Journey

Farming on SSSI land in Scotland

A learning path for Scottish farmers and land managers with SSSI-designated land - understand your conservation obligations, manage deer and muirburn lawfully, and maintain compliance with NatureScot requirements

Agriculture & Farming Running a Business Updated 3 September 2026
references 5 guides

Understanding nature conservation in Scotland

Learn how NatureScot designates protected sites, what the key legislation covers, and how conservation duties apply to land managers and farmers in Scotland.

SSSI management obligations in Scotland

Understand Operations Requiring Consent, the consent application process, NatureScot management agreements, and penalties for non-compliance on SSSI land.

Deer management obligations in Scotland

Learn about close seasons, authorisation requirements, deer management plans, and NatureScot's powers to require control measures on SSSI land.

Wildlife management and muirburn in Scotland

Understand the muirburn licensing regime under the 2024 Act (licences required from autumn 2026), restrictions on burning peatland and SSSI sites, application requirements, and the new wildlife management duties.

Invasive species obligations in Scotland

Identify your duties around invasive non-native species, understand Species Control Orders, and learn how to manage INNS on designated land without damaging protected features.