WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT – NEW RULES FOR MUIRBURN, GLUE TRAPS AND MORE

Following delays to implementation, the new muirburn licensing regime is now in effect. As of 15 September 2026, it is an offence to undertake muirburn without a muirburn licence. At the same time, the statutory muirburn season has changed and now runs from 15 September to 31 March. 

NatureScot is responsible for processing muirburn licence applications and administering the licensing regime. Detailed guidance for applicants, including how applications are assessed and what information is required, is available on NatureScot’s website. Only those who have completed the Muirburn Practitioner Foundation Course can participate in muirburn. 

A key feature of the new licensing regime is the distinction between peatland and non-peatland. Different licensing purposes apply depending on the classification of land and applicants must specify whether the land being applied for is peatland or non-peatland. Survey work may be required when applying for a non-peatland purpose where peat depth is uncertain. NatureScot has published an interactive map which classifies land as non-peatland, peatland or uncertain to help with this. 

Muirburn licence holders must have regard to the Muirburn Code, which sets out how to make muirburn safely and appropriately. The new version of the Muirburn Code, which came into effect on 15 September 2026, is available on NatureScot’s website.  

Scotland’s wildlife management regime continues to evolve and the changes do not stop with muirburn. The ban on glue traps which came into effect on 1 July 2026, together with the ban on snares, new grouse licensing framework and planned changes to the wildlife trap licensing regime, form part of a wider move towards greater regulation and control of wildlife activities. 

If you would like to discuss any of these aspects further, please click the image below and get in touch with your Turcan Connell contact.