Allemansrätten in Sweden - do's & don'ts

The right for everyone - the freedom to roam - in Sweden

Allmännsrätt is a term used in Sweden to refer to the principle of 'everyman's right'. This right gives people the right to freely walk, cycle, camp and pick berries and mushrooms in nature, regardless of who the landowner is. Here is a summary of the main points of the Swedish right of public access:

1. Freedom of access : In Sweden, people have the right to roam freely in nature, as long as they do not cause damage to the environment or the property of others.

2. Right to camp : Under allemansrätt, people are allowed to camp freely in nature, provided they do so at a reasonable distance from homes and do not stay in the same place for a long time.

3. Right to pick : It is permitted to pick wild berries, mushrooms and flowers for personal use. However, commercial picking is prohibited.

4. Making a fire : It is permitted to make a campfire, but only in places where this does not pose a risk of forest fires and provided that the fire is completely extinguished after use.

5. Dogs : Dogs must be kept under control and not cause harm to livestock or game.

6. Waste : Visitors to nature are expected to take back their waste and keep the environment clean.

Freedom of access encourages people to enjoy Sweden's beautiful nature, but it goes hand in hand with responsibility and respect for the environment and others.

Uitleg over het Allemansrätt van Zweden - Vrijheden, beperkingen, verantwoordelijkheid en respect. Ga op reis met Holmstock Travel en ervan die vrijheid.

Allemansrätt Sweden

The beauty of nature and the tranquility it offers is enhanced by the feeling that you can enjoy almost complete freedom. You can move and stay freely almost anywhere. Spending the night outside with a cozy fire also offers the opportunity to prepare your food outside.

This feeling is priceless and very special!

  • a series

    The right to all rights in Sweden is not laid down in one specific text

    ..but rather in a series of laws, rules and customs that together constitute the right of access to nature. It is a combination of official legislation and traditional customs that regulate free access to and use of nature.

  • environmental protection

    The most important legislation

    .. that affects everyone is the environmental protection legislation, which contains rules regarding, among other things , camping, making fire and waste management . In addition, there are various guidelines and recommendations from bodies such as the Swedish Tourist Association and nature conservation organizations that interpret and promote the right to open access.

  • Swedish government

    Specific legal texts relating to the allemansrätt

    If you are looking for specific pieces of legislation or regulations regarding allemansrätt , you should look for the relevant laws regarding nature conservation, environmental protection and land use in Sweden. However, these may only be available in Swedish, as they are official legal documents published by the Swedish government .

Official Swedish sources:

In Sweden there are several agencies and websites that provide valuable information about the right of public access to nature and access to nature. Here are some key resources people can consult for guidance and advice on the allemansrätt:

  1. Naturvårdsverket (Swedish Environmental Protection Agency) : This government agency is responsible for the management and protection of the environment in Sweden. Their website provides extensive information about allemansrätt , including guidelines for responsible behavior in nature.
  2. Visit Sweden : Sweden's official tourism website provides not only travel and accommodation information, but also tips and advice for exploring Swedish nature, including information about allemansrätt and outdoor activities.
  3. Friluftsfrämjandet (The Swedish Society for Nature Conservation) : This organization promotes outdoor activities and nature conservation in Sweden. Their website contains useful information and guidelines for enjoying nature according to allemansrätt.
  4. Länsstyrelsen (County Administrative Boards) : Each Swedish county has a Länsstyrelsen, a government agency responsible for regional affairs, including nature conservation. The websites of these agencies often contain local information and guidelines regarding public health and outdoor activities.
  5. Allemansrätten.se : This website is specifically dedicated to allemansrätt and provides information and advice on how to exercise this right wisely and respectfully.

By consulting these resources, visitors to Sweden can find useful guidance and advice on how to make the most of the country's natural beauty, in accordance with the right of public access .

CO2 reductie in de reiswereld - Reisbureau Holmstock Travel streeft naar een gezonder en beter milieu en draagt bij aan het CO2 initiatief van Stripe.

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Our contribution via Stripe Climate Badge

Naturally, all our trips are designed in such a way that we take into account and treat nature and local cultures and customs with respect. We also make a financial contribution in the sense of a CO2 compensation through the Stripe Climate Badge program .

  • Warnings

    In Sweden, people are expected to respect and observe the right to freedom of access, but there are also sanctions for not adhering to these rules, although they are mainly aimed at preventing damage to the environment and property of others, rather than punishing of individuals.

    Warnings : In the event of violations, individuals may initially receive a warning from authorities such as the police or nature managers. This can serve as an educational measure to make people aware of the rules and the possible consequences of their behavior.

  • Fines

    In more serious cases, fines may be imposed for violations of the right of public access, especially if the behavior leads to significant damage to nature or the property of others. The amount of the fines may vary depending on the severity of the violation .

    Also keep in mind that social control plays a major role in the Scandinavian countries. People do not shy away from addressing you fiercely or even going 'live' with you via social media. You are seen and people experience nature as 'particularly valuable'.

  • Forbidden entry

    In extreme cases, such as repeated or serious violations of the right to freedom of access, individuals may be prohibited from entering certain areas or using certain privileges such as camping rights in nature.

    It is important to note that the emphasis in Sweden is on education , prevention and promoting responsible behavior in nature, rather than punishing individuals. The right of public access is seen as a valuable tradition that contributes to the enjoyment and conservation of Swedish nature, and it is generally respected by both locals and visitors.

Vuur maken in Zweden - Alemannsrätt - Wat is toegestaan en wat is verboden - Gezellig op vakantie in Scandinavië met reisbureau Holmstock Travel

Making a fire - Allemansrätt

Please note the fire ban in summer

Yes, in Sweden there may be a fire ban during certain times of the year, especially during dry and warm periods to minimize the risk of forest fires. These prohibitions may vary depending on local conditions and the assessment of authorities.

  • Make a fire safely

    In Sweden and Finland you will often find so-called fire-pits, usually with a grate chained to it on which you can grill a sausage or rest a pan. Our advice is to only use these types of occasions and not to 'wildly' start a fire somewhere. Especially not without some suitable tools of your own.
    TIP: Keep your (camp)fire small and manageable.
    Making fire in a nature reserve is not allowed!

  • Brandrisk app

    Perhaps the best advice we can give is to always keep a close eye on the media. Television, newspaper, internet and apps. Always seek up-to-date information on forest fire hazard warnings and risks. You are obliged to do this!

    We use this app, among others: brandrisk ute
    This can be found via the Android Play Store.

  • BE CAREFUL:

    Starting a campfire can be a wonderful experience, but it is essential to take safety measures to protect both users and nature. Here are five common campfire mistakes that can be dangerous:

    Making the fire too big :

    Dangers : A fire that is too large can quickly get out of hand and lead to an uncontrolled fire.

    Prevention : Build the fire small and add fuel gradually. Keep the fire manageable and ensure it does not grow higher or wider than necessary.

    Inadequate preparation of the fire pit :

    Dangers : Starting a campfire in an unprepared place can lead to fires that spread through the ground, especially in dry or forested areas.

    Prevention : Create a fire pit by making a circle of stones and clearing the area around it of dry grass, leaves and other flammable materials. If possible, dig a shallow hole to build the fire in.


    WIND AND WATER:

    Pay close attention to the wind . Sparks can spread quickly and far and immediately cause fire in several places.
    If possible, have a supply of fire extinguishing water available or provide a (small) fire extinguisher.

  • BE CAREFUL:

    Use of wrong fuels :

    Dangers : Using wet or green wood can lead to smoke and sparks that can cause a fire. Flammable liquids such as gasoline are extremely dangerous.
    Prevention : Use dry, dead wood and avoid the use of liquid fuels. Use small branches and kindling to start the fire, then add larger pieces of wood.


    Failure to extinguish the fire properly :

    Dangers : A campfire that is not properly extinguished can reignite and cause a forest fire.
    Prevention : Make sure you extinguish the fire completely by pouring water over the ashes, stirring the remains and adding more water until everything is cold to the touch. Make sure that no smoldering residue is left behind.

    Leaving the fire unattended :

    Hazards : An unattended fire can quickly grow out of control due to wind or other conditions, leading to uncontrolled fires.
    Prevention : Never leave a campfire unattended. Make sure there is always someone nearby to keep an eye on the fire and to intervene immediately if necessary.



    By avoiding these mistakes and taking the right precautions, you can enjoy a safe campfire that does not pose any danger to yourself, your companions or nature.

Enjoy everyone's holiday

Finally, there is only one good piece of advice we can give you and that is: Enjoy everyone's holiday.
You have the freedom and it feels so good. With respect for nature and for the animals as well as for other people you will meet along the way. It gives you peace of mind and contributes to a wonderful feeling of peace of mind.

If you travel with HOLMSTOCK TRAVEL , we will automatically take you into nature. In Scandinavia, nature awaits you as soon as you walk out the door.

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