Off-road driving permit

All off-road driving is prohibited according to the Nature Conservation Act.

Who needs to apply?

You must apply for a permit if you intend to carry out commercial activities within a protected area.

Conditions and processing

• You may not begin any activity or preparations within the area until a permit has been granted.

• Applications must be submitted by the applicant themselves (not on behalf of others).

• If applying for multiple areas, submit one joint application and specify each location and exact site within the areas.

Processing time

• Up to 15 working days from the time all required documents have been received.

• For activities within the Mývatn and Laxá conservation area, processing may take up to 30 days.

Fees

• Fees are charged according to the current fee schedule.

• If processing exceeds the base fee, an hourly rate is charged for additional expert review.

• If the application is submitted within 5 working days before the activity starts, an extra fee equivalent to 2 hours of expert work may apply.

What you need to prepare

• Business ID number (kennitala)

• Contact person details (ID number, email, phone)

• Payer’s ID number

• Description of the activity and location

• Maps and photos showing marked activity areas

• Schedule and number of staff/guests

• Information about equipment, structures, and potential disturbance

• Permits from the municipality, landowner, and health authorities (if applicable)