Green laning is an incredible way to explore the countryside—but it’s also something that comes with legal responsibilities. As with any activity involving public rights of way, knowing the rules isn’t optional—it’s essential.
At All Terrain UK, we’re big believers in protecting access for everyone by driving legally, respecting the land, and educating our community.
So if you’ve ever asked, “Where can I legally drive?”, “What’s a TRO?”, or “Am I allowed on this track?”—you’re in the right place.
What Is Legal Green Laning?
To stay within the law, you must only drive on public rights of way that legally allow motor vehicles. These are usually either:
✅ Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs)
These are legally classified routes where you’re allowed to drive your 4×4, motorbike, or other vehicle. They’re shown on Ordnance Survey maps and council definitive maps.
✅ Unclassified County Roads (UCRs)
These may look like minor roads on maps, but many are unsurfaced tracks. They’re usually legal to drive—but not always, so always double-check using up-to-date data.
🛑 Driving on a route that doesn’t legally allow vehicles is a criminal offence—and it damages the reputation of the whole laning community.
Know Before You Go: TROs, Closures & Restrictions
Some legal lanes may have seasonal restrictions or be closed by a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). These could be:
- Temporary (e.g. after flood damage)
- Permanent (due to erosion or safety)
- Seasonal (common in winter months)
You must not drive on a lane under an active TRO—even if it’s a BOAT.
How to Check if a Lane is Legal
🧭 Use SmartTrail
All Terrain UK members get access to SmartTrail—our powerful route-planning tool that:
- Shows which lanes are legal to drive
- Flags up TROs, seasonal closures, and sensitive areas
- Lets you explore lanes based on difficulty and surface type
🗺️ Use OS Maps (But Don’t Rely on Them Alone)
Ordnance Survey maps show BOATs and UCRs—but they don’t always reflect current access restrictions. Always cross-reference with SmartTrail or your local authority.
📚 Contact Local Authorities
If in doubt, check the council’s Definitive Map or call their Rights of Way team. You can also search online for active TROs or lane diversions.
What’s Illegal?
It’s illegal to:
- Drive on footpaths, bridleways, or restricted byways
- Drive on BOATs/UCRs that are currently closed under a TRO
- Damage or obstruct a right of way
- Tear up ground in a way that causes erosion or trail degradation
- Drive through open fields or moorland not designated for vehicles
Doing any of the above can lead to fines, prosecution, and permanent lane closures. Worse still, it damages the reputation of responsible green laners—and puts future access at risk.
Green Laning Law and All Terrain UK
We’re committed to doing it right. Here’s how we help:
- Providing educational resources like our Green Laning Guide
- Giving members access to SmartTrail, with lane info
- Promoting collaboration with local authorities, landowners, and other user groups
- Leading by example with respectful driving and code of conduct enforcement
✅ When you join All Terrain UK, you’re not just joining a club—you’re joining a movement to keep green laning alive and legal for generations to come.
Your Responsibilities as a Green Laner
When you’re behind the wheel, you’re representing all of us not just ATUK. Here’s what we ask of every driver:
- Research your route before you go
- Stick to legal byways only
- Follow signage—even if the lane was open last week, closures can happen fast
- Be polite and considerate to other trail users
- Avoid wet or damaged trails where your vehicle might cause harm
- Report lane issues to local councils or trail groups
Want to Green Lane the Right Way?
Join the All Terrain UK community and get access to:
- ✅ SmartTrail – the UK’s only legal lane mapping tool built for green laners
- ✅ Membership benefits – including exclusive events and resources
- ✅ Our Resources Hub – with guides, safety info, and legal FAQs
Final Word
Green laning can be one of the best ways to explore the UK’s hidden countryside—but only when it’s done legally, safely, and respectfully.
Know your rights. Know your responsibilities. And let’s protect access together.
🚙 Stay legal. Stay prepared. Stay proud to be part of the All Terrain UK community.
