Deer (Scotland) Act 1996

At a glance

Key facts and requirements

Specific requirements and data extracted from this legislation.

• Deer management regulatory framework in Scotland

  NatureScot oversight of deer management in Scotland including Deer Management Plans, control agreements, and control schemes under the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996.

• Deer close seasons in Scotland by species and sex

  Statutory close season dates during which deer of each species and sex may not be killed, under the Deer (Close Seasons) (Scotland) Order 2011.

• Deer Management Groups and NatureScot intervention powers in Scotland

  Voluntary collaborative Deer Management Groups and NatureScot powers to impose compulsory control schemes where voluntary deer management fails.

• Night shooting of deer authorisation in Scotland

  NatureScot authorisation process for night shooting of deer, which is generally prohibited under the Deer (Scotland) Act 1996.

• Out-of-season deer killing for crop and forestry damage in Scotland

  Statutory right for agricultural occupiers to kill deer out of season to prevent serious damage to crops, enclosed woodland, or growing trees and vegetables under …

Step-by-step journeys using this legislation

Walkthroughs that take you from a real business situation to compliance.

Relevant guidance

Practical guides for businesses affected by this Act.

Enforcement and responsible bodies

The regulators that administer or enforce this legislation.