Commentary on Sections Part 4: Government Pipe-Line and Storage System Section 122: Warrants for the purposes of section 121
515.This section provides for the issue of a warrant to authorise entry on to land in the exercise of a right conferred by section 121, if necessary using reasonable force.
516.A justice of the peace (or a sheriff in Scotland) may issue a warrant if satisfied that: at least seven days’ notice has been given to the occupier of the land, the occupier cannot be found, or urgent action is required to prevent or limit serious damage to health or the environment; entry to the land has been or is likely to be refused (except where the occupier cannot be found); and, there are reasonable grounds for exercising the right.
517.It is an offence to intentionally obstruct the exercise of such a warrant and a person guilty of that offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.