West Sussex County Council: 3. Rights and Responsibilities

The key document that promotes and encourages everybody to respect, protect and enjoy our countryside is the Countryside Code. It dates back to the 1950s as the Country Code, with the new version being launched in 2004 as part of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000).

The Code, which applies in England and Wales, makes clear what the responsibilities are for both path users and those who manage the land. Scotland has its own Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC).

The following pages will outline the duties and considerations that need to be given by all parties.

• County Council responsibilities
• Landowners' and managers' rights and responsibilities
• Users' rights and responsibilities