Ketchikan’s Tourism Best Management Practices Program Introduction

Tourism Best Management Practices (TBMP) is a voluntary, community-based program that supports responsible tourism in Ketchikan. Modeled after the long-standing TBMP program established in Juneau in 1997, the Ketchikan program was developed to encourage thoughtful operations, address community concerns, and support positive visitor experiences.

As Ketchikan’s visitor industry has grown, community conversations around tourism have grown alongside it. In 2019, the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau Board of Directors approved the formation of a steering committee to develop a locally focused TBMP program tailored to Ketchikan’s needs.

Program Goals

The TBMP program was created to:

  • Support positive visitor experiences and Ketchikan’s reputation as a welcoming destination

  • Provide practical tools and guidelines for tourism-related businesses

  • Offer a clear, respectful way for community members to share feedback and ask questions

How the Program Works

Participating businesses and organizations agree to:

  • Incorporate applicable TBMP best practices into their operations

  • Train staff on relevant guidelines and expectations

  • Respond to questions or concerns shared through the TBMP program

TBMP also provides resources to support participation, including a program handbook, online guidelines, and direct contact options for community feedback.

Important Notes

TBMP guidelines are intended to complement, not replace, applicable city, state, or federal regulations.

Businesses and organizations that successfully complete participation and training requirements may be listed on the TBMP website and included in promotional materials. TBMP logo use and decals are provided to participating partners.

Program Administration

The Ketchikan TBMP program is administered by the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, with oversight and support from partner agencies and municipalities. Funding is provided through  the Ketchikan Gateway Borough.

APPENDICES

City of Ketchikan Municipal Code sections
Consumer Sales Tax
Off Premises Commercial Solicitation Restrictions
Port of Ketchikan and Harbors
Public Vehicles
Vehicles and Traffic
Ketchikan Cruise Ship Schedule
Ketchikan Gateway Borough Ordinances
Ketchikan Misty Fjords Outfitter and Guide Management Plan
Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act Regulations
https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/alaska/marine-mammal-protection/protecting-marine-lifealaska
Alaska Marine Mammals Viewing Guidelines
Marine Mammals of the US North Pacific and Arctic
Marine Vessel Visible Emission Standards (18 AAC 50 .070)
The Sounds of a Port
Smokefree Alaska
TAPA Air Operator Letter of Agreement
TBMP Employee Agreement
TBMP Internal Observation Form