PROTECTED SPECIES SURVEYS Reptile Surveys
Planning a development near grassland, heathland, scrub, or rough ground? You might need a reptile survey before work can start — even if you’ve never spotted one.
In England, all native reptile species — including slow-worms, common lizards, grass snakes, and adders — are protected by law. That means it’s illegal to deliberately kill, injure or harm them, and if your project could impact their habitat, your local council may require a professional survey as part of your planning application.
That’s where we come in.
We carry out reptile surveys across England to help you meet legal and planning requirements, protect wildlife, and keep your project on schedule.
What’s Involved?
We’ll first do a preliminary habitat assessment to see if your site is suitable for reptiles. If there’s potential, we’ll arrange a presence/absence survey, which involves placing artificial refuges (like roofing felt or tin sheets) around the site and checking them regularly for signs of reptile activity.
These surveys are carried out during the active reptile season — typically between April and September, with the best results in spring and early autumn.
Clear Reports for Planning
Once the survey is complete, you’ll get a full report for your planning application. It will include:
What species (if any) were found
Maps and survey results
Expert recommendations
Any mitigation or licensing advice (if needed)
If reptiles are present, we’ll work with you on a plan to avoid harm, such as timing works carefully, creating safe habitats, or, if required, applying for a mitigation licence.
REPTILE SURVEY Why It Matters
Reptiles in the UK are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
This is the primary legislation that protects reptiles in the UK. Under this Act, all native reptiles are protected by Schedule 5, meaning they cannot be:
Killed
Injured
Taken from the wild
Disturbed in their habitat (including their resting places, which may include hibernation sites)
The following reptiles are protected under this Act:
Common lizard
Slow-worm
Grass snake
Adder (also known as the European viper)
It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure, or take these species from the wild, and it is also an offence to disturb them in their resting places or habitat.
Protection in Development Context
If your site could impact reptile habitats, you may need to:
Conduct a reptile survey by a licensed ecologist
Obtain a licence from Natural England or the relevant body to carry out work (if reptiles are found) during certain times of year (usually the active season, typically between April and September)
Other Relevant Legislation:
The Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC): While this European directive specifically protects certain species and habitats, it can sometimes apply to reptiles, especially rare species like the sand lizard or smooth snake.
The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006: This legislation places a duty on public bodies to consider biodiversity when making decisions, including reptiles in certain contexts.
Skipping a reptile survey when one is needed could lead to legal trouble, project delays, or even having to stop work. With our help, you can avoid surprises and make sure your development stays compliant and on track.
REPTILE SURVEY Ready to Get Started?
Get in touch with our team for a free quote or a quick chat about your site. We’ll let you know if a survey is needed and help you plan the next steps — no jargon, no stress, just clear, expert advice.
REPTILE SURVEY FAQs
Why do I need a reptile survey for my development project?
Reptiles, such as common lizards, slow-worms, and adders, are protected by law in the UK. A reptile survey is required to ensure that your development doesn’t harm these species or their habitats. If reptiles are found on the site, the survey will help guide how to manage or mitigate the impact of your project on them, ensuring compliance with wildlife protection regulations.
When is the best time to carry out a reptile survey?
Reptile surveys are best conducted during the active season, which runs from April to September. The optimal time for surveying is in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), as reptiles are more likely to be active and visible during these months. Surveys need to be conducted over several visits to ensure an accurate understanding of the reptile population.
What does a reptile survey involve?
A reptile survey typically involves placing artificial refuges (such as roofing felt or tin sheets) on the ground to provide shelter for reptiles. These refuges are then checked regularly to identify any reptiles present. The survey may require multiple visits (usually 4-6) throughout the active season to ensure accurate results and detect any species present on the site.
What happens if the survey finds reptiles on my site?
If reptiles are found on your site, the ecologist will recommend mitigation measures to protect them. These could include:
Timing works carefully to avoid harming reptiles during their active season.
Creating safe areas or relocation plans for reptiles.
Installing reptile-friendly features like hiding spots or safe passageways. In some cases, a licence from Natural England may be needed to carry out work on the site without disturbing protected reptiles.
How long does a reptile survey take to complete?
The duration of a reptile survey depends on the size and complexity of the site. Typically, surveys require multiple site visits (usually around 4-6) to check the artificial refuges and monitor reptile activity. Each visit typically lasts 2-4 hours. After the final survey, the ecologist will compile a report, which can take a few weeks to complete and provide the necessary recommendations.
Do I need a reptile survey if my site is urban or developed?
Even if your site is urban or has been previously developed, reptiles can still inhabit patches of vegetation, gardens, or vacant land. If there are suitable habitats on or near your site (such as gardens, hedgerows, or scrub areas), a reptile survey may still be required to ensure the project complies with wildlife protection laws.
What happens if a reptile survey is not carried out?
If you proceed with development without completing a reptile survey, you may be breaking the law if protected species are present and harmed during the work. Additionally, failure to conduct a survey can result in planning delays or the refusal of planning permission due to non-compliance with environmental and wildlife protection regulations.
How does a reptile survey affect my planning application?
A reptile survey helps ensure that your development complies with planning policies that protect biodiversity. If reptiles are found, it will provide the necessary information for local authorities to determine whether your project requires mitigation plans or further action. Completing the survey as part of your planning process can prevent delays and ensure your project moves forward smoothly.
Need a Reptile Survey
Get in touch for a free quote — we’ll talk you through exactly what’s needed and find a survey date that fits your schedule