Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026 implementation begins

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June 11, 2026

The Scottish Government has confirmed the first steps towards implementing the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026, following the legislation receiving Royal Assent earlier this year.

The act, which the Scottish Parliament passed on 12 March 2026, introduces a range of measures affecting wildlife management and muirburn in Scotland. BASC has been closely involved throughout the development of the legislation, seeking crucial amendments to ensure it is more workable.

We still do not believe that licensing is necessary; however, we will continue to monitor its implementation.

In correspondence received from the Scottish Government’s Nature Division Legislation team, officials thanked stakeholders, including BASC, for their engagement and support throughout the bill’s development and passage through parliament.

First provisions to come into force

The Scottish Government has confirmed that the act will be implemented in phases. Regulations laid before parliament this week will bring into force two provisions relating to muirburn licensing from 18 June 2026:

Section 55 – Muirburn licensing: making muirburn for the purpose of an approved training course.
Section 56 – Muirburn licensing: grounds for the grant of a licence.

The same regulations will also commence certain provisions of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024 that relate to muirburn.

Further changes expected

The government has indicated that further details on the timetable for commencing and implementing additional provisions within the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026 will be provided later this year.

Officials have also stated that they will continue to engage with stakeholders throughout the implementation process and ensure that affected groups have sufficient time to prepare before any provisions that directly impact them come into force.

BASC's continued engagement

BASC will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government as the implementation process progresses. We remain committed to ensuring that members’ interests are represented and that any changes affecting shooting, wildlife management and land management are clearly communicated.

We will provide further updates as information becomes available, including details of any practical implications for members and, where relevant, guidance on new licensing requirements.