Hiking and Everyman’s Right in Finland

People from all nationalities have the free right to walk and hike in the countryside. This free right comes hand in hand with some responsibilities. The so-called "Everyman’s right" gives visitors the right to walk, ski, ride, cycle, rowpicnic, swim or paddle freely in the countryside, except in the immediate surroundings of people’s homes and in cultivated fields. You can freely pick berries, mushrooms and flowers, as long as thet aren't protected species, wherever everyman's right applies.

Hunters need the landowner’s permission and official hunting permits.
Leave no trace where you hike or camp.
Avoid unnecessary noise.
Don’t disturb wildlife, people or damage property.
Wash yourself and your dishes on dry land.

Use fire with consideration. During the general fire warning, it’s always forbidden to make a fire, also in designated fireplaces.

Dogs must be kepty on a lead unless landowner or the holder of the hunting rights to the land gives permission. All dogs must be kept on a lead in the immediate vicinity of their handler from 1st March to 19th August. Cats may only roam freely in their owner’s yard or garden.

Don’t drive motor vehicles off road without the landowner’s permission.

The use of snowmobiles is only permitted on frozen waterways and designated routes, otherwise the landowner’s permission is always required. The drivers must be over 15-year-old and have a valid T-class licence. Never damage or disturb the environment, nature, local residents or properties. Always use safety helmets and very warm clothes. The snowmobile must be insured and registered. Drive very carefully to avoid accidents.

Don’t disturb reindeer, birds or trees.

Don’t collect moss, lichen or fallen trees from other people’s property.

There are plants protected nationwide or e.g. in the province of Lapland.

Further information:
www.environment.fi > Nature conservation > Nature, recreation and tourism.

Source of the text:
Ministy of the Environment
P.O. Box 35
FI-00023 GOVERNMENT