The main content of this page starts here

Is access to private forests permitted? Background information

Is access to private forests permitted?

Yes, but… On principle, one can only enter private land with the permission of the owner.

Private path in the forest. © contadora1999 - stock.adobe.com

This applies equally to homes, domestic gardens, company grounds, private roads and agricultural areas. There are exceptions for the forest (Article 14 of the Federal Forest Act). According to these, anyone may enter forests in Germany for recreational purposes as long as these areas are not barred for special reasons (e.g. timber harvest, afforestation area). Entry is at one’s own risk.
Those pursuing other objectives in the forest (e.g. commercially collecting mushrooms) need the forest owner’s permission. The forest owners must consent to entry for recreational purposes.
The forest and forest owners appreciate it if, in return, forest visitors behave as guests.