Bill > HB657

This bill requires the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to create a new reservation system for state parks that provides preferential access to local residents. Specifically, the bill mandates that a portion of day-use spaces at state parks with hiking trails, beaches, and picnic areas be reserved exclusively for New Hampshire residents aged 18 or older who live within the park's connecting town or within a 5-mile radius. Local residents will be allowed to make day-use reservations up to and including the day of park entry, ensuring they have priority access to park facilities. The reservation system will operate on a first-come, first-served basis for these reserved spaces, similar to how handicapped parking spaces are allocated. The department is required to develop rules for implementing this system and conduct periodic reviews to ensure compliance. Parks primarily focused on overnight accommodations or camping are excluded from these provisions. The new reservation system aims to improve recreational access for nearby residents and will take effect 60 days after the bill's passage. The fiscal impact of the bill is still being evaluated, with the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant awaiting additional information from the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0326&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB657