Written Question · S5W-33137 · Session 5
Whether travel in campervans between local authority areas, which does not use camp sites, is permitted under the most recent COVID-19 guid…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government whether travel in campervans between local authority areas, which does not use camp sites, is permitted under the most recent COVID-19 guidance.
The answer
Our Strategic Framework states clearly that if a local authority area has been placed in level 3 or 4, there should be no non-essential travel in or out of the area. This applies to use of campervans for overnight stays, as the purpose of travel would be leisure which is deemed non-essential.
Travel between devolved nations is restricted unless for essential purposes.
Leisure travel and overnight stays are permitted within areas designated as level 0,1 or 2, so campervan users residing in these levels may travel between them freely, including staying overnight. Covid guidance and restrictions must be respected at all times. Transit through areas designated as level 3 or 4 is also permitted, provided you do not stop.
Users residing in level 3 may only use a campervan for leisure purposes, including overnight, within their own local authority area (other than when being used for essential travel purposes). Use of campervans (other than when being used for essential travel purposes) is discouraged in level 4 areas, in line with restrictions on tourism.
If users elect not to use a formal campsite they should be aware that the Scottish Outdoor Access Code does not cover vehicular camping, and should follow normal good practice for ‘freedom camping’, including seeking the landowner’s permission, and respecting local communities.
The Scottish Government has now introduced short term regulations that will make breaching travel restrictions a punishable offence. We would ask therefore that those undertaking such trips ensure that they plan their trip in advance and keep up to date with the information to ensure any travel for leisure purposes is compliant with the Strategic Framework.
Travel between devolved nations is restricted unless for essential purposes.
Leisure travel and overnight stays are permitted within areas designated as level 0,1 or 2, so campervan users residing in these levels may travel between them freely, including staying overnight. Covid guidance and restrictions must be respected at all times. Transit through areas designated as level 3 or 4 is also permitted, provided you do not stop.
Users residing in level 3 may only use a campervan for leisure purposes, including overnight, within their own local authority area (other than when being used for essential travel purposes). Use of campervans (other than when being used for essential travel purposes) is discouraged in level 4 areas, in line with restrictions on tourism.
If users elect not to use a formal campsite they should be aware that the Scottish Outdoor Access Code does not cover vehicular camping, and should follow normal good practice for ‘freedom camping’, including seeking the landowner’s permission, and respecting local communities.
The Scottish Government has now introduced short term regulations that will make breaching travel restrictions a punishable offence. We would ask therefore that those undertaking such trips ensure that they plan their trip in advance and keep up to date with the information to ensure any travel for leisure purposes is compliant with the Strategic Framework.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S5W-33137 by reference.