All organised group events require formal permission. An event cannot run without a signed license or permit in place; otherwise it will be in breach of Forestry Commission byelaws and the event's Public Liability insurance will become invalid.
The forest operates a permissive access policy for walkers, cyclists and horse riders to come and enjoy this wonderful environment as individuals or in small groups. These users have priority for access. As from December 2005, pedestrians will have a legal right of access under the Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000. The forest does not close to general public access for private events.
As the event organiser you are personally responsible for your activity, the participants and the potential impact it could have on other people around you. Because of general public access, the needs of forest operations and environmental legislation, events must be properly planned to gaurantee that it passes off safely and enjoyably for everyone concerned.
Please work with us to ensure your event is planned properly.
A minimum of 8 weeks advance notice is required prior to your intended event date, but the longer the better to ensure good planning and to accommodate changes.
Guidance notes (PDF) are available to download, to assist with understanding the application process.
To apply for permission to hold an event in the Sandlings Forests (Rendlesham, Dunwich and Tunstall) contact the Recreation Ranger at Rendlesham Forest Centre, Sandlings Forest, Tangham, Woodbridge, Suffolk. IP12 3NF. Telephone: 01394 450164 or email nigel.turner@forestry.gsi.gov.uk.
To apply for permission to hold an event on Forestry Commission land in Cambridgeshire or Bedfordshire contact Forestry Commission Northants, Top Lodge, Fineshades, Nr Corby, Northamptonshire. NN17 3BB. Telephone: 01780 444920 or email northants@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
To apply for permission to hold an event in Thetford Forest including High Lodge Forest Centre, follow the guidelines below
You will require the following forms:-
- Permission Application form (PDF)
- Risk Assessment form (PDF)
- Please complete both in full and sign.
- Copy of Public Liability Insurance certificate to a minimum value of £2 million for low impact activities (small group walking activities with <25 people). For all other activities the minimum insurance cover will be £5 million. Applicants should always double check with their insurers that the planned activity fits within the existing terms of their policy.
- First draft map of the forest area and any routes you wish to use. You should always be able to personally inspect any proposed route. Maps of forest areas for event route planning are available on request (Tel: 01842 819081 or via e-mail e.anglia.fdo@forestry.gsi.gov.uk).
- This complete application should be sent to Forestry Commission East of England, Santon Downham, Brandon, Suffolk, IP27 0TJ marked For the Attention of Specialist Recreation AO.
Landowner's site risk assessment (PDF) is available to download and must be considered when planning your event.
Motorised Vehicle Use for Set Up, Take Down and Safety Managment at a Recreation Event.
Forestry Commission byelaws (PDF) prohibit the use of motorised vehicles on FC land without written consent and it is FC policy to minimise access to motorised vehicles. It is acknowledged that to set up, take down and manage safety at a recreation event a vehicle of some type may be required. Please refer to the FC East of England policy note on the use of motorised vehicles by event organisers, which forms part of the Guidance Notes (PDF).
Permission Charges
We must recover all administration costs associated with granting permissions for events. Therefore the minimum charge for any event is £57.50. The 2009 Price list PDF is available to download.
