Definitive map and associated registers
Click the sections below to find out more about the map and how to request changes.
What is a definitive map and statement?
It is a legal record of the public rights of way and shows the routes of each public footpath, bridleway, restricted byway and byway open to all traffic in the county.
Section 31(6) of the Highways Act 1980 enables a landowner to deposit with the highway authority a map and statement showing the ways (if any) that he/she admits are dedicated as highways. The deposition will provide a degree of protection against claims for additional rights of way based on deemed dedication. It can be kept in force by the landowner submitting Declarations and Statements of Truth at intervals of no greater than 20 years. As from 1st October 2013 a new application form for S31(6) of the Highways Act 1980 has been combined with a statement under S15(A) of the Commons Act 2006.
A fee for both dispositions is payable as follows:
Highways Act 1980 s31(6) depositions and renewals
- £200 for landholdings up to 2 hectares in one locality
- £500 for landholdings over 2 hectares or in multiple locations
Commons Act 2006 s15A(1) landowner statements
- £400 per landholding up to 10 land parcels
- £100 for each additional 10 parcels up to a maximum of £700
Download the application form and guidance notes here
On acceptance of the application the information for both types of deposition is added to the on-line register for public inspection and for Commons Act statements only notices are put up on site.