Land Reform Act/Scottish Outdoor Access Code

LAND REFORM (SCOTLAND) ACT 2003

Statutory Public Access Rights

Part 1 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 establishes statutory public access rights to land (including inland waters and foreshore) for recreational and other purposes, this right to be exercised responsibly. This will apply to most of the countryside in Scotland.

Section 6 of the Act deals with exemptions from the access rights which have been made in the interests of privacy and certain use requirements.

Local authorities are responsible for:

• setting up one or more Local Access Forums
• drawing up a Core Paths Plan
• upholding public access rights
• publicising with SNH (Scottish Natural Heritage) the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Download a copy of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

Scottish Outdoor Access Code (S.O.A.C)

Land uses in Moray's countryside include farming, forestry, field sports and conservation providing a rich and fascinating mix of natural and cultural landscapes to explore. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code, established under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act explains the responsibilities of the public and of land managers in enabling them to benefit from access without harming the enjoyment of those who live and work on the land.

The latest information is available at Outdoor Access Scotland  and  Scottish Natural Heritage 

View a full copy of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (S.O.A.C) 

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