More Information for Farmers and Land Managers

Exmoor National Park Authority processes applications for new gates on public rights of way within the National Park boundary on behalf of the 2 Highway Authorities (Somerset and Devon County Councils).

You must have permission to erect a new gate across a public footpath or bridleway on your land.  If you don’t, it means the gate is unauthorised and classed as an obstruction to the right of way.

Gates can be authorised where they are required to control livestock, for forestry purposes or for breeding or keeping horses.

If you wish to install a gate across a public footpath or bridleway for reasons other than the above, then please contact us for an informal discussion.

New stiles will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

How To Apply

You should always apply for authorisation before putting in a new gate on a public footpath or bridleway. If you don’t, it could result in enforcement action being taken to remove the structure. If authorised, new gates must not be locked at any time.  Currently, legislation does not allow us to authorise gates on restricted byways or byways open to all traffic.

The landowner or occupier can apply although they must get consent from everyone who would be affected by the proposal.  The fee must be paid in advance by cheque / BACS payment.  There is a charge of £50 for one location, and an extra £10 for additional locations in the same locality.

It may be helpful to discuss your new gate with your Area Ranger before applying. An application form is available by emailing access@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk – we plan to have this form available online soon. Where other people are affected, please get them to fill in the consent form and attach this to your application.

Your application will be investigated and it may be considered that a local consultation is required.  Applications are usually determined in 4 to 6 weeks.

If your application is approved, we will send you a letter and certificate of authorisation which may contain conditions. Once installed, we will inspect the gate to ensure it conforms to your application.

Where possible, we encourage landowners to seek the most accessible type of structure to reduce inconvenience to members of the public.