Use of private lands to camp

[NIscouter]

I have been looking into using private property for camping with our troop. One of the landowners asked me about liability protection. I have looked a bit, searched this forum, and have come up with no info. Is there anything that I can use or point to to help us in this matter?(This message has been edited by NIscouter)

[mdutch]

The BSA Website says that one of the responsbilities of the council is to provide " Liability insurance protection" . I advise you to contact your council for more details.

[Eamonn]

Comprehensive General Liability Insurance

 

This coverage provides primary general liability coverage for registered volunteer Scouters with respect to claims arising out of an official Scouting activity with the exception that the coverage is excess over any insurance which may be available to the volunteer for loss arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle or watercraft. This insurance is only available while the vehicle or watercraft is in the actual use of a Scouting unit and being used for a Scouting purpose. Because of the high limits, volunteers should NOT be placed in a position where their assets are jeopardized because of a negligence liability claim or lawsuit.

 

The insurance provided unregistered Scouting volunteers through the BSA general liability insurance program is excess over any other insurance the volunteer might have to his or her benefit, usually a homeowner's, personal liability, or auto liability policy.

 

There is no coverage for those who commit intentional or criminal acts

Call phone number (972) 580-2000 and speak to BSA Risk Management if you have a question related to insurance.

 

Eamonn.

[scoutingagain]

To be honest, if I was the owner, I'd consider requiring the scouts and/or their parents sign a permission slip holding the owner harmless. I don't know how valid it would be, but it is pretty standard fare when dealing with private outfittters, tourguides or other businesses.

 

SA

[EagleInKY]

We've used private lands several times and have never been asked to provide anything. I guess they expect us to live by "a Scout is Trustworthy"...

[FScouter]

As the council insurance person if they will provide a certificate of insurance naming the landowner as an additional named insured.

[NIscouter]

EagleinKY - I don't thik it is the scouts they are worried about, it is thier parents and associated lawyers. Thanks all for the ideas and info.

[Eamonn]

I think making the phone call and getting what is needed -If anything- stright from the people who are paid to know this stuff, is the way to go.

Eamonn.

[scoutingagain]

In this day and age I think the owner is asking a very prudent question and FScouter has given the best answer.

 

SA

[NIscouter]

Just a follow up on this topic. I called our council about liability for private landowners and they OFFERED to send a certificate of insurance naming the private landowner. I didn't even get a chance to ask for one. They offered to give this out to any private landowner who offered us the chance to camp on their land. Good call, Fscouter!

 

Now, the trick is to get that travel permit in on time every time :>