The Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2026

Amendment Scotland In force since 15 Sep 2026

Jurisdiction

Scotland

Commencement

15 September 2026

Amends

Mini Summary

Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004

This Act sets out a series of measures which are designed to conserve biodiversity and to protect and enhance the biological and geological natural heritage of Scotland.

This Act also locates the conservation of biodiversity and of Scotland’s natural environment with a wider British, European and global context. In relation to biodiversity in particular, it requires public bodies and office-holders to consider the effect of their actions at a local, regional, national and international level. Measures relating to the protection of species and habitats also recognise the importance of the wider international context.

The Act is spilt into 5 parts and contributes to the new system for nature conservation by means of a combination of both new measures and amendments to existing legislation.

Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014

This Act sets out the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency’s (SEPA) enforcement regime for organisations subject to environmental regulation in Scotland. It brings together the Scottish Government’s ‘Better Regulation’ and ‘Better Environmental Regulation’ programmes.

The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994

The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 consolidate and revoke the 1994 Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994, except where they apply in Scotland.

These Regulations place a duty upon all competent authorities to ensure the protection of European Sites* and to prevent adverse effects on the environment.

Amendment

Technical changes are made to replace references to the Hill Farming Act 1946 with reference to the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024. The 2024 Act sets out licensing requirements for the use of traps and making of muirburn.

Duties

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Link to full government text

Published 23 September 2026 · by The Compliance People