By The Right of Public Access are everyone given all the freedom to move around in the nature of Sweden. The Right of Public Access regulates what you can do at virtually all activities in nature. These are the rules.
The Right of Public Access is based on tradition and practices that in recent years, been written into the law. As people increasingly moved to the cities in the 1940s, it was considered important to establish the applicable rules for how the public would have access to nature.
The establishment of the Right of Public Access was made possible by a leisure inquiry appointed in 1937. What was concluded?
Rise a tent
It is possible to camp everywhere in nature as long as it does not disturb the landowner. Farmland and other sensitive vegetation should be avoided. If you rise several tents you need the ask the landowner. At least one day, you can camp on the same site, but there is no rule that states how long. Until the 1950s, it was only allowed to camp overnight.
Respect private property
Fences do not need to be set up around a plot to show that it is private. For private plot counts what is adjacent to a residential building. There you will not have the right to pass.
Make a bonfire in the wild
You may light a fire in the countryside when there is no fire ban in the area. It must be no risk of the spread and fire may not occur on rocks, as they may crack. Nature reserves have special rules for bonfires.
Littering
Littering is not permitted. Bring the garbage when you leave the place. No exceptions.
Accomplish physical needs
Physical needs are done in an excavated pit. Toilet paper should be burnt or buried to not blow away.
Close the gates
You have the right to pass through meadows where cattle graze. Always close the gate behind you so that the cattle can’t escape. Someone’s private yard is not considered to be a pasture with gate.
Take care of nature
Walk, run, bike, ride and ski can be done everywhere in nature as long as it does not take place on a plantation that could be damaged.
What are you allowed to pick the wild?
You are free to pick wild berries, flowers, and mushrooms. Also fallen branches and dry twigs on the ground. Remember that some plants are protected and may not be picked. From growing trees, you can’t take twigs, branches, bark and so on. You must not drag bushes up from the soil or fell trees.
National Parks
In these areas, special rules apply. It is up to the visitor to follow those who may differ from other areas in nature.
Dogs in the wild
Dogs are allowed in nature. During the period 1 March to 20 August, it is best to keep the dog on a leash. That’s because the wildlife is especially sensitive during this period.
Be kind to other people and animals in the wild
Since Right of Public Access are for everyone, it is important that all show the same respect. Be careful not to scare people and animals with your activities.
Boat and swimming
You can swim almost everywhere. The exception is when someone’s private property or access not allowed to protect the bird life. You may moor your boat at a jetty outside someone’s plot and even swim there, but it must not interfere with or prevent the owner any access.
Motor vehicles in nature
Motor vehicles are not included in the Right of Public Access. Off-road driving is prohibited. However, it is usually allowed to drive a snowmobile where the ground is covered with snow. Parking a vehicle should be directly on the side of the road in.
