When it comes to planning and development in the UK, encountering bats isn’t unusual. These protected species often roost in buildings, trees, and structures slated for renovation or demolition. This can trigger licensing requirements under UK wildlife law. But not all bat roosts require complex, individual mitigation licences. Enter the Bat Low Impact Class Licence — a faster, simpler alternative for low-risk projects.
This article explains what a Bat Low Impact Class Licence (LICL) is, when it can be used, who can apply, and how it benefits both developers and bats.
What Is a Bat Low Impact Class Licence?
A Bat Low Impact Class Licence (LICL) is a streamlined licence issued by Natural England that allows certain types of development to proceed when the risk to bats is minimal. It’s designed to:
- Speed up the licensing process
- Reduce red tape
- Support timely development without compromising bat conservation
This licence is part of Natural England’s Class Licence framework, aimed at situations where bat mitigation is straightforward and the impact is low.
Legal Background: Bats and the Law
Bats in the UK are protected under:
- The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
- The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
- The Environment Act 2021 (indirectly through Biodiversity Net Gain)
These laws make it illegal to:
- Deliberately capture, injure or kill a bat
- Disturb bats in their roosts
- Damage or destroy a bat roost (even if bats are not present at the time)
As a result, if bats are found on a site, you may need a bat mitigation licence before work can start.
Why Use a LICL?
The LICL is an alternative to a full EPSL (European Protected Species Licence), which can be time-consuming and complex. The key benefits of the LICL include:
- Faster processing time (usually within 10–15 working days)
- No formal submission to Natural England (the ecologist registers the site directly)
- Lower costs for applicants
- Simplified mitigation and monitoring requirements
It’s a win-win for developers needing to keep projects on schedule — and for bat conservation, since low impact situations are managed efficiently by licensed ecologists.
The LICL can only be used in very specific circumstances. To qualify, your development must meet the following criteria:
When Can a Bat Low Impact Class Licence Be Used
1. Low Conservation Impact
The bat roost must be:
- Of low conservation status (e.g. day roosts of common species like pipistrelles)
- Not supporting maternity roosts, hibernation sites, or significant feeding/commuting areas
2. Limited Numbers of Bats Affected
Only a small number of bats from a small number of species can be affected. Usually:
- Individual common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, or brown long-eared bats
- No more than three roosts impacted in a single application
3. Suitable Mitigation Measures Can Be Implemented Easily
Examples include:
- Installing bat boxes
- Creating small voids under tiles
- Replacing roost features like hanging tiles or soffits
Who Can Use the LICL?
Only a Licenced Consultant Ecologist can use the LICL. This means:
- Your ecologist must be licensed by Natural England to operate under the scheme
- You, as the developer or homeowner, cannot apply directly
So, it’s essential to choose an ecologist who is registered and experienced in class licence applications.
The Process of Applying for a Bat LICL
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the typical process:
1. Initial Bat Survey
A licensed ecologist will conduct a Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA). If bat signs are found, emergence/re-entry surveys (dusk or dawn) will follow.
2. Eligibility Assessment
If the roost and impact fall within the LICL scope, the ecologist will prepare a mitigation strategy and confirm LICL eligibility.
3. Site Registration
Your ecologist submits a Site Registration Form to Natural England. There is no formal approval process — the ecologist can start work once the form is submitted and mitigation measures are in place.
4. Implementation of Mitigation
Mitigation (e.g., installing bat boxes) is carried out before development starts. Your ecologist ensures this is in place correctly.
5. Post-Development Reporting
A short report is submitted after works, confirming outcomes and any monitoring (if required).
What Species Can a LICL Cover?
The most common species covered by a LICL include:
- Common pipistrelle
- Soprano pipistrelle
- Brown long-eared bat
Rare species (e.g. greater horseshoe bats, barbastelle) or roosts of high conservation value (e.g. maternity sites) are not eligible.
When a LICL Is Not Suitable
A LICL cannot be used if:
- The bat roost is of moderate to high conservation value
- Multiple species are using the roost in complex ways
- There is evidence of breeding, hibernation, or large numbers
- Works cannot avoid significant disturbance or destruction of essential roosting features
In such cases, a full EPSL (European Protected Species Licence) is required, and may take 6–8 weeks (or more) to process.
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Licence?
Starting works that disturb bats or damage their roosts without a licence is a criminal offence. Penalties include:
- Unlimited fines
- Up to 6 months in prison
- Site shutdowns and costly project delays
It’s always safer to commission a qualified ecologist to assess your site and advise on licence needs.
FAQs About the Bat Low Impact Class Licence
How long does a LICL take to process?
Once eligibility is confirmed, the Site Registration Form is processed immediately. There’s no waiting period — work can begin once mitigation is in place.
Does my project need planning permission before a LICL?
Not necessarily — but most development projects do. It’s best to align your ecological surveys and bat licence process with your planning application timeline.
Can homeowners use the LICL?
Yes! If your loft conversion, roof repair, or extension disturbs a low-impact bat roost, and a qualified ecologist assesses it as eligible, you can proceed under a LICL.
What’s the difference between LICL and an EPS licence?
| Aspect | LICL | EPS Licence |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Low impact only | All impacts |
| Who applies? | Ecologist | Ecologist |
| Timeframe | Instant (site registration) | 6–8 weeks |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Complexity | Minimal | Detailed |
Summary
The Bat Low Impact Class Licence is a vital tool for balancing development with bat conservation. It allows ecologists to facilitate quicker, legal, and responsible development where only low conservation bat roosts are present. It’s an efficient solution for both small-scale homeowners and large developers looking to stay on schedule — and on the right side of the law.
If you suspect bats may be present on your site, always consult a qualified ecologist early. We’ll guide you through survey requirements, potential licensing, and help you determine if a LICL is suitable for your project.