Licensing News

Scottish Natural Heritage's new licensing duties

Following the introduction of the Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011, Scottish Ministers have delegated the majority* of their species licensing powers to Scottish Natural Heritage. Our increased role includes licensing for the purposes of preserving public health or public or air safety, for preventing the spread of disease and for the purposes of preventing serious damage.

The Act also introduces some completely new licensing purposes. These new areas of licensing include out of season heather burning , and licensing impacts on some species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) under a new purpose 'for any other social, economic or environmental purpose'.

Our licensing web pages have been updated to provide information on all of the changes arising from the new Act. As part of our aim to continue to provide a clear, transparent, consistent and efficient licensing service we will be reviewing and refining forms and guidance for all of our licensing functions over the coming months. Watch this space for more information.  

*Exceptions include certain areas of licensing in respect to cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), which are dealt with by Marine Scotland  .