Apply for the temporary closure of a Public Right of Way
Landowners and managers can apply to Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) to temporary close or divert a public right of way – you can also apply for permission to add a new gate on a footpath or bridleway
Exmoor National Park Authority processes applications for temporary closures on public rights of way within the National Park boundary on behalf of the 2 Highway Authorities (Somerset and Devon County Councils).
It is sometimes necessary to close a public right of way temporarily for development, forestry operations or maintenance of utilities. Wherever possible an alternative route should be provided.
The length of temporary closure varies from 5 days to a maximum of 6 months.
Closure notices are advertised in newspapers and on our website. Copies of the notice and a map are posted on site.
How To Apply
Anyone can apply to temporary close a public right of way although it is usually utility companies and developers.
It may be helpful to discuss this with your Area Ranger before applying. An application form is available by emailing access@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk – we plan to have this form available online soon.
Please ensure your application reaches us at least 2 weeks in advance for 5 day/21 day closures and 3 months in advance for 6 month closures.
In line with our partner Highway Authorities, from 1st April 2023 we are introducing charges for processing temporary closure applications to cover administrative and advertisement costs. The fee must be paid in advance by cheque / BACS payment. Charges are as follows and are inclusive of VAT:
| 5 day/21 day emergency closure | £450 |
| 6 month temporary traffic restriction order (TTRO) | £1,000 |
| Late TTRO application fee | £200 (in addition to the above) |
| TTRO Extension (sent to Secretary of State) | £500 |
We will process your application and may contact you if we need further information. We will tell you the date the temporary closure becomes active.