BSA Local Tour Permit                                   BSA National Tour Permit

WHY A TOUR PERMIT?

The single highest number of injuries and fatalities in the United States and Scouting are caused by motor vehicle accidents.

A tour permit that has been filed with and approved by the local Scout Council prior to the activity registers the activity as an official Scouting activity. BSA's insurance coverage only applies to official Scouting activities.

Reinforces driver requirements and insurance requirements and encourages routine maintenance checks on vehicles prior to the trip.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF TOUR PERMITS?

Provide the Scout executive with information regarding unit outings and trips - i.e. - a tour permit helps you know "what is going on".

Reinforces leader requirements, especially in regards to Youth Protection, transportation, and aquatic activities. Make sure current forms are used.

Can provide information necessary to locate a pack, troop or post if an emergency arises and lets the council know point of contact when an emergency situation develops.

In summary tour permits re-enforce planning, safety, and two-deep leadership.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO FILE THE TOUR PERMIT TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE?

The two-week (in advance) filing requirement helps ensure that trips are well planned. Because of the large number of tour permits filed, late/rush filings cause delays for those who file promptly.

If there are concerns with a tour permit, the two-week filing requirement allows time for correction avoiding cancellation of the trip.

WHAT ACTIVITIES REQUIRE A NATIONAL TOUR PERMITS APPLICATION?

For tours or trips 500 miles or over one way, a National tour permit application is required.

Source:  BSA Risk Management Notebook

 Tips to insure a successful tour permit application:

·     Local Tour Permit Applications must be filed for tours and trips under 500 miles one way. 

·        Plan ahead – submit your Tour Permit Application early.

·        Fill out the Tour Permit Application, front and back, completely.  Incomplete applications cannot be approved.

·        Be sure your adult leadership and youth have adequate training for the program planned.

·        BSA policy requires at least two adult leaders on all camping trips and tours.

·        At least one adult leader who has completed BSA Youth Protection Training must be present at the activity.

·        At least one adult on a pack overnighter must have completed Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO).

·        If you wish to receive an approved Tour Permit by facsimile, be sure to provide the phone number.

·        Most short, in-town den trips of a few hours do not require a tour permit; however, it is recommended that dens obtain permission slips from parents.