[peartreewoodlandsmallholding]

Hi, we have a public footpath that runs through our land down at the edge of the field for two thirds of the length of our field but then the footpath goe,s up diaganolly through the centre of the field, i want to fence off the footpath so i have two triangle shaped paddocks/mini fields, to the left and right of the path with stock mesh just wondered if anyone could tell me how wide by law a footpath has to be if its fenced on both sides, Many thanks

[lachlanandmarcus]

If the legal width of the path isnt known (check with council as you wouldnt want to fence and then have to take it down as if a legal width is defined that overrides any other rules) then absolute minimum seems to be about 1-1.2m but recommended is 2m (which would also help avoid moans as with fencing both sides, 1-1.2m would be harder for those coming in opposite directions to pass). Thats assuming it is purely a footpath and not anything higher like bridleway.
Any electric fence involved and you would def want it 2m wide or more and also there is a legal obligation to have signs advising of the electric fence every so many metres.

[Factotum]

Here in Scotland councils have an Outdoor Access officer who give advice on such matters. In England I believe they have Rights of Way officers - try getting the details from your local council.

[Fowgill Farm]

We have a footpath like you runs diagonal thro our front field, we have never felt the need to fence it, once the summer cattle are in and a few pigs people tend to stay clear of it for some reason   Wouldn't care but Angus and his girls are lovely beasties 
Mandy

[bazzais]

Have a few up here and they are no wider than 1 meter and have barbed wire on either side and a single strand of normal wire the walkers side for safety - although the danger of barbed shouldnt really matter - as they are on a public footpath and walk at their own risk in these areas.

[peartreewoodlandsmallholding]

Hi thanks for all the replys and advice, the only reason i wanted to fence off the footpath is because were going to put sheep on their and we get quite a few dog walkers who feel our field is an extension of their garden and they let their dogs off lead roaming all round the field and doing there pooping everywhere on the path they just carry on walking pretend they havent noticed and dont pick it up. just want to keep them on the footpath and the dogs not chasing my sheep!!!

[jaykay]

Yes, for peace of mind, I'd fence a footpath going through my land too  It just engineers out the worry and potential problems and I'm a great one for engineering out problems rather than trying to chance people's behaviour - it's way more effective!