Path closures
Local authorities have powers to temporary close paths and land from access rights for a period of up to six days under section 11 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. These closures are called Exemption Orders.
Exemption Orders
These are usually given when an event is being run that poses a risk to the public, for example, a car rally in a forest.
Exemption notices (map showing closure and legal document) will be erected, usually one or two weeks before the event, at places where we know that people may enter that land to enjoy their responsible access rights.
Notices will also be displayed at our Headquarters and nearby offices.
Sometimes paths may be closed for longer periods for health and safety reasons, for example, when tree felling is taking place or shut due to forestry operations.