Posted: Feb 10, 2012 12:55 PM
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - A federal appeals court says roadside picnickers or hikers and campers using undeveloped areas of a southern Arizona forest cannot be charged parking fees.
Plaintiffs in a case challenging the fees at Mount Lemmon say a decision by the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals could have broader impacts on U.S. Forest Service policies.
The court says everyone is entitled to free entrance to national forests.
The Coronado National Forest collects fees from drivers who park in a mile-wide swath of forest running along a 28-mile highway. The agency argued the fees are valid because drivers could use amenities required under federal law in the high-impact area.
But the court calls the argument illogical and sided with recreational users.
A Forest Service spokeswoman says the agency hasn't reviewed the ruling.
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