Rural restrictive covenant
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Rural restrictive covenants limit how land or property in the countryside can be used, often to preserve its character, protect agricultural land, or maintain environmental integrity.
These covenants can affect farming operations, development plans, and land sales, making it essential for landowners and buyers to fully understand their implications before proceeding with a transaction. Whether imposed by previous landowners or local authorities, restrictive covenants can have a lasting impact on the use and value of rural property.
Understanding, enforcing, or modifying a restrictive covenant requires specialist legal expertise, particularly in rural settings where land use regulations can be complex. Whether you need to ensure compliance, challenge an outdated restriction, or negotiate a release from a covenant, our experienced rural law solicitors provide clear, strategic advice. We help landowners navigate legal obstacles while protecting their interests and maximising the potential of their property.
What is a rural area restrictive covenant?
A restrictive covenant is a legal agreement that restricts the use of a property in specific ways. In rural areas, these covenants can limit activities such as building developments, changing land use, or altering the appearance of properties. They are often put in place to preserve the character of rural landscapes, protect agricultural land, or maintain historical or environmental features.

Why do restrictive covenants matter for rural properties?
Restrictive covenants play a crucial role in rural property management. Whether you are buying, selling, or developing rural land, understanding existing covenants is essential. They can impact your ability to build new structures, change the land’s purpose, or carry out certain activities. Failure to comply with these restrictions can lead to legal disputes, fines, or even undoing completed work.
How can Moore Barlow help with restrictive covenants?
Our experienced solicitors offer tailored advice on dealing with restrictive covenants in rural areas. We can:
Review existing covenants: We assess the terms of any covenants attached to your property, explaining the restrictions and their potential impact.
Provide clear guidance: Our team offers practical advice on how to comply with or modify restrictive covenants, helping you achieve your goals while avoiding legal risks.
Assist with disputes: If a covenant is causing difficulties, we can represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings to find a resolution.
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Can restrictive covenants be changed or removed?
Yes, it is sometimes possible to modify or remove a restrictive covenant, but the process can be complex. We can help you negotiate with the party who benefits from the covenant, or, where necessary, apply to the Lands Tribunal to discharge or modify it. Our expertise ensures that any changes are legally sound and align with your plans for the property.
What should you do if a restrictive covenant is breached?
If you have breached a restrictive covenant—or if someone else has breached a covenant affecting your land—our team can help. We assess the situation, provide advice on your legal position, and work to resolve the issue quickly. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or legal action, we aim to protect your interests and minimise disruption.
Need advice on rural restrictive covenants? Contact us
If you need help understanding, managing, or resolving issues related to restrictive covenants on rural land, contact Moore Barlow’s specialist solicitors today.
Our team offers clear, practical support to ensure your rural property remains compliant and secure.
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