Bull Creek Preserve Entry Permits are issued in January and February of every year, just before the golden-cheeked warbler breeding season beginning in March, and are valid for three seasons. This is a free City of Austin program.

Earning an Entry Permit for the first time is a 4-step process:

1. All permits have been issued for the 2011 season. The nesting season has begun so only hikers who have a permit are allowed to access the preserve. If you would like to be notified when registration is beginning for the next course cycle, please send your name, email address and a phone number (in case your email address changes) to the coordinator for the course at 512-972-1690 or via email.

   Once you are notified about the new permit season early in 2012, you will need to reserve space in a Bull Creek Permit Hike (the final step) through our online calendar and registration system. After submitting your registration you will receive an important email as confirmation with links to help you complete the following steps. For assistance, please contact Amanda Ross via email or at 972-1690.

2. Read through the Bull Creek EcoWeb Tour available year-round as an educational site.

3. Pass a 30-question multiple-choice test, accessible through confirmation, with a minimum score of 80. Only scores for those that have registered are accepted.

4. Passing the test qualifies individuals to participate in a two-hour staff-guided interpretive hike in the Bull Creek Preserve, the fourth and final step. Entry Permits are given or mailed following the completion of a hike.

Renewing a previously earned Entry Permit. . .

. . will involve retaking and passing the permit test so we are assured permit holders continue to be an educated user group aware of the conservation mission of the Bull Creek Preserve. You will not need to attend a guided hike again.

The permit distribution season is closed until late December. Until that time, please review the steps necessary to obtain a permit and contact city staff to be placed on the notification list for a 2012 permit.

At the beginning of the calendar year, staff will send out an email to those needing permit renewals based on the email on file. The message will include links to help direct you to the Bull Creek EcoWeb Tour and Permit Test, and a reminder to send in a new photo with personal information. If your email has changed since earning a permit or if you have questions, contact the permit course coordinator at 972-1690 or via email with your new address.