FAQs

Dogs are allowed on public rights of way, but must be kept under close control. Intimidating dogs should be reported to us and the police. Problems with dog fouling should be reported to your district or borough council.

It is normal to meet livestock when out in the countryside using the public rights of way network.  Adult beef bulls may be kept in fields crossed by public rights of way, as long as they are with cows or heifers. Dairy bulls (even if accompanied by cows or heifers) should never be kept on land crossed by a public right of way. Where you experience a problem, please let us know. Cattle attacks are relatively rare. Follow these simple principles to reduce the risk: 1) Always walk around cows with calves. Walking between them can be seen as a threat. 2) If they approach, walk slowly and if you have a dog ensure it is at heel. 3)If you feel threatened, let go of your dog. It can run faster than cattle and escape. 4) If in doubt, do not enter the field.

Farmers are entitled to plough public rights of way if it is not reasonably convenient to avoid them. This only applies to cross-field footpaths and bridleways. The landowner is responsible for ensuring that a hedge does not overhang and obstruct a public right of way. If a right of way is obstructed by a fallen tree or large branch, responsibility for its removal lies with the tree owner. We are responsible for ensuring that vegetation on the surface of a right of way is kept under control and does not make the route difficult to use. Overgrowth of plants and shrubs alongside the path is the responsibility of the landowner. We, as the highway authority, are responsible for the surface of all public rights of way - the landowner's interest only extends to the sub soil. If you need to dig up the surface to lay pipes or drains, for example, you should contact us first.

It is the landowner's duty to ensure that stiles and gates are in good repair. Anyone wanting to install additional gates or stiles on footpaths or bridleways must apply to us in writing. A padlocked gate on a public right of way constitutes an obstruction; we have the right to remove it without consultation if the issue cannot be resolved. Responsibility for bridges and culverts is shared between us and the landowner, and we are responsible for most footbridges. The rail authority is responsible for most footbridges over railway lines, while British Waterways is responsible for all bridges over the canal network. All public rights of way should be signposted where they leave a road. We have an on-going programme of replacing missing and broken signposts. If you notice any, please let us know.