By the shore
Enjoying nature responsibly is key, especially when visiting beaches, riverbanks, shorelines, and lake shores.
The right of public access applies to both land and water. You can swim, sail, moor your boat, and even spend a night or two on board, almost anywhere. But these areas are important habitats for wildlife.
Keep in mind
- Canoes and kayaks move quietly in shallow, nearshore waters, making it easier to disturb wildlife. Be mindful and avoid getting too close to nesting birds.
- Wildlife protection areas have restricted access in order to protect vulnerable species like seals and birds. Watch for signs with rules.
- You can dock or anchor your boat for a night but keep a respectful distance from homes and the surrounding areas.
- Boating without a toilet? Use a bucket with a tight lid.
Private property
You may go ashore, swim, anchor, or temporarily moor your boat, as long as you respect areas close to residences—this is known as the private protection zone. The private protection zone, is the area closest to someone’s private residence were people have the right to privacy. In hilly or densely vegetated areas, the private zone might be closer to the house, while in open, flat areas, it could be larger.
When to ask for permission
If you intend to stay anchored or moored near someone else's shore for an extended period, ask the landowner for permission. For houseboats, even on your own property, you may need an exemption from shoreline protection rules. This exemption must be applied for at the local municipality.
Jetty
You are generally allowed to temporarily moor a boat, such as a kayak, or swim from a jetty, as long as the jetty is not part of private property. However, it's important to ensure that you do not obstruct the jetty if the owner needs to use it. Additionally, be careful when using the jetty to avoid causing damage or inconvenience to its owner.
If a jetty is directly connected to a residence, it is typically considered part of private property, meaning access is restricted. Always be mindful of local regulations and guidelines, as some areas might have specific regulations.
Special rules for protected areas
In protected areas, there may be specific rules that restrict the right of public access:
- National parks and nature reserves may have specific rules regarding fires, camping, and mooring boats.
- Protected shoreline areas may have similar regulations to safeguard vulnerable wildlife and plants, or to reduce the impact of high visitor numbers.
- Bird protection areas help protect birds during sensitive periods, such as the nesting season in spring and summer. Access may be temporarily restricted to avoid disturbance, and activities like hiking, boating, or landing on islands may be prohibited. Look out for yellow or red-and-yellow signs indicating such restrictions.
- Seal protection areas ensure seals can raise their pups undisturbed. Going ashore or boating too close (within 50–100 meters) is prohibited during specific periods. Rules may vary, so check with the County Administrative Board (Länsstyrelsen) for details.
Other regulations
Under the Navigation Ordinance, the County Administrative Board may issue regulations about boat traffic, including speed limits and restrictions on water-skiing.
- Personal watercraft (jet skis) may only be operated in designated areas or public navigation channels.
- Restrictions may apply in military zones. However, foreign nationals have the same right of access to these areas as Swedish citizens, unless otherwise stated.
If you've used a canoe or other equipment in waters affected by crayfish plague, you must dry and disinfect your gear before using it elsewhere. The County Administrative Board can provide information about which waters are affected.
Practice good seamanship
Under the Swedish Maritime Code, those traveling by water must show consideration for their surroundings. As a boater, you are required to practice good seamanship and be aware of the rules and regulations specific to the waters you're in.