Right of public access
In Sweden, we have a fantastic customary law, the “Allemansrätten”, which, among other things means that you are allowed to spend a few nights out in nature without asking the landowner for permission. You can get there on foot, cycle, ride, ski and temporarily stay in nature if you don’t risk damaging crops, afforestation’s, or other sensitive land. But you must respect domestic peace and may not pass over, or stay on private property. “Plot” – which is not always fenced – is the area closest to the dwelling house where the residents have the right to be left alone. If the garden or plot is not shut off from people’s view, you must keep a good distance so that you do not disturb. Your stay in nature must not mean that you hinder the landowner in his activities.
The right of public access is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to roam freely in nature, but there are also obligations. For example:
• To make a camp for the night at a suitable spot where it does not disturb either humans or animals.
• Not to light a fire if a fire restriction is in place; if fire is permitted, to choose a place near the water with gravel or sand base, and never directly on rocks, boulders or directly on a beach.
• Not to use loudspeakers, musical equipment or similar.
• Not to scare or injure domestic or wild animals.
• Not to cut wood or break branches or twigs from living trees.
• Not to pick wild plants.
• Not to leave litter in the countryside.
• To have dogs on lead or under close control as if they were on lead; this is especially important because the tour takes place in an area with wildlife.
The customer may be ordered to pay damages, fines or face imprisonment if a fire spreads, which can occur both under and above ground, if fire is made during a fire ban or if litter is left on the ground. The customer can be liable for damages for unlawful harm to trees, bushes and other plants.