Protected species of invertebrate - Licensing

Licences for surveys, conservation, research or education

If you wish to carry out work on any protected invertebrate species for survey, conservation, science, research or educational purposes, and if that work might otherwise result in an offence being committed, you may need a licence.  Licences for this purpose are issued by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Download an application form 

See also - Freshwater pearl mussel licences

Protected invertebrate licensing for social, economic or environmental purposes

It is possible to licence activities that could affect Schedule 5    invertebrate species for social, economic or environmental reasons. This could cover a range of activities including development. However, it is important to note that licences may only be issued for this purpose provided that:

• the activity authorised by the licence will contribute to significant social, economic or environmental benefit; and,
• there is no other satisfactory solution  .

*NEW* Guidance for applicants  - on the new licensing purpose for non-bird species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 for 'social, economic or environmental purposes'.

If Schedule 5   invertebrate species are likely to be found in or close to the site in question then it is strongly recommended that you have a survey undertaken by a suitably qualified and experienced person. If they are found then the surveyor should identify what impact the proposal might have on them and whether or not the proposed works could result in an offence.

Download an application form 

Licensing for other purposes

Contact the Scottish Natural Heritage species licensing team for licences for any other purpose in relation to protected invertebrate species. This includes preserving public health and safety or preventing serious damage to property.