Byelaw
A byelaw is a local rule, made by an authority or land manager, that applies to a particular place. Byelaws can limit camping, fires, vehicles and access in an area. The rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and a byelaw can restrict camping even where wider access rights exist.
Where you'll see it
Byelaws are mentioned on park, reserve and council websites, in campsite terms, and on notices at car parks and access points. A byelaw applies only to its own area, so a rule in one place says nothing about another.
What to check
- Whether the area you plan to visit has byelaws about camping, fires or vehicles. Check the authority's current pages and notices.
- The notices at the car park or access point, which often show local rules.
- The landowner's or land manager's permission, which you should get before you travel.
- The official guidance for the nation you are in, starting with wild camping in the UK: the rules explained.
- Whether a campsite with a clear booking would avoid the question altogether.
Related terms
- Wild camping: an activity that local byelaws may restrict.
- Open access land: land where byelaws can still apply.
- Countryside Code: the general advice for visitors.
Read more: Wild camping in the UK: the rules explained and how we check the rules.