The Countryside Code
RESPECT PROTECT ENJOY
When in the countryside please:
- Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs
- Leave gates and property as you find them
- Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
- Keep dogs under close control
- Consider other people
.. and when on Dartmoor please:
- know your rights of access to different kinds of open country, including where you can horse ride, backpack, climb and cycle
- remember you must control your dog at all times so that it does not disturb or scare farm animals or wildlife.
You should keep your dog on a short lead on areas of open country and common land between 1 March and 31 July to avoid worrying lambs and ewes, and disturbing nesting birds.
Please also keep your dog on a lead during the lambing season on enclosed farmland (1 December to 30 June) - be aware that Dartmoor’s weather can change rapidly. When venturing into open country ensure you are correctly clothed and equipped. Always carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
Be prepared to change your plans if conditions are adverse - be careful not to disturb ruins and historic sites
- prevent uncontrolled moorland fires. Moorland vegetation can be dry at any time of the year, so do not light fires and be careful when siting camping stoves or barbeques
- wild animals, ponies and livestock can behave unpredictably if you get too close, especially if they’re with their young - so give them plenty of space.
