Insert PDF)
Competitive Use Authorizations
Lake Berryessa does not currently issue Competitive Use Authorization for food vendors, fishing guides, equipment rentals, and other business opportunities. We are accepting feedback on your interest in future opportunities at SHA-MPR-BerryessaPermits@USBR.GOV . Please note, until a permit system is devised and implemented, these activities are not authorized at our site.
Noncompetitive Use Authorizations
All activities or events beyond average recreational activities, that are not covered by Special Event Permits, Houseboat Permits, or Competitive Use Authorizations, require a Noncompetitive Use Authorization. This includes commercial filming.
- Applicants must complete a Bureau of Reclamation Use Authorization Application (Form 7-250) or an Application for Transportation and Utility Systems and Facilities on Federal Lands (SF 299).
- Mail the Application and a $100 check made out to "Bureau of Reclamation" to:
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
Central California Area Office
7794 Folsom Dam Road
Folsom, CA 95630
