MCAGCC Civilian Dress Code

Questions or Feedback?

Have a question, comment, concern, or suggestion about the MCCS Community Access Program? We want to hear from you.

Email us at 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Community Access Program (CAP)?

The Community Access Program allows eligible local residents to apply for controlled access to designated MCCS facilities. All applicants undergo the same stringent vetting and background screening process required of plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and other contractors who work inside servicemembers’ homes aboard the Combat Center.

Why is the installation offering the Community Access Program?

Several MCCS revenue-generating facilities are currently underutilized by the base population creating a deficit and running the risk of closure.

Will this effect installation security?

Statistically, no. Multiple installations have operated similar community‑access programs for over 20 years with no security incidents. All applicants undergo the same background checks and vetting required for any employee who requires base access, and the DBIDS system continuously updates and monitors criminal and sex‑offender data in real time.

How are CAP participants monitored?

CAP participants receive DBIDS credentials restricting access to designated MCCS facilities. Military Police and facility staff monitor boundaries. PMO conducts regular and directed patrols, and all personnel are subject to Random Antiterrorism Measures (RAMs), including vehicle searches and ID checks. Upon accessing the base DBIDS runs live criminal and sex offender registry queries. Violations may result in immediate revocation of their DBIDS card and base access may be suspended.

How is access to housing, schools, playgrounds, and youth facilities enforced?

CAP participants are prohibited from entering housing areas, playgrounds, schools, gyms, pools, sports fields, and any location primarily used by military families. Enforcement relies on Military Police patrols, facility staff oversight, restricted area signage, and community vigilance (“See Something, Say Something”). Violations may result in immediate removal and loss of access.

Will military members and their families still have priority?

Yes. Authorized military remain the priority for MCCS facilities and services. The Community Access Program is intended to use available capacity while preserving the installation's commitment to serving Marines, Sailors, and military families first, and foremost.

Does this program provide access to the entire installation?

No. The Community Access Program does not provide open or unrestricted access to MCAGCC. Access is limited to approved MCCS facilities. Participation does not grant access to operational areas, military housing, or other restricted locations and facilities.

Will access be available at all times?

No. The Community Access Program DBIDS credential holders may access the installation as early as 5:00 am and must exit by 10:00 pm. Access may also be limited, modified, or suspended due to mission requirements, security conditions, maintenance, facility capacity, or other operational considerations.

Who is eligible to participate?

Residents that live within a 35-mile radius of the installation, including communities such as Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley provided applicants pass a background check via the DBIDs process.

To apply, will I need to undergo a background check?

Yes. All applicants undergo the same background checks required for any individual who needs base access. DBIDS continuously updates criminal and sex‑offender data in real time.

How do I apply for access?

When the official start date is announced, applicants will follow the “How to Enroll” process found on this page and will be guided through the process once the program is implemented.

Is there a fee to apply?

There is a $25 annual administrative processing fee associated for the Community Access Program.

Which facilities will be available through the program?

Access is limited to approved participating facilities. The current list of participating facilities will be maintained on this page.

Can I bring guests or minor children with me?

Guest and minor access requirements are governed by current MCAGCC Visitor Center and installation access policies. The Community Access Program participants should review the current access requirements before planning a visit. Current access requirements can be found on the MCAGCC Visitor Center page.

What happens if I enter an unauthorized area or violate installation rules?

Participants are expected to comply with all installation rules, policies, and facility requirements. Violations may result in removal from the installation and revocation of access privileges. Additional administrative or criminal consequences may apply depending on the nature of the violation.

What should CAP participants do during an installation emergency or lockdown?

During an installation emergency, lockdown, or other emergency conditions, Community Access Program participants must follow the directions provided by facility staff and/or Military Police/First Responders.

Can the Community Access Program be changed or suspended?

Yes. Access and program procedures may be modified, restricted, or suspended when required by mission, security, safety, or operational needs. Installation Commanding General retains authority over the program and access to MCAGCC.

How will community participation benefit Marines and military families?

Revenue generated through participating MCCS facilities supports the long-term sustainability of MCCS programs and services, including quality-of-life programs, recreation, family activities, youth initiatives, facility maintenance, and improvements that benefit Marines, Sailors, and military families.

Where can I learn more or submit a question, comment, or concern?

Bookmark this page and come back for future updates to the program. Information about the DBIDS application and installation access process will be available through the official MCAGCC Visitor Center webpage. Questions, comments, or concerns about CAP may be submitted to 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org.

Will CAP participants receive tax-free benefits at the exchange?

CAP patrons may purchase consumable items (food, water, batteries, etc.) tax-free at the MCX. All other non-consumable items (clothing, electronics, tools, etc.) are not available for purchase by CAP patrons and are monitored by MCX staff.

Will CAP-authorized vehicles be identifiable?

CAP access is credential-based, not vehicle-based. Security personnel identify CAP visitors through DBIDS at entry points and credential checks at facilities.

What security measures are in place?

  • Live background checks and screening against law enforcement databases
  • Restricted area signage and enhanced monitoring of facilities
  • Immediate credential revocation for violations
  • Regular and directed PMO patrols
  • Community reporting and rapid response to suspicious activity

Additional Clarification:

  • Military families remain the priority for all MCCS services
  • CAP participants cannot purchase alcohol, tobacco, firearms, or ammunition
  • CAP participants cannot use gyms, fitness facilities, child-care centers, chow halls, Naval Hospital stores, Camp Wilson, football fields, obstacle courses, or adventure trails
  • CAP participants are not permitted in residential neighborhoods, playgrounds, schools, or any location primarily used by military families
  • CAP does not change sponsor-based access rules for military families
  • Trusted Traveler is separate from CAP; CAP participants are solely accountable for their own conduct.
Download the FAQs

Community Access Program

Experience the same facilities trusted by Marines and their families.

Residents of the local community can now enjoy limited access to select services and facilities aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. This partnership helps expand recreational, dining, shopping and service options available to the local community while supporting Quality-of-Life programs for service members and their families.

What facilities can you enjoy?

Card Image

Dining

From convenient grab-and-go selections to refined sit-down experiences at Table Two Nine, MCCS 29 Palms provides dining options to suit every taste. Click below for menus, operating hours and more.

Explore All Dining Options
Card Image

Golf

The Desert Winds Golf Course is the only 18-hole championship course with a 60-mile radius, complete with a 24/7 driving range and a full clubhouse. Carts, clubs and accessories available. Public tee times available by calling 48 hours in advance. 

More Info
Card Image

Shopping

Stop by our Marine Corps Exchange facilities and shop for a variety of consumable items, along with officially licensed USMC logo merchandise. Whether you're picking up everyday essentials or looking for Marine Corps gear, we look forward to seeing you.

More Info
Card Image

Bowling

Sandy Hill Lanes offers a fun indoor recreation experience for all skill levels, featuring individual and group open bowling as well as competitive events. Beyond bowling, you can play your favorite tunes on the juke box, satisfy your appetite at Game Time Grill, or take advantage of the Pro Shop’s retail sales and services.  

More Info
Card Image

Automotive

Take advantage of our full service Semper Ride repair and maintenance and have our ASE technicians do the work for you at the Auto Skills Center. Wait in the lobby, shop at the Parts Store,  or drop off your vehicle and pick it up later.

More Info
Card Image

Movies

Sunset Cinema shows first-run movies seven days a week. Enjoy your favorite concession items: popcorn, candy, fountain drinks and other movie snacks.

More Info
Card Image

Services

Take care of everyday needs with convenient services available on the base. From dry cleaning to car rental, laser engraving and specialty services, there are options to help make life a little easier.

See Available Services
Card Image

Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures provides recreational rentals, including equipment for winter and summer sports, camping, garden and party gear. Children’s games, tables, chairs, canopies and inflatables are also available.

More Info

How to Enroll

The Community Access Program (CAP) is open to all U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old or accompanied by a participant over the age of 18 that reside within a 35-mile radius of the base. 

Here are the steps on how to apply:

  1. Download and complete the Statement of Understanding (SOU) form - coming soon
  2. Use the website on the SOU form to pay the $25 annual membership fee and note the receipt number in the appropriate portion of the SOU form.
  3. Submit completed form to 29CommunityAccessProgram@usmc-mccs.org
  4. Once approved, you will receive an email to pre enroll in DBIDS and setup an appointment at the MCAGCC Visitor Center
Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Outdated Browser

×