Know the Access Code

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The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 expects land managers to manage their land responsibly to allow for access, but the public exercising their access rights must also behave in a responsible manner.

The Code is based on three key principles and these apply equally to the public and land managers.

• Respect the interests of other people

Acting with courtesy, consideration and awareness is very important. If you are exercising access rights, make sure that you respect the privacy, safety and livelihoods of those living or working in the outdoors, and the needs of other people enjoying the outdoors. If you are a land manager, respect people’s use of the outdoors and their need for a safe and enjoyable visit.

• Care for the environment

If you are exercising access rights, look after the places you visit and enjoy, and leave the land as you find it. If you are a land manager, help maintain the natural and cultural features which make the outdoors attractive to visit and enjoy.

• Take responsibility for your actions

If you are exercising access rights, remember the outdoors cannot be made risk free and act with care at all times for your own safety and that of others. If you are a land manager, act with care at all times for people's safety.

You can get more information about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at www.outdooraccess-scotland.com. Here, you will find a quick guide to the Code which provides a summary of responsible behaviour and explains how people can exercise their access rights and how land managers can manage their land and water responsibly in relation to access rights.

The link also allows you to download a full copy of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The code provides a practical guide to help people what is best to do in everyday situations including dog walking, cycling, horse riding, fields, farmyards, fishing, forests, golf courses, sports events and wild camping.

Know the Code before you go.