Decision
7.0.4.9. Merit badges through an organisation that is not Scouting
Required
Zoos, museums, recreation centres, large home improvement stores, individuals. Whether council approval is needed turns on one distinction: is fulfilling merit badge requirements incidental to the programme, or is the programme largely for the purpose of offering merit badges?
Notes and warnings
Tip. The whole branch turns on one word. Incidental means the programme exists for its own reasons and merit badge requirements happen to be met along the way. Once the merit badges are largely the point, the council has to approve it, fee or no fee.
Where this step comes from
- Guide to Advancement (2025), Section 7.0.4.9 · Merit badge opportunities with non-Scouting organizations or businesses.