Ranger Code

Sat, 7 November

Active now

Swaling (controlled burning) on Merrivale Common until 14 March. Avoid the area and keep dogs on leads nearby.

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Latest news Sister Park for Dartmoor

Active now

Swaling (controlled burning) on Merrivale Common until 14 March. Avoid the area and keep dogs on leads nearby.

Read more

Our Rangers care for Dartmoor, a unique protected landscape with rare wildlife and free-roaming livestock and ponies.

Help them to keep Dartmoor special by taking more care and following the Ranger Code.
Take moor care on Dartmoor by sticking to paths, keeping dogs under close control, taking litter home and giving wildlife and animals space to roam freely.

Take Moor Care

By following the Ranger Code, you’ll help to keep Dartmoor special.

  • Be fire aware

    Open fires are not permitted in the National Park. Leave BBQs at home and bring a picnic instead. Dispose of cigarettes, vapes and glass safely.

  • Give nature space

    Stay at least one bus length away from cows and their babies, share the roads and paths and don’t feed the animals.

  • Check the camping map

    Check the camping map to find out where you can backpack camp. Use a campsite for large tents and accessories. Sleeping in vehicles is not permitted on Dartmoor.

  • Look after your dog

    Keep your dog on a lead during ground-nesting bird season (March – July) and under effective control at all other times.

  • Use the right track

    Cyclists and horse riders can use bridleways and byways on Dartmoor. Give way to walkers and share the path.

  • Drive with care

    Keep to the 40mph speed limit across Dartmoor, watch out for animals on the road and park with consideration of access points.

  • Leave no trace

    Bag up litter, food waste and dog poo and take it away with you. Leave gates as you find them and always carry out what you carried in.

  • Keep yourself & others safe

    Plan your adventure to fit your needs and abilities and be prepared for any weather. Dartmoor is a farmed landscape, share the space with those who work here.

Report wildlife crime & injured animals

  • See an injured animal?

    All livestock, including ponies are owned by farmers and commoners. If you come across injured livestock, please phone the Livestock Protection Officer.

    07873 587561

  • Uncontrolled dogs or an attack?

    If you witness uncontrolled dogs, livestock attacks or other wildlife crime, report it to the Police.

    101 (non-emergency)