The Publics Rights and Responsibilities
What are the Publics Rights and Responsibilities?
Public's Rights and Responsibilities
Some examples of the many legal rights and responsibilities of the general public are listed below:
Users may:
Pass and re-pass on a Public Right of Way;
Stop to look at the view, take a photograph, sit down to rest and so on;
take a pram, pushchair, wheelchair and other natural accompliments but expect to encounter stiles on footpaths;
take a dog, preferably on a lead, but always under close control;
take a short route around an illegal obstruction;
remove an illegal obstacle sufficiently to get past.
Users may not:
Roam over land at will, deviating from the line of the Right of Way unless it is to pass an obstruction;
Use a vehicle on a byway if it is not registered, taxed and insured, or to drive recklessly, carelessly or without consideration;
Use a Right of Way for any purpose other than as a right of passage;
Set up tables, chairs and picnic equipment;
Cause any unnecessary damage;
Peddle recklessly on bridleways;
Scrump fruit.
Your rights:
Lack of use has no effect on the legal existence of a right of way;
You must leave land to which you have no legal right of access if asked to do so by the owner or his representative;
A Right of Way should be wide enough for two walkers to pass in comfort. A Bridleway should allow two horses to pass each other comfortably. The Definitive Map however, may specify the width of a path in certain circumstances;
Cyclists and horseriders must not use footpaths (except with permission of the landowner);
Cyclists must give way to riders and walkers on bridleways;
When walking or riding in groups, please travel in single file where necessary, (for example through crops), and do not spread out beyond the width of the path.
Please Remember
The countryside is the home and workplace of many people. To help you get the maximum enjoyment out of walking in Milton Keynes and to ensure walkers continue to be welcomed in the countryside, we advise the following:
Be prepared. When out walking wear stout footwear and warm, waterproof clothing.
Be responsible. Although you are following public rights of way, these do cross private land. Please keep to the path, shut gates behind you and keep dogs on leads where farm animals are present in fields. Please take your litter home. Cars must not be parked where they may cause obstruction to local residents or access to a field.
Be careful. Short sections of some published walks and rides follow narrow country lanes or cross main roads. Take special care on bends and walk to face on-coming traffic.
Be informed. Plan your walk ensuring you have an appropriate map or guide book.
Respect the countryside, wildlife and people who live in the countryside and ensure your activities do not cause damage or undue disturbance.
If you come across problems on any right of way, please help by reporting them on our Rights of Way Report Form.
The Countryside Code
