The Green Lane Association Drivers and Riders Code of Conduct
We expect all of our members to follow our Code of Conduct. It is also a very sensible and logical guide for other people that drive unsurfaced roads.
Be legal: use only public vehicular roads with known vehicular rights
- Know that not all green roads have vehicular rights.
- Ask locally, or check with your local authority if the route, or its status is not obvious on the ground.
- Observe lawful closure signage.
- Report any unlawful obstructions to the highway authority.
- Keep to the defined track – beyond the road there is no public right to drive on common land, moorland, sand dunes, or beaches.
- Ensure your vehicle and yourself are fully road-legal, green roads are subject to the same laws as tarmac roads.
Be wise: pay attention to the Four Ws
- Weather – Do not travel on unsealed roads when they risk surface impact beyond a point of natural recovery when the weather improves.
- Weight – Do not use roads which may be damaged by the wheel pressure applied by your vehicle.
- Width – Do not use roads that are too narrow for your vehicle. Avoid damage to trees, hedgerows and boundaries.
- Winches – The use of winches on public roads is inappropriate and should not be required.
Be eco: respect the countryside and observe the Countryside Code
- Close all gates unless instructed otherwise.
- Guard against all risks of fire.
- Take your litter home and that left by others if you can
– plastic bags can suffocate livestock if swallowed. - Be aware that wildlife faces many threats and many species are in serious decline. Green roads are valuable habitats so avoid driving on the margins.
- Take special care in spring and early summer when breeding, migration and flowering are at their height.
Be good: an ambassador for motorists
- Make responsible motoring a form of quiet enjoyment of the countryside.
- Avoid disturbing the tranquillity of National Parks and peaceful areas of the countryside.
- Make as little noise as possible and aim to leave no trace.
- Expect to meet walkers, cyclists and horses being led, ridden, or pulling carts. They have as much right to be there as you do and they should be respected, as you would wish to be respected by them.
