Licensing for protected species

More and more scientific, educational and conservation work needs to be carried out under licence. CCW aims to ensure the licensing system is of benefit to both wildlife and the needs of licensees

Licensing for protected species

CCW acknowledges that some individuals wish to engage in activities that might amount to criminal offences if unlicensed. However, our first concern is conserving the species themselves.

The possession of a licence is a privilege and not a right.

The licensing system

CCW has developed a licensing system, which provides an efficient service to customers and also helps us to monitor the status of protected species and often contributes to their conservation. Licence holders are asked for detailed information on the species they are studying, and where relevant, what conservation measures have been taken.

How to apply for a licence

• Please help CCW by applying early for your licence, and provide full details of the proposed activity.
• When assessing your applications, CCW expects applicants to demonstrate a blend of expertise, experience and ability to carry out the proposed activity.
• Research proposals and monitoring programmes should be well-founded, useful and effective.
• All applicants should be willing to cooperate with others.

Guidance for applicants

For certain species or species groups specific guidance has been produced to help those who wish to apply for licences to undertake survey work. See 'Resources' below.