Landowner statements and deposits

A guide for landowners on how to make applications under Section 31(6) of the Highways Act 1980 and Section 15A(1) of the Commons Act 2006.

1 Overview

Landowners may at any time make an application under the Highways Act 1980 identifying paths over their land they admit to having been dedicated as highways (if any). This is referred to as a Section 31(6) deposit.

The lodging of a deposit under Section 31(6) Highways Act 1980 may protect land from claims made by members of the public to add any additional public path to the Definitive Map and Statement, which are based on evidence of public use.

Landowners can also protect their land from its registration as a town or village green, following long term recreational use, by submitting an application under the Commons Act 2006.

Further information on the above can be found on the GOV.UK website.

2 Apply

The CA16 form and guidance notes to deposit a statement and map is provided below. It is recommended that you read the guidance provided by DEFRA before completing your application.

3 View applications deposited with the County Council

Register of deposits post-October 2013

Register of deposits pre-October 2013

Should you wish to obtain a copy of a deposit listed contact the Legal Services team.

4 Contact details

Last updated:
1 October 2024
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