Private roads
You are welcome to walk, cycle, or ride horses on private roads, if you make sure not to cause any damage. However, property owners may restrict access to motor vehicles, as traffic can harm the road.
It is possible to reach hidden gems like swimming spots and berry-picking areas by taking small or private roads. While these roads are often privately owned, you are allowed to walk, cycle and go horse riding on them. As long as you pass houses at a distance and respect the privacy of residents, you are exercising the right of public access.
Keep in mind
- Village roads that run through a farm and continue on the other side, are usually fine to pass along.
- Barns and outbuildings located close to the road can often be passed without issue.
Motor vehicle restrictions
If a road owner chooses to restrict motor vehicles, they must clearly indicate this with a sign or barrier, including homemade signs, which must also be respected. The purpose of restricting motor vehicles is to prevent road damage and avoid repair costs. Walking, cycling, and horse riding remain permitted, although local traffic regulations may occasionally restrict non-motorised traffic, though this is rare.
Signs and restrictions
Landowners need a permit from the local municipality to put signs in place that exclude the public from accessing areas for outdoor recreation. Signs that prohibit walking, cycling, or horse riding on private roads are not allowed. Road signs for local traffic regulations in built-up areas are managed by the municipality or the regional unit of the Swedish National Road Administration. Landowners are responsible for other types of signs, such as warning or direction signs.
Parking rules
Parking rules on private roads follow the same guidelines as on public roads. Road owners can set additional parking regulations using local traffic laws. They can also regulate parking through control fees for illegal parking.
Subsidised roads
Private roads that receive government funding for maintenance must remain open to public traffic. Owners may temporarily restrict access for certain vehicles during high-risk periods, such as the spring thaw, but only after consulting the relevant authorities. Forest roads built with government grants have specific rules regarding motor vehicle access based on the grant terms.