As a householder in the UK, you may have questions about how to incorporate bat conservation measures into your renovation or construction projects. Bats are protected under UK law, and it’s important to consider their needs when planning any development that could affect their habitats. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about bats and planning applications in the UK:
Are bats protected under UK law?
Yes, all bat species in the UK are designated and protected as European protected species (EPS) under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. It is an offence to deliberately kill, injure, disturb, capture, damage, or destroy their breeding sites and resting places. It is also an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to intentionally or recklessly disturb bats or obstruct their access to places of shelter or protection.
Do I need to conduct a bat survey before starting my project?
If your project will effect parts of a building that bats can roost in, you should consult a qualified ecologist to conduct a survey. Note that bats don’t just hang upside down from the rafters – most bats which roost in buildings in the UK tuck away in crevices on the outside of the building; under roof tiles, behind hanging tiles, or in soffits and cavity walls.
How do I avoid, mitigate, and compensate for negative impacts on bat habitats?
If your project is likely to have a negative impact on bat habitats, there are steps you can take to avoid, mitigate, and compensate for these impacts. This could include providing alternative roosting or foraging sites, implementing measures to reduce artificial lighting, or creating new access points for bats. A qualified ecologist can provide guidance on the best measures to take in your specific situation.
Do I need a wildlife licence to carry out work that affects bat habitats?
In some cases, you may need to obtain a wildlife licence to carry out work that could affect bat habitats. It’s important to check with a qualified ecologist to determine whether a licence is required and what steps you need to take to obtain it. Sometimes a licence can be avoided, for example if we are able to mitigate all of the impacts, but usually if the works will result in removing bat roosts or disturbing bats, a license should be in place.
What should I do if I find a bat roost on my property?
If you discover a bat roost on your property, you should not disturb it or attempt to remove the bats. Bats are protected under UK law, and it’s an offence to damage or destroy their roost, even when the bats are not present. If you are planning any work that could affect the roost, you should consult a qualified ecologist to determine the best course of action.
If you have a bat in the living areas of your house, for example if one has flown in and got stuck, or has been injured by a cat, there are a network of volunteers who can provide assistance run through the Bat Conservation Trust.
Overall, it’s important for householders in the UK to be aware of the legal protections for bats and to consider their needs when planning any development that could affect their habitats. By following the advice of qualified ecologists and taking steps to avoid, mitigate, and compensate for negative impacts, you can help to conserve these important species while still pursuing your renovation or construction plans.
