Management

Management of Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary is a collaborative effort dedicated to preserving the region's diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and numerous cultural and historical resources. Through strong partnerships with federal, state, and Native Hawaiian organizations—including the Sanctuary Advisory Council, the Marine National Monument Management Board, and the Native Hawaiian Cultural Working Group—the sanctuary employs a co-management approach that integrates regulatory tools and community input. This ensures that Papahānaumokuākea remains a globally-significant and well-protected sanctuary for present and future generations.

a hawaiian monk seal underwater

Co-Management

NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries co-manages the sanctuary with the state of Hawaiʻi and in partnership with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, consistent with the existing management of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

a traditional sailing vessel in beautiful blue water alongside a rocky outcropping

Management Documents

The sanctuary's management plan determines how the sanctuary and its staff conduct daily operations, including scientific research, outreach, education, and collaboration with partners. The final management plan is informed by public comments on the draft sanctuary designation documents, as well as engagement with monument co-trustees.

colorful fish swimming in a reef

Regulations

The national marine sanctuary has its own set of regulations to protect important natural, cultural, and historical resources, while allowing authorized access and responsible use within the sanctuary boundary. Learn which activities are prohibited or regulated within Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary.

researcher surveys underwater

Permits

Visitation to the sanctuary is allowed only by permit, except for emergency response, law enforcement, armed forces activities and exercises, non-commercial fishing in the Outer Sanctuary Zone authorized under the Magnuson–Stevens Act, scientific exploration or research in the Outer Sanctuary Zone conducted by or for the secretaries of commerce or the interior, and uninterrupted passage through the sanctuary that complies with ship reporting requirements. The sanctuary permitting process is fully integrated into the existing permitting process for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.