Rights of way - Dorset Council

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We are experiencing issues with all of our online forms. We are working quickly to get this fixed, if you have an urgent enquiry please contact us. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Report a problem or track an existing one

Report a problem on a public footpath or bridleway, or check the progress of a problem you've already reported.

Definitive map and statement

The definitive map and statement is the legal record for public rights of way in Dorset

Dorset Local Access Forum

Discover some of the issues that we consider, debate and provide advice on

Become a rights of way volunteer

Town and parish councils within Dorset are encouraged to elect a Rights of Way Liaison Officer.

Rights of Way improvement plan

The Dorset Rights of Way Improvement Plan is Dorset Council's long-term management strategy for public Rights of Way and countryside access.

Public rights of way and new development: a guide for developers

Guidance for developers on managing public rights of way in Dorset, including pre‑application checks, planning and construction requirements, when legal orders are needed, and Dorset Council’s expectations.

Public rights of way maintenance

There are almost 3,000 miles of public rights of way in Dorset.

Rights of way map - Where to walk, ride or cycle

View a map showing rights of way to find out where to walk, ride or cycle in Dorset

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