Scotland
All the latest news and advice concerning general licences and how they affect you.
NatureScot's review of general licences in Scotland
NatureScot is reviewing the Scotland general licences for the control of pest birds and other wildlife management activities. A public consultation on the first phase of the review ended on 31 August 2026. In its consultation response, BASC gave support for the retention of the general licences and the species currently listed. We have also recommended the addition of a range of bird species including raven, cormorant, gulls and parakeets.
What you need to know about general licences
General licences in Scotland are currently issued by NatureScot (formerly Scottish Natural Heritage). You don’t need to apply to use general licences but you are required by law to abide by their terms and conditions.
The current general licences for Scotland are:
- GL01/2026 – To kill or take certain birds for the conservation of wild birds
- GL02/2026Â – To kill or take certain birds for the prevention of serious damage
- GL03/2026 – To kill or take certain birds for the preservation of public health, public safety and preventing the spread of disease
- GL04/2026 – To take red grouse using certain methods in order to administer medication or collect samples
- GL15/2026Â –Â Sale, advertisement, possession & transportation of Greylag geese & Greylag goose meat by hunters, caterers and retailers
There is a requirement to comply with standing conditions when using general licences over certain special protected areas and special areas of conservation.
Where there is a need to manage or control wildlife and such activity is not covered by a relevant general licence, an individual or specific licence may be applied for. Find the relevant application form here.
All traps must also be registered with NatureScot (not Police Scotland). Register your traps here.Â
What BASC is doing
We work closely with NatureScot to ensure current and future licences are fit for purpose. We regularly meet representatives from NatureScot and the Scottish Government to make the views of the BASC membership known.
If you have questions about Scotland’s general licences, give BASC Scotland a call on 01350 723226.
2026 General Licences in Scotland
