Restricting access to land for an event

Access exemption orders

You may need an exemption order if your event affects public access to land.

We can temporarily exempt land from access rights for reasons such as:

  • charging admission to an event
  • public safety
  • security

This applies to events like:

  • Highland games
  • sports events
  • fetes or festivals

Exemption orders do not apply to public rights of way.

When an exemption is not needed

You may not need an exemption order if:

  • the event does not block a known access route
  • you can manage access with signs or diversions
  • you can charge for parking or programmes instead of entry

Events like open-air weddings or funerals usually do not need an exemption. Most people respect these without formal restrictions.

Page last modified: 20 August 2025