Many landowners, including farmers and forestry organisations, have installed motion-activated trail cameras along green lanes and private land to monitor illegal activity. These cameras are:
πΈ Motion-activated β They capture images or videos when movement is detected.
π Infrared-enabled β They work day and night, making it impossible to sneak through unseen.
π‘ Connected to law enforcement β Many landowners share footage directly with councils and police forces.
So if you go off-piste, thereβs a good chance your registration plate, vehicle type, and even your face will be recorded β and used as evidence.
Section 34: Illegal Off-Roading
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 34, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle on:
π« Footpaths
π« Bridleways
π« Restricted byways
π« Any land without landowner permission
If caught:
β οΈ You could face a fine up to Β£1000.
β οΈ Your vehicle could be seized if you’re a repeat offender.
β οΈ It tarnishes the reputation of responsible green laners.
Section 59: Anti-Social Driving & Vehicle Seizure
If your off-piste activity causes damage, danger, or nuisance, you might also be hit with a Section 59 Notice under the Police Reform Act 2002.
π What does this mean?
β If caught, police can issue a warning on the first offence.
β If you reoffend in the next 12 months, your vehicle can be seized and crushed.
β You could be banned from certain areas and face further fines.
Once you get a Section 59 with 2 strikes, your vehicle can be taken on the spot.
SSSI Areas: The Worst Place to Get Caught
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a protected area due to its environmental significance. If youβre caught driving off-piste in an SSSI, the penalties are severe:
πΏ Unlimited fines under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
πΏ You may be required to pay for damage repairs to the environment.
πΏ Police and Natural England can take enforcement action, including vehicle seizure.
Many SSSIs have trail cameras, and illegal activity is closely monitored.
Stay Legal & Use Smart Trail!
The easiest way to avoid these legal nightmares? Stick to legal green lanes and use Smart Trail, the ultimate tool for finding legal off-road routes.
β
Verified green lanes β No more guessing!
β
TRO alerts β Avoid accidentally using restricted lanes.
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Community reports β Stay up to date on lane conditions and legal changes.
At All Terrain UK, weβre committed to responsible and sustainable green laning. If you love off-roading and want to do it the right way, join us today and get access to Smart Trail!
π Join now at AllTerrainUK.com
Stay legal, stay responsible, and keep green laning alive! ππΏ
