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European Protected Species Licensing

We have 100% success rate with licensing, on development projects across the UK

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European Protected Species Licensing

Don’t worry – we have a 100% success rate in licensing.

A European Protected Species Development licence is required when development works are likely to adversely affect a European protected species, including bats and great crested newts. The licence, properly known as a European Protected Species Development Licence (EPSDL), is issued by one of the statutory conservation bodies, which are Natural England in England, Natural Resources Wales in Wales and Scottish Natural Heritage in Scotland.

How much does it cost?

The cost of a licence varies on the complexity of the project, depending on the size of the development, and the type and size of the population of the species present. Generally speaking, the cost will be between £600.00 – £1000.00 for a licence.

An Otter in grass

When can it be done?

A licence can be completed at any time but usually requires that full planning permission has been granted. This is a positive, as it means that you only have to pay for this once you are sure you can develop.

Anything else I need to know?

The licence needs detailed and up to date survey work to inform the application and although you would have done survey work already, it is possible that you need to do extra work to make sure the licence application is accepted. Usually you will need to have undertaken a survey, within the last 12 months.

What next?

Once the licence is granted, you can usually start your work although there may be timing constraints depending on the requirement of the licence. This will all be detailed within the licence and will be very clearly explained by us so that the process is as smooth as possible.