Rights of way - Dorset Council

Ironman event - service disruption

Due to the IRONMAN 70.3 event on Sunday 20 September, Weymouth Household Recycling Centre will be closed all day and Dorchester Household Recycling Centre will be closed from 9am to 2pm. Please use alternative sites or visit another day.

Warning Online forms will be unavailable from 14 September to 22 September 2026 whilst we make essential improvements to our reporting systems. You can still report a highways emergency to us by telephone.

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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