Guidelines for setting up Geocaches on Woodland Trust land

The following guidelines are published in draft form in order to ensure that the activity can progress in harmony with the many other interests and legal constraints involved in the Woodland Trust site.
  • Ensure the cache container is clearly marked, stating that the contents are harmless and giving the placer’s e-mail address or other contact method. Only items that would be deemed safe and acceptable for an unaccompanied child to find should be placed in the cache.
  • No cache may be placed in such a way as to risk damage or disturbance to any Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM). Protect our heritage.
  • No items of food or drink of any kind should be placed in the cache.
  • No lighters, matches or flammable objects should be placed in the cache.
  • Caches must not be hidden in animal holes or runs.
  • Fences and walls should never be damaged when placing or seeking a cache, and should only be crossed by a gate or stile.
  • Maintenance of the cache is the responsibility of the placer.
  • When leaving the cache site, after finding or hiding a cache, there must be no sign of disturbance.
  • While there is public access through most of the woodland on foot, no vehicle access is permitted off the public highway. Always park sensibly, avoiding blocking forest entrances.
  • Forestry operations can be dangerous, and caches should be temporarily closed on request where operations will create a hazard to cachers. The Woodland Officer will advise on the period of closure, and potential alternative cache locations if appropriate. All warning signs must be obeyed.
  • If a geocaching event is proposed the organising group must apply to the Woodland Officer for special permission. The Woodland Officer will supply a Site Risk Assessment and map. The organiser of the event will be required to supply details of their Public Liability Insurance and an operational Risk Assessment before permission will be given.

Application form