Working closely with landowners and volunteers, four rights of way officers investigate reports received from members of the public and user groups. A field team of six carries out practical work across the county.

Signposting and waymarking

Dorset County Council has a duty to signpost public rights of way where they leave a metalled road. Rights of way are also signposted or waymarked particularly where the route is not obvious.

Stiles and gates

It it the landowner's responsbility to maintain stiles or gates on public rights of way on their land. Dorset County Council usually contributes a minimum of 25% of costs.

Obstruction

It is an offence to intentionally obstruct a public right of way.

Ploughing and cropping

Crossfield paths may be ploughed or cropped as long as the path is reinstated within 14 days. Headland paths should not be ploughed or cropped.

Overgrown vegetation

Landowners are responsible for cutting back hedges, trees or shrubs overhanging a public right of way. Surface vegetation on rights of way i.e. undergrowth such as nettles and brambles, is the responsibility of Dorset County Council.

Bulls

A bull can only be kept in a field crossed by a right of way if it is under 10 months old OR it is accompanied by cows or heifers.

Bridges

Dorset County Council is responsible for the maintenance and repair of foot and bridle bridges.

Surface

Dorset County Council is responsible for the maintenance of the surface of rights of way according to the status of the path e.g. a footpath will be maintained up to footpath standard even if it carries private vehicular rights.

Report a problem

If you find a problem on a right of way please report it using our Public rights of way - report a problem (opens in a new window) . The report will be prioritised and appropriate action will be taken.

• Rights of Way Team
  Name: Rights of Way Team
  Email: dorsetdirect@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 224463
  Full details for Rights of Way Team