What the Law States When Dealing With Bats in a Property
Which legislation is relevant for bats and roosts?
- England and Wales, the legislation is the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended); the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000; the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC, 2006); and by the Conservation of Habitats and Species. Regulations (2010).
- Scotland, the legislation that applies is the Conservation (Natural Habitats &C.) Regulations 1994 (as amended).
- Northern Ireland bats are listed under Schedule 2 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995 and in the Republic of Ireland, under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Act 1976 and Schedule 1 of the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997.
Who should take note of the legislation?
- Architects, property developers, demolition companies, builders and roofers.
- Property owners/householders who have a bat roost in their property.
- Woodland owners, arboriculturists and foresters; information about woodlands and bats.
- Pest controllers. Information about bats in buildings.
- Planning officers and building surveyors.
