From 6 April 2011, under the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 the Scottish Government is responsible for the new marine licensing system for activities carried out in the Scottish inshore region of UK waters from 0-12 nautical miles (nm).
Under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, they are also the licensing and enforcement authority for the Scottish offshore region from 12-200nm (other than reserved matters).
The new system largely replaces Part 2 of the Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 (FEPA) and Part 2 of the Coast Protection Act 1949 (CPA).
The new system will enable consistent decision-making about what activities are allowed to take place at sea. Through the process of marine licensing, and the conditions placed on licences, economically and socially beneficial activities are promoted while minimising adverse effects on the environment, human health and users of the sea. Licensing should also simplify the way we reconcile development and nature conservation at sea.
Activities requiring a Marine Licence
Marine Scotland administers the licensing scheme on behalf of the Scottish Government within United Kingdom waters adjacent to Scotland (0-12nm and 12-200nm). Licensable activities include:
- Coastal and marine developments
- Windfarms
- Wave and tidal power
- Removal and disposal of marine dredged material at sea
Advice and Information
For further advice and information, or advice on an application that has not yet been assigned to a Marine Licensing Casework Officer, please contact the Marine Scotland Licensing Operations Team.