Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026

2026 asp 6

An Act of the Scottish Parliament to make provision about setting targets relating to biodiversity; to make provision in relation to national parks; to make provision in connection with the management of deer; to make certain other miscellaneous provisions relating to environmental matters; and for connected purposes.

Enacted The Bill for this Act of the Scottish Parliament was passed by the Parliament on 29th January 2026 and received Royal Assent on 12th March 2026

Part 1 Targets for improving biodiversity¶

^I11 Targets for improving biodiversity¶

1 The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 is modified as follows.

2 Before section 1, insert—

3 In section 1 (duty to further the conservation of biodiversity), in subsection (2)—

a the “and” immediately following paragraph (a) is repealed,

b after paragraph (b) insert

4 After section 2A, insert—

Duties in respect of biodiversity targets

2B Purpose of setting targets

The targets to be set under this Part are to provide a means of supporting and measuring the progress being made in respect of—

a the implementation of the biodiversity strategy designated under section 2(1),

b the United Nations Environmental Programme Convention on Biological Diversity of 5 June 1992 as amended from time to time (or any United Nations Convention replacing that Convention),

c generally, the duty under section 1.

2C Duty to set targets

1 The Scottish Ministers may, by regulations, make provision for and in connection with targets in relation to—

a any matter which relates to any of the following topics—

i the condition or extent of any habitat,

ii the status of any species (including in particular those which are or may become threatened),

iii the environmental conditions for nature regeneration, and

b any other matter relating to the restoration or regeneration of biodiversity as they consider appropriate.

2 The Scottish Ministers must exercise the power under subsection (1) so as to—

a set at least one target in respect of each of the topics described in paragraph (a) of that subsection, and

b specify the manner in which, or indicators against which, progress toward and achievement of the target being set is to be measured.

3 A draft of a Scottish statutory instrument (or drafts of Scottish statutory instruments) containing regulations setting a target for a matter relating to each of the topics in subsection (1)(a) must be laid before the Scottish Parliament within 12 months of section 1 of the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026 coming into force.

4 Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative procedure (but see also section 2G).

2D Setting targets: statements

1 When setting any targets under section 2C, the Scottish Ministers must prepare a statement setting out—

a the approach the Scottish Ministers intend to take to ensure that the targets are met,

b how it is intended that the approach set out under paragraph (a) be funded,

c the anticipated timeline of the approach set out under paragraph (a),

d the organisations, or types of organisations, with which the Scottish Ministers intend to work to ensure that the targets are met,

e how the targets support or have regard to other relevant Scottish Government policies or strategies,

f how the Scottish Ministers intend to monitor and evaluate progress towards meeting the targets through measures or indicators identified in section 2C(2)(b),

g the potential implications and consequences if the targets are not met, and

h the actions the Scottish Ministers intend to take if the targets are not met.

2E Duties in relation to meeting targets

1 It is the duty of the Scottish Ministers to ensure that each target set under section 2C is met.

2 For the purpose of this section, a target is met if the measures or indicators specified in relation to the target in question are met, or as the case may be, achieved.

3 Subsection (4) applies if—

a a target is not met, or

b the Scottish Ministers believe that it is no longer possible for a target to be met.

4 The Scottish Ministers must—

a lay before the Scottish Parliament a statement setting out—

i their view as to why the target was not met or, as the case may be, is no longer possible to meet, and

ii the steps that they intend to take as a consequence of the target not being met or their belief that it is not possible to meet it, and

b as soon as reasonably practicable, lay before the Scottish Parliament a draft of a Scottish statutory instrument (or drafts of Scottish statutory instruments) containing regulations under section 2C(1) which revoke the target and set a new one.

Review of targets, topics and requirements to report

2F Reviewing progress and power to adjust topics

1 The Scottish Ministers must—

a carry out such reviews in relation to the targets set under section 2C(1) as they consider appropriate,

b not less than once in each 3-year period, prepare a report on the progress made towards meeting the targets during the period, and

c not less than once in each 10-year period—

i carry out a review of the targets set under, and the topics described in, section 2C(1), and

ii prepare a report on the review.

2 When carrying out a review under subsection (1), the Scottish Ministers must seek and have regard to scientific advice in relation to the targets set under, and topics described in, section 2C(1) from such persons as the Scottish Ministers consider to be independent and to have relevant expertise.

3 The Scottish Ministers may combine a report prepared under subsection (1)(b) with a report required under section 2(7).

4 The Scottish Ministers must, in respect of each report prepared under this section—

a lay the report before the Scottish Parliament,

b make a statement to the Parliament in relation to the report (or, in the case of a combined report, the report in so far as it relates to the targets set under section 2C(1)), and

c publish the report in a manner they consider appropriate.

5 The Scottish Ministers may, by regulations, add to or amend the topics described in section 2C(1).

6 Regulations under subsection (5) are subject to the affirmative procedure (but see also section 2G).

7 For the purpose of subsection (1)—

a the first 3-year period and first 10-year period begin on the day on which section 1 of the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026 comes into force, and

b each subsequent period begins with the date of publication of the previous report.

Process for setting or amending targets or adjusting topics

2G Process for setting or amending targets or adjusting topics

1 Before making regulations under section 2C(1) or 2F(5), the Scottish Ministers must—

a seek and have regard to scientific advice in relation to any target the regulations would set or the amendments they would make to the targets or, as the case may be, to the topics, from such persons as the Scottish Ministers consider to be independent and to have relevant expertise,

b consult such persons as the Scottish Ministers consider may have an interest in, or otherwise be affected by, the regulations, and

c in the case of regulations which would set or amend a target, be satisfied that the target, or amended target, can be met.

2 But the requirement to seek advice under subsection (1)(a) does not apply if—

a the regulations are being made in consequence of a review under section 2F(1), and

b the Scottish Ministers are satisfied that the advice provided in respect of the review is sufficient.

3 The Scottish Ministers must, at the same time as laying any regulations under section 2C(1) which amend a target or under section 2F(5) which amend a topic, lay before the Scottish Parliament a statement setting out why they consider it appropriate to amend the target or, as the case may be, topic.

4 The requirement to lay a statement under subsection (3) does not apply if a statement has already been laid under section 2E(4)(a) in respect of the amendment in question.

5 The Scottish Ministers may make regulations under section 2C which revoke or diminish a target (the “existing target”) only if—

a they are required to do so by virtue of section 2E(4)(b),

b they are satisfied that meeting the existing target would have no significant benefit compared with not meeting it or with meeting a diminished target, or

c changes in circumstances or scientific knowledge since the existing target was set or last amended mean that the target or any indicator or other means by which progress toward the target is measured is no longer appropriate.

6 If, before the day on which this section comes into force (and whether before or after the Bill for the Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2026 was passed), anything was done which, had it been undertaken after that day, would to any extent have satisfied paragraph (a) or (b) of subsection (1), that paragraph is or, as the case may be, those paragraphs are to that extent to be taken to have been satisfied.

Independent review

2H Independent review

1 Environmental Standards Scotland is to—

a review each report prepared by the Scottish Ministers under section 2F(1), and

b assess the manner in which the Scottish Ministers seek independent advice in compliance with their duties under sections 2F(2) and 2G(1).

2 Environmental Standards Scotland is to prepare and publish a report on the outcome of each—

a review under subsection (1)(a), and

b assessment under subsection (1)(b).

3 Before publishing a report under subsection (2), Environmental Standards Scotland must—

a send a copy of the report to the Scottish Ministers, and

b lay a copy of the report before the Scottish Parliament.

4 The Scottish Ministers must, as soon as reasonably practicable after a report is published under subsection (2), lay a statement before the Scottish Parliament setting out any action the Scottish Ministers intend to take as a result of the report.

5 The requirement to lay a statement under subsection (4) does not apply if a statement made under section 2F(4) has already set out the action the Scottish Ministers intend to take as a result of the report.

6 A statement under subsection (4) may be combined with a statement under section 2E(4) or 2G(3).

7 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations amend this section to specify a different person to carry out the assessing, reviewing and reporting functions conferred.

8 Regulations under this section must specify a public body or office-holder who is independent of the Scottish Ministers.

9 Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative procedure.

10 The duty in subsection (1)(b) does not apply in respect of the Scottish Ministers’ first exercise of the power under section 2C(1) to set the targets required by subsection (2) of that section.

2I Application of this Part

This Part applies only in relation to the exercise of functions by public bodies or office-holders in or as regards Scotland which do not relate to reserved matters.

5 In section 53 (orders and regulations: general), in subsection (4), after “sections” insert “2C, 2F, 2H,”.

^I22 Reports on compliance with biodiversity duty¶

1 The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 is modified as follows.

2 For section 2A, substitute—

2A Reports on compliance with biodiversity duty

1 Each specified public body or office-holder must prepare and publish a biodiversity report in relation to each specified period.

2 A biodiversity report is a report on the actions taken by the specified public body or office-holder in pursuance of its duty under section 1 during the period to which the report relates.

3 A report under this section—

a is to be prepared in such form and published in such manner as the public body or office-holder thinks fit,

b may be incorporated within another report prepared or published by the body.

4 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make provision about biodiversity reports including, in particular, provision specifying—

a the public bodies and office-holders which are required to prepare and publish a biodiversity report under this section,

b the periods in relation to which reports are to relate,

c particular information that must be included in a biodiversity report.

5 A period specified under subsection (4)(b)—

a may be specified by reference to a specific date or by reference to the frequency with which biodiversity reports are to be prepared and published, but

b must require a report to be published by a specified public body or office-holder at least once every 3 years.

6 In this section, “specified” means specified in the regulations made under subsection (4).

Part 2 National parks¶

Modification of aims and purposes of National Parks¶

^I33 Aims of National Parks¶

1 The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is modified as follows.

2 For section 1 (the National Park aims), substitute—

1 The National Park aims

1 In this Act, references to the National Park aims are to the following aims in relation to the area of a National Park—

a to conserve and enhance the area’s natural and cultural heritage,

b to promote sustainable management and use of the area’s natural resources,

c to promote public understanding and enjoyment of the area’s natural and cultural heritage, and

d to promote sustainable economic, social and cultural development of the area’s communities.

2 Without limit to the generality of subsection (1), those aims include—

a restoring and regenerating biodiversity in the area,

b mitigating and adapting to climate change,

c supporting access to and within the area,

d encouraging recreation in the area,

e encouraging sustainable and regenerative agriculture,

f promoting sustainable tourism and visitor management, and

g promoting sustainable economic growth and development activity which—

i improves the health and wellbeing of individuals who visit, live and work in the area, and

ii supports the prosperity of communities in the area, including in relation to the provision of housing for people to live and work in the area.

3 The Scottish Ministers, a National Park authority, a local authority and any other public body or office-holder must, in exercising functions so far as affecting a National Park (and only in relation to functions exercisable in or as regards Scotland which do not relate to reserved matters), have regard to the National Park aims set out in subsection (1).

4 For the purposes of this section, a reference to any other public body or office-holder is a reference to any other—

a Scottish public authority, and

b so far as not falling within paragraph (a), cross-border public authority (but only in relation to functions exercisable in or as regards Scotland which do not relate to reserved matters).

3 In section 9(6) (general purpose and functions of National Park authority), for “1(a)” in each place it occurs substitute “1(1)(a)”.

4 In section 31(1) (application in relation to marine areas), for “1(d)” substitute “1(1)(d)”.

5 In paragraph 3 of schedule 3, for “special qualities of the National Park” substitute “National Park area’s natural and cultural heritage”.

Policy statement on National Parks¶

^I44 Policy statement on National Parks¶

1 The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is modified as follows.

2 After section 1 (the National Park aims), insert—

National Park proposals¶

^I55 Advice before making National Park proposals¶

1 The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is modified as follows.

2 In section 2, after subsection (2) insert—

3 After section 2, insert—

2A Advice before making a National Park proposal

1 Before making a National Park proposal, the Scottish Ministers must seek expert advice on the matters set out in subsection (2) from such persons as the Scottish Ministers consider to have expertise relevant to the National Park aims and the conditions for designation set out in section 2(2).

2 The matters are, in relation to the National Park aims and conditions for designation—

a the management needs of the area,

b whether designation as a National Park could—

i improve the management of the area, and

ii help to meet the special needs of the area, and

c such other matters relating to the designation of a National Park as the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate.

3 The Scottish Ministers must, as soon as reasonably practicable after the expert advice has been provided, lay a copy of the advice before the Scottish Parliament.

Reports on National Park proposals¶

^I66 Choice of reporter for National Park proposals¶

1 Section 3 of the National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 (reports on National Park proposals) is modified as follows.

2 For subsection (1), substitute—

3 In subsection (2)(e), for “the requirement may specify” substitute “may be specified in the appointment”.

4 In subsection (3)—

a for “impose a requirement” substitute “make an appointment”,

b for “person who is to provide the report (the “reporter”)” substitute “reporter”.

5 For subsection (4), substitute—

6 In subsection (5)—

a in paragraph (a), for “requirement” substitute “appointment”,

b in paragraph (b), for “requirement” substitute “appointment”.

7 In subsection (7), for “requirement” substitute “appointment”.

8 In subsection (9)(a), for “requirement” substitute “appointment”.

Definitions for the National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000¶

^I77 Definitions for the National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000¶

1 Section 35 of the National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 (interpretation) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (1)—

a before the definition of “community council”, insert—

b after the definition of “community council”, insert—

Duties in respect of National Parks¶

^I88 Duty to facilitate implementation of National Park Plans¶

1 Section 14 of the National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 (duty to have regard to National Park Plans) is modified as follows.

2 The existing text becomes subsection (1).

3 In that subsection, for “have regard to” substitute “facilitate the implementation of”.

4 After that subsection, insert—

5 The section title becomes “Duty to facilitate implementation of National Park Plans”.

National Park authorities as local authorities for access rights¶

^I99 Meaning of local authority for the purpose of access rights¶

1 Section 32 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 (interpretation of Part 1) is modified in accordance with subsection (2).

2 In the definition of “local authority”—

a the “and” immediately following paragraph (a) is repealed,

b after paragraph (a), insert—

3 The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is modified in accordance with subsections (4) and (5).

4 In section 7 (designation orders), in subsection (1)—

a the “and” immediately following paragraph (c) is repealed,

b after paragraph (c), insert—

5 In section 30 (modification and revocation of designation orders), in subsection (2)(a)(iii), after “section 7(1)(c)” insert “, (ca)”.

Enforcement of National Park byelaws¶

^I1010 Power to make regulations for the issuing of fixed penalty notices¶

1 The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is modified as follows.

2 After section 26, insert—

Enforcement of National Park byelaws

26A Fixed penalty notices for National Park byelaw offences

1 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make provision for and in connection with the issuing of fixed penalty notices for offences against National Park byelaws made under paragraph 8 of schedule 2 and specified under subsection (2)(a).

2 Regulations under this section must specify—

a the byelaws in relation to which fixed penalty notices may be issued, and

b the persons who may issue fixed penalty notices.

3 The persons who may be specified for the purposes of subsection (2)(b) are—

a the persons, or categories of persons, that a National Park authority has authorised in writing for the purpose of issuing fixed penalty notices, and

b such other persons, or categories of persons, as the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate.

4 A fixed penalty notice provided for in regulations under this section must state—

a the byelaw to which it relates,

b particulars of the circumstances alleged to constitute the offence,

c the date on which the fixed penalty notice is issued,

d the amount of the fixed penalty,

e the person to whom payment may be made and the person’s address,

f the payment period,

g the method by which payment may be made,

h the effect of paying the fixed penalty within the payment period and the consequences of not paying the fixed penalty within that period,

i details of any procedure for challenging or appealing the fixed penalty notice.

5 Regulations under this section may, in particular, include provision—

a specifying the form and content of a fixed penalty notice,

b specifying how a person or category of persons may be authorised to issue fixed penalty notices,

c conferring powers to enter land (other than dwelling-houses) for or in connection with the issuing of a fixed penalty notice,

d about the circumstances in which fixed penalty notices may or may not be issued (including any test which must be satisfied before a person authorised to issue such notices may do so),

e about the withdrawal of fixed penalty notices including when it is permissible, the effects of such withdrawal and the procedure by which the withdrawal is effected,

f specifying the amount of the fixed penalty which is to apply to an offence (including different amounts for different purposes), being not more than level 2 on the standard scale,

g specifying the person to whom payment may be made (who need not be the person who issued the fixed penalty notice),

h specifying the payment period,

i about the circumstances in which a person to whom a fixed penalty notice is issued may decline the notice or otherwise object to or challenge it (including the period within which the person may do so and the procedure for doing so),

j about the effects of failing to decline or otherwise object to or challenge a fixed penalty notice before the end of the period specified for doing so (including that such failure is deemed to be acceptance of the notice),

k conferring on the person who issued the fixed penalty notice or the person to whom payment may be made the power to extend the payment period in any particular case if the person considers it appropriate to do so,

l about the methods by which fixed penalties may be paid,

m for the amount of a fixed penalty to be discounted or increased by an amount or percentage in circumstances specified by the regulations (but not so as to make the amount payable more than level 2 on the standard scale),

n specifying the effect of paying a fixed penalty within the payment period (for example, that no proceedings may be brought in respect of the offence to which the fixed penalty notice relates),

o about the consequences of not paying a fixed penalty within the payment period (including the ability to refer offences for prosecution and how liability to pay the penalty may be enforced),

p for additional procedure relating to fixed penalty notices (for example to make provision for hearings or appeals),

q for the destination of funds, the keeping of accounts and the preparation and publication of statements of account relating to fixed penalties provided for under the regulations,

r specifying persons who may prepare and publish guidance on issuing fixed penalty notices (including when prosecution is more appropriate),

s creating offences relating to—

i the obstruction of a person who is exercising functions in relation to fixed penalty notices,

ii a failure to provide information requested in connection with a fixed penalty notice.

6 The maximum penalty that may be provided for in regulations under this section creating an offence is, on summary conviction, a fine not exceeding level 2 on the standard scale.

7 Before making regulations under this section, the Scottish Ministers must consult such persons as they consider to be interested in or affected by the issuing of fixed penalty notices for National Park byelaw offences.

8 Subsection (9) applies where the Scottish Ministers are considering making regulations to specify byelaws in relation to which fixed penalty notices may be issued.

9 Where this subsection applies, the Scottish Ministers may—

a delegate their duty to consult under subsection (7) to the National Park authority which made (or proposes to make) the byelaw, but only insofar as it relates to which byelaws (or proposed byelaws) are to be specified, and

b require the National Park authority to provide them with a report on the consultation in such terms as they may specify when making the delegation.

10 Delegation of a function under subsection (9) does not affect the Scottish Ministers’ ability to exercise that function.

11 Regulations under this section—

a are subject to the negative procedure if the regulations are only—

i removing a reference to a byelaw which has been revoked, or

ii specifying, for the purpose of subsection (2)(a), a byelaw which has been made to replace a byelaw (with or without modification) which was previously specified and which has substantially the same effect,

b are otherwise subject to the affirmative procedure.

12 Regulations under this section may also make—

a incidental, supplemental, consequential, transitional, transitory or saving provision that the Scottish Ministers think necessary or expedient,

b different provision for different purposes.

13 In this section—

“fixed penalty notice” means a notice specifying a sum of money that may or must be paid as an alternative to prosecution for an offence,
“payment period” means the period of time within which a fixed penalty may or must be paid.

Part 3 Deer management¶

Aims and purposes of deer management¶

^I1111 Aims and purposes of deer management¶

1 In the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996 (in this Part referred to as “the 1996 Act”), section 1 (the Deer Commission for Scotland) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (1), for paragraph (a), substitute—

3 In subsection (1A), after “the” insert “aims, purposes and”,

4 In subsection (2)—

a in paragraph (a), after “heritage” insert “and environment”,

b the “and” immediately following paragraph (d) is repealed,

c after paragraph (e), insert “and

5 The section title becomes “Aims and purposes of deer management”.

Membership of advisory panels¶

^I1212 Scottish Natural Heritage representation on advisory panels¶

1 Section 4 of the 1996 Act (appointment of panels) is modified as follows.

2 For subsections (4) and (5) substitute—

Code of practice on deer management¶

^I1313 Code of practice on deer management¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 5A (code of practice on deer management), in subsection (1), after “management” insert “and the circumstances in which it may intervene in the management or control of deer”.

3 In section 5B (review of compliance with code of practice on deer management)—

a in subsection (1), for “must, before the expiry of the period mentioned in subsection (4),” substitute “may, at any time,”,

b after subsection (1), insert—

c after subsection (1A) insert—

d for subsection (4), substitute—

Deer management plans, control agreements and control schemes¶

^I1414 Grounds for intervention¶

1 After section 6 of the 1996 Act, insert—

6ZA Grounds for intervention: damage by deer

1 This section applies if SNH is satisfied that the grounds in both subsections (2) and (3) are met.

2 This ground is met if, in relation to a particular area of land—

a deer or steps taken or not taken for the purposes of deer management have caused, are causing, or are likely to cause—

i damage to woodland, to agricultural production, including any crops or foodstuffs, to the welfare of deer or, whether directly or indirectly, to the natural heritage or environment generally,

ii damage to public interests of a social, economic or environmental nature, or

iii injury to livestock, whether by serious overgrazing of pastures, competing with any such livestock for supplementary feeding, or otherwise, or

b deer have become a danger or a potential danger to public safety.

3 This ground is met if measures require to be taken in relation to the management of deer—

a for the prevention of further such damage or injury,

b for the remedying of such damage, or

c for the prevention of such danger or potential danger.

6ZB Grounds for intervention: nature restoration

1 This section applies if SNH is satisfied that the ground in subsection (2) is met.

2 This ground is met if, in relation to a particular area of land, deer or steps taken or not taken for the purposes of deer management are, or are likely to, prevent or reduce the effectiveness of work, a project or natural process that—

a preserves, protects, restores, enhances or otherwise improves the natural heritage or environment, and

b is for, or contributes to, a relevant target, strategy or plan relating to the environment, climate change or biodiversity that applies in Scotland.

3 For the purpose of subsection (2)—

a a target is relevant if it is set by, under, or in pursuance of an enactment,

b a strategy or plan is relevant if—

i it is required by an enactment, or

ii it is published by the Scottish Ministers or a public body with functions relating to natural heritage or the environment.

2 In section 45 (interpretation) of the 1996 Act, in subsection (1), after the definition of “deer proof barrier” insert—

^I1515 Deer management plans¶

For section 6A of the 1996 Act substitute—

6A Deer management plans

1 If section 6ZA or 6ZB applies, SNH may give notice to the relevant owners and occupiers of a particular area of land requiring those owners or occupiers to prepare and submit a deer management plan to SNH.

2 A deer management plan is a plan relating to the management of deer on a particular area of land that sets out—

a the measures that the relevant owners and occupiers of the land consider should be taken in relation to the management of deer on the land,

b the time limit for taking those measures,

c who is to take those measures, and

d any other matter which appears to SNH to be necessary in the circumstances.

3 A notice under subsection (1) must set out—

a why SNH is satisfied that a deer management plan is required, and

b any aim or outcome that it believes it is necessary for the plan to achieve.

4 A deer management plan is to be submitted to SNH—

a by such date, which must not be earlier than 3 months after the date on which notice under subsection (1) was given, as SNH specifies in the notice, or

b by such later date as SNH may specify.

5 But a deer management plan may be amended until SNH decides to approve or reject it.

6 SNH may approve a deer management plan (with or without modifications) or reject it.

7 Before approving a deer management plan with modifications, SNH must consult the relevant owners and occupiers on the proposed modifications.

8 In this section and section 7, in relation to an area of land, a reference to the “relevant owners and occupiers” is a reference to any owner or occupier of land that SNH considers to have such sufficient interest in, or control over the use of, the land as to necessitate involvement in deer management measures.

^I1616 Control agreements¶

1 Section 7 of the 1996 Act (control agreements) is modified as follows.

2 For subsections (1) and (2), substitute—

3 In subsection (3), the words “, having had regard to the code of practice on deer management,” are repealed.

4 For subsection (4), substitute—

5 In subsection (4B)—

a in paragraph (a)(i), for “6A(5)” substitute “6A(4)”,

b in paragraph (b), for “the conditions referred to in section 6A(1) continue to be met” substitute “section 6ZA or 6ZB still applies”.

6 In subsection (5)—

a in the opening words, for the words from “Where” to “such” substitute “A”,

b the closing words are repealed.

7 After subsection (5), insert—

8 After subsection (7), insert—

^I1717 Right to request action where deer are not being managed¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 After section 7 (control agreements) insert—

7A Right to request action where deer are not being managed

1 A person may request SNH to exercise its functions under section 6A or 7 if the person—

a believes that the grounds in section 6ZA(2) and (3) are met, and

b is, or is likely to be, directly affected by damage, injury, or danger of the type described in section 6ZA(2).

2 A request under subsection (1) must include reasons for the belief that the grounds in section 6ZA(2) and (3) are met.

3 The Scottish Ministers may, by regulations, modify subsection (2) to add, remove or adjust the information which is to be included in a request under subsection (1).

4 SNH must, following a request under subsection (1)—

a decide whether it is satisfied that the grounds in section 6ZA(2) and (3) are met,

b if it decides that the grounds are met, decide whether to exercise its functions under section 6A or 7, and

c inform the person who made the request of its decisions and the action, if any, SNH proposes to take.

5 Regulations under subsection (3) are subject to the affirmative procedure

3 In section 47 (order, regulations etc.), in subsection (1), for “section” substitute “sections 7A(3) and”.

^I1818 Control schemes¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 8 (control schemes)—

a in subsection (A1), in paragraph (b), for “required” substitute “enabled”,

b in subsection (1)—

i the words “, having had regard to the code of practice on deer management,” are repealed,

ii for “for the purposes mentioned in subsection (1) or, as the case may be,” substitute “in connection with the grounds listed in section 6ZA or 6ZB or, as the case may be, circumstances mentioned in”,

c subsection (2) is repealed,

d for subsection (4), substitute—

3 For schedule 2 (provision as to control schemes), substitute—

Schedule 2

Provisions as to control schemes

(introduced by section 8(6))

Part 1 Application and interpretation

Application and interpretation

1 This schedule applies where SNH decides to make, vary or revoke a control scheme.

2 In this schedule—

a a reference to “the proposal” is a reference to the proposal to make, vary or, as the case may be, revoke a control scheme,

b “register”, in relation to a control scheme or the variation or revocation of such a scheme, means register in the Land Register of Scotland or (as the case may be) record in the General Register of Sasines, and “registered” and “registration” are to be construed accordingly,

c a “relevant person” is—

i an owner or occupier for the time being of land upon whom a control scheme (or a variation of it) proposes to impose a requirement, and

ii where a control scheme is in place, an owner or occupier for the time being of land upon whom the control scheme imposes a requirement, and

iii an owner or occupier for the time being of land upon whom no requirement is (or is proposed to be) imposed under a control scheme but who, in the opinion of SNH, is (or is likely to be) significantly affected by the proposal.

Part 2 Procedure for making, varying and revoking control schemes

Notice of the proposal

1 SNH must—

a give each relevant person a notice which—

i provides details of the proposal (including a copy of the draft control scheme or, as the case may be, the control scheme as it is proposed to be varied),

ii informs the person that objections to the proposal or any part of it may be made to the Scottish Ministers within the period of 28 days beginning with the date of service of the notice, and

b publish in such manner as SNH thinks fit a notice—

i providing details of the proposal, including in particular the control area,

ii stating the date of first publication of the notice,

iii specifying a place where a copy of the control scheme and the map referred to in it may be inspected at all reasonable hours (which may be a website),

iv stating that objections to the proposal or any part of it may be made by relevant persons to the Scottish Ministers within the period of 28 days beginning with the date of first publication of the notice.

2 If the periods for objections under sub-paragraph (1)(a)(ii) and (b)(iv) are different, objections may be made until the expiry of the later period.

4 Notices under paragraph 3(1) must also provide details of the manner in which objections are to be made to the Scottish Ministers.

Objections

5 The Scottish Ministers must, in respect of each objection received (and not withdrawn), take the following steps—

Step 1
Determine whether the objection relates to—
1. compliance with the process followed by SNH up to that point (“a procedural objection”), or
2. the substantive content of the scheme (a “substantive objection”).
Step 2

In respect of any substantive objection in respect of which they would like advice, refer the objection to a person (or persons) appointed under paragraph 12.
Step 3

Consider each procedural objection and each substantive objection which they are not referring to a person (or persons) appointed under paragraph 12.
Step 4

Following the receipt of advice in respect of a substantive objection, consider the objection having regard to the advice.

6 The Scottish Ministers may (notwithstanding paragraph 5)—

a in a case where an objection relates to both the process followed by SNH and to the substantive content of a scheme, treat the procedural matters and substantive matters as if they were separate objections,

b require a person who has made an objection to state in writing the grounds for it before they consider the objection,

c disregard an objection if—

i it is made after the expiry of the period for objections,

ii does not comply with the manner in which objections are to be made (as set out in the notice under paragraph 3(1)), or

iii they are satisfied that it is frivolous or vexatious.

Confirmation or refusal of proposal

7 Once all objections (if any) have been considered, the Scottish Ministers may—

a confirm the proposal—

i as proposed, or

ii subject to paragraph 11, with such modifications as they consider appropriate, or

b reject the proposal.

8 The Scottish Ministers must confirm or reject the proposal under paragraph 7 no later than 6 months after the expiry of the period mentioned in paragraph 3(b)(iv).

9 The Scottish Ministers may give notice to SNH and any relevant person extending the period mentioned in paragraph 8.

10 Any notice given under paragraph 9 must set out—

a the Scottish Ministers’ reasons for extending the period,

b an indicative date by which the Scottish Ministers will reach a decision under paragraph 7.

11 Ministerial modifications to proposal

The Scottish Ministers may not confirm a proposal with modifications unless—

a each relevant person has been given a notice which—

i provides detail of the proposed modification, and

ii informs the person that objections to it may be made to the Scottish Ministers within the period of 14 days beginning with the date of service of the notice, and

b either—

i each relevant person has consented to the modification, or

ii the period for objections has elapsed and the Scottish Ministers have considered any objections (in accordance with paragraph 5).

12 Appointment of experts to consider objections

1 The Scottish Ministers may, for the purpose of providing them with advice—

a on a particular substantive objection or objections on a particular scheme, appoint one or more persons that they consider to have expertise relevant to the objection or scheme,

b on substantive objections for several schemes, appoint one or more persons that they consider to have relevant expertise.

2 Before making an appointment under sub-paragraph (1), the Scottish Ministers must consult SNH and such other persons as they consider appropriate.

3 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make further provision about the terms and conditions of a person appointed to provide advice.

Part 3 Making and validity of control schemes etc.

13 Making and registration of control scheme, variation or revocation

As soon as practicable after confirmation of a proposal, SNH is to—

a give notice to all relevant persons—

i that the proposal has been confirmed, and

ii indicating the date by which a relevant person falling within paragraph 2(c)(i) or (ii) must appeal,

b publish the control scheme, the scheme as varied or, as the case may be, a notice that the scheme has been revoked, in such manner as it thinks fit (which may be on its website),

c register the control scheme, the variation or, as the case may be, a notice of revocation in respect of the titles to the land comprising the control area.

14 Validity and appeals

1 Subject to this paragraph, a control scheme or any variation or revocation of such a scheme is not to be questioned in any proceedings.

2 A relevant person falling within paragraph 2(c)(i) or (ii) who is aggrieved by—

a a decision of the Scottish Ministers to confirm the making, variation or revocation of a control scheme, or

b the terms or conditions of such a scheme,

may appeal to the Scottish Land Court.

3 An appeal under sub-paragraph (2) must be lodged no later than 28 days after the date of service of the notice referred to in paragraph 13(a).

4 The Scottish Land Court must determine an appeal under sub-paragraph (2) on the merits rather than by way of review and may do so by—

a affirming the control scheme,

b directing SNH and the Scottish Ministers to revoke the scheme,

c making such other order as it thinks fit.

^I1919 Recovery of costs and expenses¶

For section 9 of the 1996 Act (recovery of expenses incurred in fulfilment of control scheme), substitute—

9 Recovery of SNH costs and expenses

1 SNH may recover any expenses incurred by it in connection with the registration of—

a a control scheme,

b a variation of a control scheme,

c a revocation of a control scheme,

from all or any of the owners and occupiers concerned.

2 Before taking steps to recover expenses from an owner or occupier under subsection (1), SNH must provide the owner or occupier with a statement detailing the registration fees and any other relevant expenses incurred in connection with registration.

3 If expenses incurred by SNH in the performance of its duty under section 8(8) exceed the amount of the proceeds of the sale of any deer killed or taken in pursuance of that performance, it must recover the excess amount from the owner or occupier concerned.

4 If expenses incurred by SNH in the performance of its duty under section 10(4) exceed the amount of the proceeds of the sale of any deer killed or taken in pursuance of that performance, it may recover the excess amount from the owner or occupier concerned.

5 Before taking steps to recover expenses from an owner or occupier under subsection (3) or (4), SNH must provide the owner or occupier concerned with a statement detailing—

a the expenses incurred by it in the performance of its duty,

b the amount received in respect of the sale of deer, and

c the amount recoverable from the owner or occupier.

6 An owner or occupier who is aggrieved by a statement provided under subsection (2) or (5) may, within the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the statement was provided, appeal to the Scottish Land Court.

7 The Scottish Land Court may, if it appears to it to be equitable to do so, vary the amount recoverable from the appellant.

8 SNH may, with the approval of the Scottish Ministers, waive its right to any expenses relating to the performance of its duty under section 8(8) which would otherwise be recoverable under subsection (3).

9 In this section, “registration” means, in relation to a control scheme or the variation or revocation of such a scheme, registration in the Land Register or, as the case may be, recording in the General Register of Sasines.

^I2020 Limitation of criminal liability¶

1 Section 14 of the 1996 Act (limitation of criminal liability) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (2), after “pursuance of” insert “a control agreement, a control scheme or”.

3 For subsection (3), substitute—

4 In subsection (4), for “and (3)(a)” substitute “to (3A)”.

Preventing or stopping damage by deer¶

^I2121 Measures to prevent damage by deer¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 10 (emergency measures to prevent damage by deer)—

a in subsection (1)—

i in paragraph (a)(i), after “to” where it first occurs insert “the natural heritage, environment,”,

ii paragraph (b) is repealed,

b in subsection (4), after “opinion is” insert “fit and”.

3 Section 11 (application of section 10 in relation to the natural heritage) is repealed.

^I2222 Action to prevent or stop harm to persons¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 After section 25, insert—

3 In section 5(5) (close seasons), after “25”, insert “and 25A”.

4 In section 17 (unlawful killing, taking and injuring of deer)—

a in subsection (1), for “section 25” substitute “sections 25 and 25A”,

b in subsection (2), for “section 25” substitute “sections 25 and 25A”,

c in subsection (3), for “section 25” substitute “sections 25 and 25A”.

5 In section 17A(5) (register of persons competent to shoot deer), for “purpose mentioned in section 25” substitute “purposes mentioned in sections 25 and 25A”.

6 In section 18(1) (taking or killing at night), after “25” insert “and 25A”.

National deer management and venison plan¶

^I2323 National deer management and venison plan¶

After section 40A of the 1996 Act, insert—

National deer management and venison plan

40B National deer management and venison plan

1 The Scottish Ministers must, within the period of 5 years beginning with the day on which this section comes into force, prepare a plan about the management of deer and the promotion of venison in Scotland.

2 The plan prepared under subsection (1) must include—

a a statement of priorities in relation to deer management in Scotland,

b the measures and actions that the Scottish Ministers intend to take in relation to—

i the management of deer found in Scotland’s lowland areas (as defined in the plan),

ii current and emerging deer management concerns, including any species specific concerns,

iii the venison industry, key venison facilities and venison supply chains,

iv identifying financial support for deer management, including how it can be most efficiently used,

c data which the Scottish Ministers consider relevant to the management of deer, including deer and urban deer population information, and national spread information,

d any other matter relating to deer management or promotion of venison that the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate.

3 The Scottish Ministers must review and update the plan—

a before the end of the period of 10 years beginning with the date on which the first plan was published under subsection (5), and

b before the end of each subsequent period of 10 years.

4 When preparing a plan under subsection (1), or reviewing and updating a plan under subsection (3), the Scottish Ministers must consult—

a SNH,

b such persons as they consider represent the interests of—

i persons undertaking deer management,

ii the venison industry, and

iii the environmental and nature restoration sector, and

c such other persons as they consider appropriate.

5 The Scottish Ministers must, as soon as reasonably practicable after preparing a plan under subsection (1), or reviewing and updating a plan under subsection (3)—

a lay the plan before the Scottish Parliament, and

b publish the plan.

6 In this section, “venison” means any part of the carcase of a deer which is edible by humans.

7 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations modify subsection (2) to add, adjust or remove information that must be included in a plan.

8 Regulations under subsection (7) are subject to the affirmative procedure.

^I2424 National deer management and venison plan: matters which may be considered¶

After section 40B of the 1996 Act, insert—

^I2525 National deer management and venison plan: initial consideration of matters relating to venison¶

After section 40C of the 1996 Act, insert—

SNH investigatory powers¶

^I2626 Power to enter on land¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 7 (control agreements), after subsection (4B) insert—

3 In section 15 (power to enter on land)—

a in subsection (2), in paragraph (a), for “fourteen” substitute “5 working”,

b after subsection (2), insert—

c in subsection (2A), for “and (2)” substitute “, (2) and (2ZA)”,

d in subsection (3), for paragraph (a) substitute—

e after subsection (3) insert—

4 In section 45, (interpretation), in subsection (1)—

a the “and” immediately following the definition of “vehicle” is repealed,

b after the definition of “woodland”, insert—

^I2727 Power to require information and documents¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 After section 15, insert—

15A Power to require information and documents

1 SNH may, for the purpose of the exercise of its functions under section 7 or 8 (including being satisfied as to any ground described in section 6ZA or 6ZB), by notice require a person to whom subsection (2) applies to—

a provide any information, or

b produce any document,

that SNH believes is or may be relevant to its exercise of those functions.

2 This subsection applies to a person who is, or whom SNH reasonably believes to be, an owner or occupier of land within an area that is, or may become, a control area.

3 A notice given under this section must—

a specify or describe the information or document to be provided or produced, and

b inform the person that failure to comply may lead to SNH exercising a power of entry under section 15.

4 Unless otherwise specified in the notice, it is sufficient for a person to provide a copy of any information required to be provided or document required to be produced.

5 Where—

a information required to be provided under subsection (1) is recorded electronically, or

b a document required to be produced under that subsection contains information recorded electronically,

the power under that subsection includes power to require the production of a copy of the information or document in a form in which it is visible and legible.

6 The information or document must be provided or produced—

a within the period of 10 working days beginning with the day on which the notice was given, or

b by such later date as SNH may agree with the person.

7 A person is not required, for the purposes of this section, to provide any document, record or other information which that person could not be compelled to give or to produce in civil proceedings before the Court of Session.

8 A person who has been given notice under subsection (1) commits an offence if the person knowingly or recklessly provides information or produces a document which is false in a material particular.

3 In schedule 3 (penalties), after the entry for section 13(2), insert—

^I2828 Giving notices electronically¶

1 Section 16 of the 1996 Act (service of notices) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (1A), the words “of sections 10(7) and (8), 15(2)(a), 40(1) and 40A(1)” are repealed.

Authorisations for particular activities¶

^I2929 Authorisation for taking or killing deer during close seasons¶

1 Section 5 of the 1996 Act (close seasons) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (5)—

a the words “14 and” are repealed,

b for “(6) and (7)” substitute “(6) to (7)”.

3 For subsection (6) substitute—

6 Subject to section 37 of this Act, SNH may authorise the owner or occupier of any land or any person nominated in writing by the owner or occupier to take or kill, and to sell or otherwise dispose of, any deer found on that land during the period specified in relation to that sex and species of deer in an order under subsection (1).

6A SNH may not grant an authorisation under subsection (6) unless it is satisfied that—

a a ground set out in section 6ZA(2) (grounds for intervention: damage by deer) or 6ZB(2) (grounds for intervention: nature restoration) is met, and

b there are no other adequate means of control which might reasonably be adopted in the circumstances.

6B Subsections (6) and (6A) apply notwithstanding anything contained in any agreement between an occupier of the land and the owner.

4 Subsection (8) is repealed.

^I3030 Authorisation for taking or killing deer at night¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 18 (taking or killing at night)—

a in subsection (1), for “subsection (2)” substitute “subsections (2) to (5)”,

b for subsection (2), substitute—

2 Subject to section 37 of this Act, SNH may authorise the owner or occupier of any land or any person nominated in writing by the owner or occupier to take or kill, and to sell or otherwise dispose of, any deer found on that land during the period specified in subsection (1).

3 A person who is authorised under subsection (2) may only take or kill deer during the period specified in subsection (1) if the person is satisfied that a ground set out in section 6ZA(2) (grounds for intervention: damage by deer) or 6ZB(2) (grounds for intervention: nature restoration) is met.

4 Subsections (2) and (3) apply notwithstanding anything contained in any agreement between an occupier of the land and the owner.

5 Subject to section 37 of this Act, SNH may, for any scientific purpose, authorise any person to take or kill deer during the period specified in subsection (1).

3 In section 45(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “animal foodstuffs”, for “purposes of sections 18(2) and” substitute “purpose of section”.

^I3131 Authorisation for use of vehicles to drive deer¶

1 Section 19 of the 1996 Act (use of vehicles to drive deer) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (2)—

a after “owner”, insert “or occupier”,

b for “him”, substitute “the owner or occupier”.

^I3232 Offence of shooting deer with a shotgun¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 After section 17, insert—

17ZA Use of shotguns

1 Subject to sections 25 and 25A of this Act and to subsections (2) and (3), a person who shoots a deer with a shotgun commits an offence.

2 Subject to section 37 of this Act, SNH may authorise an owner or occupier of any land or any person nominated in writing by the owner or occupier to shoot any deer found on that land with a shotgun.

3 SNH may not grant an authorisation under subsection (2) unless it is satisfied that—

a a ground set out in section 6ZA(2) (grounds for intervention: damage by deer) or 6ZB(2) (grounds for intervention: nature restoration) is met, and

b there are no other adequate means of control which might reasonably be adopted in the circumstances.

4 Subsections (2) and (3) apply notwithstanding anything contained in any agreement between an occupier of the land and the owner.

5 Except to the extent provided in this section, nothing in this section otherwise limits the power to make orders under section 21.

3 In section 31(4) (powers of court on conviction for offences), after “(3),” insert “17ZA(1),”.

4 In section 37(1) (restrictions on granting of certain authorisations), after “(7),” insert “17ZA(1),”.

5 In section 45 (interpretation)—

a in subsection (1), after the definition of “shoot”, insert—

b after subsection (2), insert—

6 In schedule 3 (penalties), after the entry relating to 17(3), insert—

^I3333 Register of authorised persons¶

1 Section 17A of the 1996 Act (register of persons competent to shoot deer) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (1)—

a in paragraph (a), for “competent to shoot deer in Scotland” substitute “who are (either or both)—

b in paragraph (c), for “sections 26(2)(d) and 37(1)” substitute “sections 26(4)(d) and 26ZA(3)”.

3 In subsection (2)(a)—

a in sub-paragraph (iii), after “is” insert “fit and”,

b in sub-paragraph (x), for “the” substitute “any additional”,

c in sub-paragraph (xiv)—

i after “16,” insert “17ZA,”,

ii after “18,” insert “19,”,

iii after “26” insert “, 26ZA”.

4 In subsection (7)—

a in paragraph (a), after “been” insert “taken or”,

b in paragraph (b)(ii)—

i after “be” insert “taken or”,

ii for “in the following year” substitute “for a period not exceeding five years”.

5 After subsection (7), insert—

6 The cross heading becomes “Register of authorised persons”.

7 The heading of the section becomes “Register of authorised persons”.

^I3434 Repeal of obligation to carry out competence review¶

Section 17B of the 1996 Act is repealed.

^I3535 Requirement to be fit and competent for certain authorisations¶

1 Section 37 of the 1996 Act (restrictions on granting of certain authorisations) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (1)—

a the words “Except as mentioned in subsection (1A) below,” are repealed,

b after “18(2)” insert “or (5)”.

3 For subsection (1A), substitute—

4 In subsection (3), after “18(2)” insert “or (5)”.

^I3636 Repeal of saving of right to take deer on land¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 18(1) (taking or killing at night), the words “and 41(2)” are repealed.

3 In section 19(1) (use of vehicles to drive deer), the words “section 41(2) of this Act and to” is repealed.

4 In section 20(1) (other offences connected with moving vehicles), for “sections 25 and 41(2)” substitute “section 25”.

5 In section 41 (savings for certain rights), subsection (2) is repealed.

^I3737 Right of occupier or grazings committee to prevent damage by deer¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 5A (code of practice on deer management), in subsection (2), after paragraph (c) insert—

3 In section 17 (unlawful killing, taking and injuring of deer), after subsection (3) insert—

4 For section 26 (right of occupier in respect of deer causing damage to crops etc. on certain ground), substitute—

26 Right of occupier to prevent damage by deer

1 An occupier of any agricultural land or woodland, or a person mentioned in subsection (4) authorised in writing by the occupier, may take or kill, and sell or otherwise dispose of, any deer found on the land or woodland if the occupier has reasonable grounds to believe that the taking or killing of deer is necessary to prevent—

a damage—

i to agricultural production (including any crops or human or animal foodstuffs) on the land,

ii to the woodland, or

iii whether directly or indirectly, to the natural heritage or environment generally, or

b injury to livestock kept on the land, whether by serious overgrazing of pastures, competing with any such livestock for supplementary feeding, or otherwise.

2 Subsection (1) applies notwithstanding anything contained in any agreement between an occupier of the land or woodland and the owner.

3 Subsection (1) does not apply during any period fixed by order under section 5(1) (taking, killing or injuring deer in close season) in relation to the sex and species of the deer concerned.

4 The persons referred to in subsection (1) are—

a the owner of the land or woodland,

b the owner’s employees,

c the occupier’s employees, or any other person normally resident, on the land,

d any other person approved in writing by SNH as a fit and competent person to take or kill deer for the purpose referred to in subsection (1).

5 Any authorisation given by an occupier of land to take or kill deer expires—

a at the end of such period as the occupier may specify in it,

b in relation to a person mentioned in paragraphs (b) or (c) of subsection (4), the person ceases to be in the employment of the owner or, as the case may be, the occupier, or ceases to be normally resident on the land,

c in relation to a person mentioned in paragraph (d) of that subsection, when the person ceases to be so approved, or

d if the occupier revokes it.

26ZA Right of grazings committee to prevent damage by deer

1 A person authorised in writing by a grazings committee of any particular common grazing, and who meets the condition mentioned in subsection (3), may take or kill, and sell or otherwise dispose of, any deer found on the common grazing if the committee has reasonable grounds to believe that the taking or killing of deer is necessary to prevent—

a damage—

i to woodland forming part of the common grazing, or

ii whether directly or indirectly, to the natural heritage or environment generally, or

b injury to livestock kept on the common grazing, whether by serious overgrazing of pastures, competing with any such livestock for supplementary feeding, or otherwise.

2 Subsection (1) does not apply during any period fixed by order under section 5(1) (taking, killing or injuring deer in close season) in relation to the sex and species of the deer concerned.

3 The condition referred to in subsection (1) is that the person is approved in writing by SNH as a fit and competent person to take or kill deer for the purpose referred to in that subsection.

4 Any authorisation given by a grazings committee to a person to take or kill deer expires—

a at the end of such period as the committee may specify in it, or

b if the committee revokes it.

26ZB Further provision about exercise of rights to prevent damage by deer

1 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make further provision in connection with the exercise of rights under section 26 and 26ZA.

2 Regulations under this section may, in particular—

a require a person to take specific action (such as to give notice) before the rights may be exercised,

b set out the consequences for failing to comply with any requirements set out in the regulations, which may include—

i disapplying section 26(1) or 26ZA(1),

ii creating offences and penalties in connection with such a failure.

3 Before making regulations under this section, the Scottish Ministers must consult such persons as they consider represent persons likely to be interested in or affected by the regulations.

4 The maximum penalties which may be imposed in respect of an offence created under the regulations are, on summary conviction, a fine of level 4 on the standard scale for each deer in respect of which the offence is committed or 3 months imprisonment or both.

5 Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative procedure.

5 In section 42 (information to be supplied to owner of certain land), for “or 26(2)” substitute “, 26(4) or 26ZA(3)”.

6 In section 47 (orders, regulations etc.), in subsection (1), for “section 21(4)” substitute “sections 21(4) and 26ZB(1)”.

7 In schedule 3 (penalties), after the entry relating to section 17(3), insert—

Stray farmed deer¶

^I3838 Liability for taking or killing stray farmed deer¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 After section 20, insert—

3 After section 26, insert—

4 In schedule 3 (penalties), after the entry relating to section 20(1), insert—

5 In section 43 (application of Act to farmed deer)—

a in subsection (1), for “(4)” substitute “(3A)”,

b after subsection (3), insert—

c subsection (4) is repealed.

6 In section 45 (interpretation)—

a for the definition of “farmed deer”, substitute—

b after the definition of “species”, insert—

Licensing of dealing in venison¶

^I3939 Removal of requirements related to licensing to deal in venison¶

1 The 1996 Act is modified as follows.

2 In section 27(5) (powers of search and seizure), the words “, or under section 36(1) or (4),” are repealed.

3 In section 31 (powers of court on conviction for offences), subsection (5) is repealed.

4 Section 33 (licences to deal in venison) is repealed.

5 Section 34 (records kept by venison dealers) is repealed.

6 Section 35 (reciprocal arrangements) is repealed.

7 Section 36 (offences in connection with venison dealing) is repealed.

8 In section 43(2) (application of Act to farmed deer), paragraph (c) is repealed.

9 In schedule 3 (penalties), the entries in the table relating to section 36 are repealed.

10 The title of Part IV becomes “Enforcement and miscellaneous provisions”.

Review of modifications¶

^I4040 Review of modifications to the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996¶

1 The Scottish Ministers must, within 10 years of the day on which this section comes into force, prepare and publish a report on the operation and effectiveness of the provisions of the 1996 Act which are modified by this Part.

2 The report prepared under subsection (1) must include an assessment of the operation and effectiveness of the provisions of the 1996 Act as modified by this Part against the following objectives—

a protecting and restoring the natural heritage and environment,

b achieving the aims and purposes of deer management set out by section 1 of the 1996 Act, and

c improving standards of welfare for deer.

3 When preparing the report, the Scottish Ministers must consult—

a Scottish Natural Heritage, and

b such other persons as the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate.

4 The report prepared under subsection (1) must include—

a a statement of any action the Scottish Ministers intend to take, and

b where the Scottish Ministers do not intend to take any action, their reasons for not taking action.

5 The Scottish Ministers must lay the report before the Scottish Parliament and, at the same time, send a copy of the report to a committee of the Parliament whose remit includes matters relating to deer management for the time being appointed by virtue of the standing orders of the Parliament.

6 In this section—

“deer” is to be construed in accordance with section 45 of the 1996 Act,
“natural heritage” is to be construed in accordance with section 45(1) of the 1996 Act.

Part 4 Miscellaneous and general¶

Building regulations: swift nest box¶

^I4141 Building regulations: swift nest box¶

The Scottish Ministers must, before the expiry of the period of 12 months beginning with the day on which this section comes into force, make regulations under section 1 of the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 to make provision for the installation of swift nest boxes in such buildings as described in the regulations where reasonably practicable and appropriate.

Marine protection¶

^I4242 Nature conservation marine protected areas: climate adaptation¶

1 The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 is modified as follows.

2 In section 68 (Nature Conservation MPAs: additional requirements relating to designation), in subsection (7)—

a for “may” substitute “must”,

b after fourth “to” insert “climate adaptation and”.

Salmon and freshwater fishing¶

^I4343 Modification of offences and penalties related to fishing¶

1 The Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 2003 is modified as follows.

2 In section 1 (methods of fishing: salmon)—

a in subsection (6)—

i at the beginning, insert “Subject to subsection (7),”,

ii for “level 4 on the standard scale” substitute “the statutory maximum”,

b after subsection (6), insert—

3 In section 2 (methods of fishing: freshwater fish)—

a in subsection (1)—

i after “subsections” insert “(1A),”,

ii for “level 4 on the standard scale” substitute “the statutory maximum”,

b after subsection (1), insert—

4 In section 5 (prohibition against using explosive and other noxious substances for the destruction or taking of fish)—

a in subsection (3)(a)—

i at the beginning, insert “Subject to subsection (4),”,

ii for “the statutory maximum” substitute “£40,000”,

b after subsection (3), insert—

5 In section 6 (fishing for salmon without right or permission)—

a in subsection (1), the words “and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale” are repealed,

b after subsection (1), insert—

6 In section 7 (illegal fishing by two or more persons acting together)—

a the existing text becomes subsection (1),

b in that subsection, in paragraph (a)—

i at the beginning, insert “subject to subsection (2),”,

ii for “the statutory maximum” substitute “£40,000”,

c after that subsection, insert—

7 In section 10 (offences in relation to passage of salmon)—

a in subsection (1)—

i at the beginning, insert “Subject to subsection (1A),”,

ii for “level 4 on the standard scale” substitute “the statutory maximum”,

b after subsection (1), insert—

8 In section 19 (salmon roe), in subsection (1), for “level 3 on the standard scale” substitute “£40,000”.

9 In section 20 (possessing salmon which have been illegally taken, killed or landed), in subsection (2)(a), for “level 3 on the standard scale” substitute “£40,000”.

10 In section 23 (young salmon and spawning beds), in subsection (7), for “level 3 on the standard scale” substitute “£40,000”.

11 In section 33A (unauthorised introduction of fish into inland waters), in subsection (5), for “level 3 on the standard scale” substitute “£40,000”.

12 In section 38 (salmon conservation regulations)—

a in subsection (7), the words “and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale” are repealed,

b after subsection (7), insert—

Report on penalties in sea fisheries legislation¶

^I4444 Report on penalties in sea fisheries legislation¶

1 The Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2013 is modified as follows.

2 After section 60, insert—

Report on penalties

60A Report on penalties in sea fisheries legislation

1 The Scottish Ministers must publish a report on the effectiveness of relevant penalties in ensuring compliance with the sea fisheries legislation—

a within the Scottish enforcement area, and

b by Scottish fishing boats (wherever they are operating).

2 The report must, in particular—

a set out the relevant penalties covered by the report,

b explain why those penalties have been selected,

c assess the effectiveness of those penalties in ensuring compliance with the sea fisheries legislation, and

d identify any changes to the penalties that the Scottish Ministers consider likely to improve compliance with the sea fisheries legislation.

3 The report may include any other matters related to the sea fisheries legislation that the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate.

4 In preparing the report, the Scottish Ministers must consult such persons as they consider appropriate.

5 The Scottish Ministers must—

a publish the report within the period of 2 years beginning with the day on which this section comes into force, and

b before publishing the report, lay the report before the Scottish Parliament.

6 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations modify a penalty in the sea fisheries legislation in connection with a change identified under subsection (2)(d).

7 In this section—

a a “relevant penalty” is a penalty—

i contained in the legislation, and

ii which the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate to review.

b “Scottish enforcement area” and “sea fisheries legislation” are to be construed in accordance with section 53.

3 In section 62(2)(a), at end insert—

Gulls¶

^I4545 Report on gull population¶

1 Scottish Natural Heritage (in this section referred to as “SNH”) must, in respect of each reporting period, prepare and publish a report on the gull population in coastal and urban areas of Scotland.

2 A report under subsection (1) must—

a provide information about the gull population in coastal and urban areas,

b set out (so far as possible) any shift or trend in the distribution of gulls between coastal and urban areas,

c include any other matter relating to the gull population in coastal and urban areas as SNH consider appropriate.

3 In subsection (1), “reporting period” means—

a in the case of the first report, the period of 5 years beginning with the day after Royal Assent,

b each subsequent period of 5 years.

4 In this section, “gull” means gulls of the species—

a black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus),

b common gull (Larus canus),

c great black-backed gull (Larus marinus),

d herring gull (Larus argentatus), and

e lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus).

Scallop shells¶

^I4646 Guidance about scallop shells¶

1 The Scottish Ministers must issue guidance in relation to the by-products conditions and the end-of-waste conditions for scallop shells.

2 The waste regulation authority is to have regard to any guidance issued under this section in relation to the exercise of its functions.

3 Before issuing guidance under this section, the Scottish Ministers must consult—

a the Scottish Environment Protection Agency,

b Food Standards Scotland,

c such other persons as they consider appropriate.

4 The Scottish Ministers must—

a issue guidance under subsection (1) within the period of 1 year beginning with the date this section comes into force, and

b publish any guidance issued.

5 In this section—

a a reference to the by-products conditions is a reference to the conditions listed in regulation 15(3) of the Waste and Agriculture (Legislative Functions) Regulations 2022 (S.S.I. 2022/190),

b a reference to the end-of-waste conditions is a reference to the conditions listed in regulation 16(3) of the Waste and Agriculture (Legislative Functions) Regulations 2022 (S.S.I. 2022/190),

c the waste regulation authority is to be construed in accordance with section 30(1)(b) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990,

d “scallop shells” means the shells of king scallops (Pecten maximus) and queen scallops (Aequipecten opercularis).

Wildlife licensing¶

^I4747 Licensing: protection of mountain hares¶

1 Section 16 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (power to grant licenses) is modified as follows.

2 In subsection (3), after paragraph (e) insert—

^I4848 Licensing: land on which certain birds may be killed or taken¶

1 Section 16AA of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (“the 1981 Act”) (licensing: land on which certain birds may be killed or taken) is modified in accordance with subsections (2) to (5).

2 In subsection (4), for paragraph (c), substitute—

3 After subsection (5) insert—

4 In subsection (9)(b)(ii)(A), for the words “on the land” substitute “that supports or benefits the activities permitted by the licence,”.

5 After subsection (9) insert—

6 The relevant authority may not suspend or revoke a relevant section 16AA licence under section 16AA(9)(b)(ii)(A) of the 1981 Act, as amended by subsection (4) of this section, in relation to a relevant offence (or conduct which the relevant authority is satisfied constitutes such an offence) committed prior to the coming into force of subsection (4), unless the relevant offence (or conduct) was committed on the land to which the licence relates.

7 For the purpose of subsection (6)—

a “relevant authority” and “relevant offence” are to be construed in accordance with section 16AA(13) of the 1981 Act,

b “section 16AA licence” is to be construed in accordance with section 16AA(1) of the 1981 Act and a “relevant section 16AA licence” means a section 16AA licence which was granted prior to the coming into force of this section.

Wildfires¶

^I4949 Wildfires: enabling local authorities to issue fixed penalty notices¶

1 The Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 is modified as follows.

2 In section 201 (byelaws for good rule and government)—

a in subsection (3), at the beginning, insert “Subject to subsection (4),”,

b after subsection (3) insert—

3 After section 204 insert—

204A Byelaws: fixed penalty notices to prevent or suppress wildfires

1 The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make provision for and in connection with the issuing of fixed penalty notices in respect of any byelaws made under section 201 which relate to the prevention or suppression of wildfires.

2 Regulations under this section must specify—

a the byelaws in relation to which fixed penalty notices may be issued, and

b the persons who may issue fixed penalty notices.

3 The persons who may be specified for the purposes of subsection (2)(b) are—

a the persons, or categories of persons, that a local authority has authorised in writing for the purpose of issuing fixed penalty notices, and