Outdoor Etiquette

Our unique and diverse nature is a fantastic resource, and in Norway, we are fortunate to have common rights that allow us all to enjoy and benefit from this beautiful nature. At the same time, we also have a shared responsibility to ensure that we take care of our nature and its wildlife and plant life. Here is some useful information to keep in mind before heading out on your trip.

The Right of Public Access (Allemannsretten):

The Right of Public Access is part of the Outdoor Recreation Act and forms the basis for outdoor activities in Norway. It means that we all have the same right to free use of nature, including walking and skiing in uncultivated land, as well as the right to camp, swim, rest, and harvest. However, the Right of Public Access also comes with responsibilities. When exercising the Right of Public Access, you have a duty to act considerately and responsibly. Here are some important guidelines:

• The Right of Public Access primarily applies to uncultivated land. This means that private gardens, residential plots, industrial areas, cultivated land, fields, and meadows are not covered by the Right of Public Access.
• Remember the 150-meter rule, which means that camping should be done at least 150 meters away from houses and cabins.
• The Right of Public Access does not apply to motorized vehicles.
• Show consideration for other people, wildlife, and plant life. This includes not leaving any litter, staying on designated paths, being careful with fire use, following leash regulations for dogs, and remembering that certain types of berries, flowers, and mushrooms are protected.
• There is a general leash requirement for dogs from April 1st to August 20th. In Suldal, there is an extended leash requirement in grazing and protected areas.
• There is a general ban on open fires from April 15th to September 15th.

Read more about the Right of Public Access here.

Protected Areas

In Suldal, a quarter of our area is protected nature. Several of these protected areas have their own regulations, which can often be stricter than in other places. Visit svr.no for more information.

Mountain Safety Rules

The Mountain Safety Rules were introduced for the first time in 1950, following a series of accidents and deaths during that year's Easter holidays. At that time, they were called the "Mountain Rules." After another Easter with many accidents, the Norwegian Trekking Association and the Red Cross introduced the campaign "Welcome to the mountains, but take responsibility yourself" in 1967. Since then, the Mountain Safety Rules have been part of Norwegian cultural heritage. These rules are regularly updated to ensure they adapt to changing hiking habits, equipment, and knowledge about outdoor use.

Read the Mountain Safety Rules on ut.no here.

General Fishing Regulations

Norway offers great opportunities for fishing in both fresh and saltwater. We have a total of 332 fish species in Norwegian waters. There are various regulations that apply to fishing, mainly dividing between fishing rights for saltwater and for rivers and freshwater lakes. For rivers with salmon, trout, and char, there are specific regulations.

• Fishing in Saltwater: Fishing in saltwater is generally considered a right of public access. However, you should not fish closer than 100 meters to the borders of rivers, and there are various protected zones. Some fish species are also protected, there are restrictions on the use of gear, and you should report lost fishing gear. Feel free to download the "Fritidsfiskeappen" (Leisure Fishing App).
• Fishing in Freshwater: For fishing in freshwater, you need to purchase a fishing license from the landowner. Several of these licenses are available on inatur.no. Children under 16 years old can fish without a fishing license but must have valid identification. In freshwater, you should also keep a distance of 100 meters from rivers and lakes. Remember that there may be various local restrictions, and there are often specific rules for protected areas.
• For fishing salmon, trout, and char: To fish for salmon, trout, and char, you need to purchase a fishing license from the landowner and pay the annual national fishing fee. Each watercourse has its own fishing regulations. If you are new to a river, it's advisable to have a local fishing guide with you the first time.

Hunting Regulations

Hunting has a long tradition in Norway and is part of our natural and cultural history. Hunting helps regulate wildlife populations while ensuring sustainability and humane practices. This means that hunting should be conducted in a way that does not reduce populations for the future and that animals do not suffer unnecessarily.

Hunting is mainly divided into big game hunting and small game hunting, with different rules and guidelines that apply. You can find an overview of this on the Norwegian Environment Agency's website.

Avalanche and Ice Safety

Our mountains offer fantastic opportunities for hiking, even during winter. However, on such trips, you must be aware of avalanche risks and changing weather conditions. On trips outside prepared trails, especially in steep terrain, each individual must take responsibility to avoid putting themselves or others in danger. If you are new to the area or have little experience with such trips, it is always recommended to use a local certified guide. Feel free to contact us, and we can put you in touch with relevant operators.

During winter, you should also be cautious of uncertain ice conditions. In Suldal, several lakes are regulated, which increases the risk of unstable ice. Make sure the ice is safe before venturing onto it, stay away from unsafe areas (river inlets, areas with strong currents, etc.), and follow guidelines for responsible travel on ice.

On varsom.no, you can get the latest information on natural hazards in the area you plan to visit, as well as access to avalanche and ice safety resources.

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