How do I get a GCN licence?

To apply for your GCN survey or research class licence level 1 (CL08) click to following link to find the application form: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/great-crested-newts-survey-or-research-licence-level-1.

What is a GCN licence?

Licences for activities affecting great crested newts, a protected species.

Do you need a license to handle newts?

You won’t need a licence for many cases of standard pond management works, but you will need to plan the work well to minimise the risk of deliberate killing, injuring or disturbing newts. By working carefully, you’ll make sure that your pond habitat recovers the following year.

Do I need a great crested newt licence?

You must set free all captured great crested newts as soon as you’ve finished examining them. You need a separate mitigation licence to do anything not covered by this licence.

Is the GCN district level licensing framework applicable to Natural England?

This Framework document sets out overarching principles for Natural England’s expectations for applications for organisational licences and will also apply to Natural England in the administration of its own district level licensing schemes.

Where can I get a GCN licence in England?

Natural England is working hard to make this new licensing option for GCN available in more places across England. DLL is currently available across 69 local authorities and we hope to increase this to around 100 local authorities by the end of September. By the end of the year, DLL will be in place across 150 LPAs.

How does the GCN work with Natural England?

Instead developers can make a conservation payment which will cover creation or restoration of ponds in areas away from the development. These areas, mapped by Natural England, represent the best places for newts to thrive and habitat created here will be maintained and monitored for 25 years, all funded by developers.

Do you have to pay for Natural England licences?

Natural England may charge for certain licences. Read the guidance for these licences to find out if you’ll need to pay for a licence or to make a modification to an existing one: You only need to apply for individual and organisational licences. You can apply for individual licences online or by post.