The Definitive Map and Statement is the legal record of Public Rights of Way. Depending on the recorded status of the way, these paths are where the public has the right to walk, ride horses and bicycles and use non-motorised and motorised vehicles.
A route shown on the Definitive Map and Statement is conclusive evidence of a Public Right of Way.
The Definitive Map is accompanied by a Definitive Statement, a conclusive written description of Public Rights of Way. It may give details of the width and limitations attached to the public paths.
Where to find the Definitive Map and Statement
The Definitive Map can be inspected by prior appointment, together with the accompanying Statement, at County Hall, Chichester. Electronic copies of the Definitive Map and Statement are available to purchase for an administrative fee of £17 per map extract (including the relevant statement extract) effective from April 2026. Contact Legal Services using the email address below.
Copyright legislation prohibits photocopying of the Map. We can, however, under licence from the Ordnance Survey, provide replacement copies of the map to parish, district or borough councils and extracts to individuals on request. As noted above, there is a charge to individuals for this service.
It may also be helpful to use the Public Rights of Way iMap. Although this online service is not the Definitive Map, it can be a helpful guide to find out more about a path's status or route.
Keeping the Definitive Map up to date
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, anyone can apply to change the Definitive Map and Statement by submitting an application for a Definitive Map Modification Order (DMMO).
You can also check the status of formally accepted DMMO applications as follows:
- Landowner statement/deposits and DMMO register (searchable by postcode, parish or type of application)
- DMMO registers by application status