Landowners and occupiers
- Stiles and gates should be safe to use and not obstruct the path. Gates should not be locked. Stile kits can be ordered from the Rights of Way Team. New structures on rights of way require permission from us.
- Trees, hedges and fences alongside paths should not obstruct the path or reduce the width. They should not pose a safety risk to path users.
- Obstructions and encroachment – paths should not be obstructed or encroached in any way. This includes anything that will prevent path users accessing the path or pose a risk to them.
- Ploughing and cropping - paths across arable fields should be available and visible at all times. For example, by marking them out with a tractor. Crops should be cleared to at least 1 meter for a footpath, or 2 meters for a bridleway. Headlands paths should be at least 1.5 meters for a footpath or 3 meters for bridleways.
- Animals known to be dangerous should not be kept on land where a right of way crosses. Bulls over 10 months old should not be kept on land where a right of way crosses. With the exception of beef bulls, but they must be accompanied by cows or heifers.
- Misleading or intimidating signs that deter path users must not be on or next to a public right of way. Please contact us for guidance of appropriate wording.
