Beavers can block drainage ditches, flood fields and undermine flood banks. Because the Eurasian beaver is a European protected species in Scotland, dealing with one on your land is a licensed activity rather than routine pest control. Removing a dam that beavers are using can be an offence in itself.
When a licence can be granted
One of the purposes a licence can cover is preventing serious damage to livestock, crops, growing timber, other property or fisheries. A licence is granted only if there is no satisfactory alternative and the action will not harm the beaver population's conservation status. In practice, that means showing that less harmful measures, such as protecting trees or managing water levels, will not solve the problem before trapping or lethal control is considered.
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Record the damage
Note where beavers are active, what they have damaged and when, with photographs and maps.
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Ask NatureScot for advice
Contact NatureScot before you touch a dam, lodge or burrow, to discuss what you can do and whether you need a licence.
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Apply for a species licence
If you need to remove a dam, trap a beaver or take other action, apply before you start and keep to the licence conditions.
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations