What is the new approach England is taking to deal with "fly campers"?

England is assigning alternative punishments, such as mandatory litter-picking sessions, instead of issuing fines to deal with "fly campers" - people who pitch tents illegally in protected landscapes.

How has "fly camping" impacted Dartmoor National Park in England?

Fly campers in Dartmoor National Park have been treating the protected landscape "like a festival site," bringing generators, boom boxes, and mini fridges, and violating the park's Backpack Camping Code.

What are the environmental consequences of "fly camping" in England?

The environmental toll of fly camping can be steep, with reports of scorched grass from disposable grills, piles of trash, habitats for native species destroyed, and even human waste and cut trees left behind.

Home / Environment / England Tackles Illegal Camping with Restorative Cleanup Duty

England Tackles Illegal Camping with Restorative Cleanup Duty

14 Oct

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Summary

Officials in England assign litter-picking sessions as punishment for illegal camping
Fly camping surges in popularity, damaging protected landscapes
Authorities aim to encourage responsible enjoyment of nature

England Tackles Illegal Camping with Restorative Cleanup Duty

As of October 14th, 2025, officials in England have adopted a new strategy to address the growing issue of "fly camping" - the illegal pitching of tents in protected natural areas. Rather than issuing fines, local authorities have begun implementing alternative punishments, such as mandatory litter-picking sessions.

This shift in approach is garnering attention, as it departs from the traditional fine-based model. According to a Cumberland Council spokesperson, the goal is to ensure "clear and proportionate consequences" while prioritizing both accountability and the swift restoration of damaged sites.

The problem of fly camping has surged in recent years, with some areas like Dartmoor National Park in Devon being treated "like a festival site" by campers who bring generators, boom boxes, and mini fridges. This behavior directly violates the park's Backpack Camping Code, which requires campers to leave no trace and avoid disturbing wildlife.