Council to clamp down on illegal Lake District wild camping

Cumberland Council has signed off on a new order to give its civil enforcement team the power to issue fines to people caught fly camping.

The Public Space Protection Order has been in place since November and will last three years – making this summer the first time it will be put to the test.

It aims to clamp down on reports of anti-social behaviour and give council teams and police more power to take action where necessary.

A spokesperson said: “We are delighted to welcome visitors to explore the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and beautiful open spaces of the Lake District. To help preserve these special places for everyone to enjoy.

“We introduced a Public Space Protection Order in November 2024. This was developed, with community input, earlier in 2024 to help prevent and deter anti-social behaviour.

“Wild camping has long been a tradition, but in some cases, it has unfortunately led to fly camping, which can result in littering, damage to woodland and habitats, and abandoned equipment.

“Our goal is to protect these cherished natural spaces so that they remain pristine for future generations.

“Our Education and Enforcement Team, working alongside Cumbria Constabulary, will be present in key areas to engage with visitors, explain the importance of responsible outdoor recreation, and encourage best practices.

“In cases where anti-social behaviour occurs, a Fixed Penalty Notice may be issued as a last resort.

“The PSPO is in place for three years, ensuring that everyone can continue to enjoy Cumberland’s breathtaking scenery responsibly. Wild camping itself is not an offence, but where it leads to behaviour that negatively impacts the environment and others, action may be taken.

“We truly appreciate those who visit with care and respect, helping to keep Cumberland a wonderful place for all. Enjoy your time exploring!”

Josh MacAlister, who represents Whitehaven & Workington, told Wasdale residents the news in a letter earlier this year.

He said in the letter, which was shared on social media by a resident, that he had secured a commitment from the authority and the police to make sure ‘dedicated resource’ would be provided to catch illegal campers.

He told Cumbria Crack: “Cumberland Council responded positively to community concerns and have given their education and enforcement team the necessary powers to take action against illegal fly camping.

“I’ve confirmed with the police, fire and crime commissioner that the police will be available to attend any incidents with them as required.

“I’ve also written, along with my colleagues the MP for Penrith and Solway, commissioner David Allen and councillor Denise Rollo to local landowners asking that they work with us to better warn against illegal fly camping and ensure that the council and police can access their land unimpeded to take action.”

He added he has written to the Lake District National Park Authority, National Trust and Forestry England and United Utilities to ask them to do more and to work with the council to address the issue.

Cumbria’s police, fire and crime commissioner David Allen said: “I’m delighted to have worked alongside a number of colleagues and partners to work to prevent and deter anti-social behaviour and those fly camping in the Wasdale Valley and beyond.

“Cumbria police will be working proactively with Cumberland Council and will also provide resources to challenge those committing anti-social behaviour which causes so much disruption to local communities.”

Fly-camping – not to be confused with wild camping – is named so when campers do not follow the rules of wild camping and when their planned pitch is not above the highest fell wall.