Frequently Asked Questions
Are all paths Public Rights of Way?
No, but all Public Rights of Way are shown on the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way.
If in doubt please ring 01785 277255.
Do Public Rights of Way cease to exist if they are not used?
No, a Public Right of Way can only be extinguished by a Legal Order or by direction of the Court.
Can I ride a bicycle or a horse on a public footpath?
No, the right of way is on foot only.
Are dogs allowed on public rights of way?
Yes, but it has to be kept on a lead or under close control.
Who is responsible for maintaining Staffordshire's footpaths and bridleways?
Please refer to the Responsibilities||||| page for more information.
What is a 'permissive path'?
A permissive path, sometimes termed a concessionary path, is a route which the landowner permits the public to use, with the intention that it should not become a public right of way.
Permitted paths should be seen as a supplement to the rights of way network, not as a substitute for rights of way, particularly if the definitive route is obstructed.
To ensure that the public does not acquire a right of way, it is advisable for a landowner to erect Notices to that effect. An example of such a Notice is set out below:
"This path is private property and is not a public highway. Members of the public are allowed to use the path on the strict understanding that such use will not in any way constitute or contribute to the dedication of a highway under Section 31 of the Highways Act 1980, and that the landowner reserves the right to close it either temporarily or permanently at any time."
The landowner may wish to close the path at certain times of the year and remains responsible for the maintenance of the path, including its surface.
Public access is also sometimes allowed to land that is subject to a Countryside Stewardship Scheme. Such routes are administered by the Department for Farming and Rural Affairs
Can a bull be kept in a field which is crossed by a path?
It is an offence punishable by a fine to keep a bull in a field or enclosure crossed by a public right of way, unless the bull is under eleven months old, or is not one of the recognised dairy breeds and is accompanied by cows or heifers. Recognised dairy breeds are currently defined as Ayrshire, British Friesian, British Holstein, Dairy Shorthorn, Guernsey, Jersey and Kerry.
How can I report problems I find when I am out on Staffordshire's paths?
Please refer to the Rights of Way Enquiries||||| page for more information.
Where can I get leaflets covering walking and cycling in Staffordshire?
A full list of publications, and information on ordering them is available on the
Publication Order Form page|||||
What are my rights on a footpath or bridleway?
On a public footpath the right of way is on foot only. A dog is considered an usual accompaniment, but must be under close control at all times. Such routes are waymarked with yellow arrows.
On a public bridleway the right of way is on foot, bicycle, or on horseback. Such routes are waymarked with blue arrows.
On a B.O.A.T. (Byway Open to All Traffic) the right of way is on foot, bicycle, on horseback or by motor vehicle. Such routes are waymarked with red arrows.
How are footpaths and bridleways marked in Staffordshire?
Yellow waymarker arrows denote a footpath.
Blue waymarker arrows denote a Public Bridleway.
Red waymarker arrows denote a Byway Open To All Traffic (B.O.A.T.)
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