Temporary exemption from public access rights
We can temporarily exempt specific areas of land and inland water from public access rights for a defined purpose and period under Section 11 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. These exemptions are usually needed for events and activities where temporary public access restrictions are required.
Why apply for a Section 11 Order
Event organisers may request a Section 11 Order for reasons such as:
- Controlled entry to events - for ticketed or invitation-only events such as outdoor concerts, village fetes, fireworks displays, Highland games, agricultural shows, and golf tournaments
- Safety and security considerations - for the safety of both participants and spectators at events such as car rallies, mountain biking competitions, and other large-scale outdoor gatherings
- Event setup and take-down - access restrictions may extend beyond the event’s duration to allow for the safe setup and removal of equipment, infrastructure, and other event-related materials
Impact on public rights of way
A Section 11 Order doesn't affect existing rights of way. If a proposal affects a right of way, the Outdoor Access Officer will identify this when reviewing the Section 11 application.
Contact ScotWays if you need maps or records of existing recorded Rights of Way.
Request Section 11 Order
To request a Section 11 exemption Order event organisers should complete this online form:
Request Section 11 exemption order
Current exemption orders
5th August 2026
Pre Grampian Rally test day at Midmar Forest:
- Pre Grampian Rally Test Access Rights Exemption Order (PDF 73KB)
- Pre Grampian Rally Test Access Rights Exemption Order location map (PDF 7.51MB)
6th to 9th August 2026
The Grampian Forest Rally at the Forestry and Land Scotland forests of North Drumtochty, South Drumtochty, Fetteresso, Durris, Coreen Hills: