Access rights and responsibilities
Find out about access rights and responsibilities for countryside users or land managers.
Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 provides a right of responsible access to most areas of land and inland water in Scotland. It sets a duty for landowners to manage land in such a way as to respect those rights.
With the exception of motorised wheelchairs and mobility scooters, the right of responsible access does not apply to motor vehicles.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides a reference point for land managers and countryside users on what should be considered responsible access.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code is based on three principles:
- Respect the interests of others
- Care for the environment
- Take responsibility for your own actions
Access rights only cover non-motorised activities and must be used responsibly. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code explains what counts as responsible access for both countryside users and land managers.
Visit the Scottish Outdoor Access Code website to view the code in full and for more detailed guidance on activities.
Exclusions from access rights
Areas excluded from access rights include:
- buildings
- gardens
- farmyards
- storage yards
- construction sites
- school grounds
- places which charge for entry
- sports fields while they are in use
- most land where crops are growing
Activities excluded from access rights include:
- hunting
- shooting
- fishing
- activities using motor vehicles, including motorhomes, campervans and vehicles with rooftop tents
Responsible outdoor access
The Ranger Service can advise countryside users, communities and land managers about their access rights and responsibilities. View printable posters and leaflets for use by community groups and land managers promoting responsible countryside access.
For more guidance or advice please contact the Ranger Service by email ranger.service@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or phone 01467 534333.