Can You Visit Norfolk Naval Base?
The United States Naval Station Norfolk, often referred to as Norfolk Navy Base, is the world’s largest naval station. Situated in Norfolk, Virginia, it serves as a major hub for Navy and Coast Guard operations along the East Coast. One natural question that arises is "Can you visit Norfolk Naval Base?" The answer to this question is not simply "yes" or "no." The base offers different levels of access depending on the purpose of visitation and the security protocol measures that are in place for each area.
Eligibility for Visits
Before we dive deeper, it’s essential to determine who can visit Norfolk Naval Base. The US Department of Defense (DOD) has specific criteria to ensure the security of naval operations and personnel.
The following individuals are granted unauthorized access to the base without further clearance:
- Honorable discharged veterans
- Immediate family members of authorized base personnel (with current DD Form 214 showing dates of service)
- Students attending the USN Command and Staff College at Nimitz-Hansen Annex
- Visitors sponsoring sponsored personnel (with clearance notification)
Visitors requiring clearance
The DOD has implemented strict procedures to ensure the security and protection of sensitive information.
If you fall into this category, you’ll require advanced clearance through the Secure Online Access Management System (SOLAMS) on behalf of the visitor being sponsored. This includes:
• Contractors and consultant partners
• Public interest visitors (media and news organizations)
Civilian employees and their sponsoring activities
General Service Administration (GSA) personnel
Forms of Access
There are distinct forms of access tailored to specific purposes:
- One Day Access**: For a quick or one-time visit without accommodation, visitors can acquire same-day clearance at various stations throughout the base with sponsored personnel present.
- Temporary Access (DA Form 2763) for up to 120 days**: Visitors whose needs exceed a one-time clearance can request temporary authorization by submitting a DA 2763 form.
- Long-Term Clearance for 121+ Days (DA Form 3008)**: Visitors anticipating long-term stays on base submit a DA 3008 form for approval via SOLOMS.
Permitted Areas
Approved visitors can access various on-base facilities, including admin buildings, food concessions, and base pools and recreational areas subject to specific restrictions and sponsored visitor supervision.
Other Restricted Areas
Visitors who require access to security zones, air stations, or ships are classified as "SC IF REL". Security zone access is only for sponsors with a Background Security Investigation (BSI) and a Secret Compartmented Information (Sensitive Compartmented Information-SCP) clearance level and above.
Things You Cannot Bring
For every approved visitor, it is mandatory to adhere to federal law and base regulations with regard to prohibited items during entry:
- Unauthorized entry: Any attempt by visitors to bypass security processes results in immediate ejection, potential criminal charges, or both.
- _Cell phones and electronic equipment will be subject to _takedown _if approved.
Visiting Options for Non-Eligible Visitors
If clearance protocols are not met:
- • **Take a narrated tour**: Norfolk Guided Tours offers 12-year-old and older admission; children under 5 attend for free. Some visitors may not have approval in advance.
**Attend authorized events**: Specific occurrences hosted by the Navy Community Theatre, Naval Station Visitor Services, or other government sources may allow for entrance into restricted areas for qualified applicants.
• **Staycation rentals**: Local accommodations exist offering a glimpse into living spaces near the base to capture the essence of station experience.
Remember, specific arrangements and requirements for different sections of the base govern its accessibility. Prior Planning Makes Perfect; inquire about clearance and accessibility criteria before your visit.
When planning your visit:
