United Environmental Services complete Protected species licences every year on behalf of clients ranging from householders to utilities companies.

Licensing and Mitigation

Many species which are resident in the UK are protected by UK and European legislation. Any action or development which has the potential to affect a protected species its habitat may need to be carried out under a protected species licence issued by Natural England. The protected species legislation is not linked to planning permission, and so even if planning permission has been granted by your local planning authority you must still comply with the legislation. Failure to comply with the legislation can lead to heavy fines and potentially custodial sentences. Wildlife crime attracts a great deal of media attention and the bad publicity which comes with a court case can damage a business far more than any fine or sentence imposed by the courts.

The European protected licensing process can appear very confusing if you are unfamiliar with it. United Environmental Services have experience of many successful protected species licence applications. We can provide advice on whether or not you will need to apply for a licence and what Natural England will need from you before they will grant it.

Contact us for free professional advice early in the planning stages of your project to ensure you don't fall foul of the legislation.

Related Species

• Badger
• Barn Owl
• Bats
• Dormouse
• Great Crested Newt
• Natterjack toad
• Otter
• Reptiles
• Water Vole