Amphibian and reptile licensing

These pages cover licensing scenarios for great-crested newts and natterjack toads as European Protected Species . Scotland's shores  attract reptile visitors in the shape of leatherback, loggerhead, Kemp's Ridley and green turtles, these marine turtles are also European Protected species, however licensing situations for marine turtles is relatively rare.

Due to the lower levels of protection afforded to other species of amphibian and reptiles in Scotland, licensing situations for these species are also relatively rare.  However, if you think that your actions might require to be licensed for these species, please contact us and we would be happy to advise further.

Great-crested newts and natterjack toads

Great crested newts and natterjack toads and the places in which they live are given protection under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended) as European protected species.  Licences are available for certain purposes to permit actions that might otherwise constitute an offence in relation to them.  Advice is provided below on licensing requirements for common scenarios in relation to these species and the places in which they live.  Links to the appropriate forms and guidance are given for situations where a licence is required.

• Surveys, monitoring, science and research
• Development
• Land management
• Possession

Is the scenario you are looking for covered in the above? If not just ask