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What is the Norwegian mountain code (fjellvettreglene)?

All nine rules and why they were written.

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Short answer

The Norwegian mountain code (fjellvettreglene) is a set of nine safety rules for trips in the mountains, written by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) and the Red Cross. They ask you to plan and report your route, check weather and avalanche forecasts, carry the right equipment, use a map and compass, and turn back in time.

Safety in the Norwegian mountains a shield icon with a check mark next to a tent and a small no-campfire sign on a green hillside

Why

  1. The rules, first called «Fjellreglene», were introduced after a series of accidents and deaths in the mountains at Easter 1950.
  2. After another Easter with accidents in 1967, DNT and the Red Cross launched the campaign «Velkommen til fjells, men ta ansvaret selv» (Welcome to the mountains, but take responsibility yourself).
  3. DNT and the Red Cross have since revised the rules, and the updated version is adapted to all seasons.

Details

The nine rules are: 1) plan your trip and report where you are going; 2) adapt the trip to ability and conditions; 3) pay attention to weather and avalanche forecasts; 4) be prepared for bad weather and cold, even on short trips; 5) bring the equipment you need to help yourself and others; 6) make safe route choices and recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice; 7) use a map and compass and always know where you are; 8) turn back in time, there is no shame in turning around; 9) conserve your strength and seek shelter if necessary. If an accident happens, the Red Cross advises you to alert the police on 112.

Tip

Leave your route and expected return time with someone at home before you set off, as the first rule asks you to.

Common misconception

The mountain code is only for Easter and winter trips.

What actually happens

DNT and the Red Cross have updated the rules for all seasons, and rule 4 says to be prepared for bad weather and cold even on short trips.

People also ask

  • What does the Norwegian Mountain Code say?

Sources

Information checked on 15 October 2026.

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