About public rights of way

A permissive path is that which the landowner permits the public to use, with the intention that it should not become a public right of way. The landowner may erect notices to that effect and even close the path once a year. To ensure that the public does not acquire a right of way, as might happen if a notice was removed and not replaced, the owner can take advantage of Section 31 (6) deposit.

Unofficial diversions of Public Rights of Way made by landowners can be regarded as permissive paths, though if the above procedures are not used, the new route may in time become a public right of way.