Cairngorms National Park Event Planners' Guide - Manual / Resource - Page 47
The Scottish
Outdoor Access Code
and Your Event
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC)
does mean that some very small events do not
require permission. Check the requirements of
SOAC carefully (it’s not just about participant
numbers!) and get in touch if you have any
questions. It is good practice to inform
landowners of planned activities, even if your
event falls within the parameters of SOAC great communication is key for superb events.
It is imperative that you are fully aware of the
permissions your event will require, and that you
seek any relevant permissions in good time.
Although The Scottish Outdoor Access Code
does mean that some very small events do
not require permission, the majority of events
do require permission.
Cairngorms National Park Authority
The Cairngorms National Park Authority has many
helpful resources on Outdoor Access Advice which you
can see here.
Lead times are considerable when seeking
permission (check out the table below) and
having clarity at the outset will enable timely
communication with land owners and relevant
organisations.
This link will take you to a useful map of the National
Park, detailing the landowners within the park.
These guidelines: Guidance for Organised Outdoor
Access Events published by the Cairngorms National
Park Authority, are also a valuable resource.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code can
be seen here.
If you are in any doubt about what permission
your event may need, it is essential that you
seek advice at the earliest opportunity.
Get in touch if you need any advice or
guidance here.
Forestry Land Scotland
Forestry Land Scotland are one of the biggest landowners in Scotland and they have
comprehensive direction on seeking permission for events - check out the Forestry
Land Scotland Permits and Permissions Guidance here.
Event type
Small event
Medium event
Large event
Walking/running*
25-50 participants
50-200 participants
200+ participants
Cycling**
25-50 participants
50-100 participants
100+ participants
Equestrian
10-25 participants
25-50 participants
50+ participants
Planning lead time (minimum)
3-6 months
6-12 months
1-2 years
* includes orienteering, canicross and similar. ** includes triathlon, adventure racing, sled dog racing and similar.
NB. Group outings by club members are not classed as events.
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