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When is a marine licence required?

The list of ‘licensable marine activities’ is set out in section 66 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 (MCAA 2009). In summary:

1. •

   all vessels, aircraft or structures will need a licence to deposit, scuttle or incinerate any object or substance within the UK marine licensing area

2. •

   all vessels, aircraft or structures will need a licence to load or begin towing in the UK marine licensing area, and

3. •

   British vessels, aircraft or structures will need a licence to deposit, scuttle or incinerate any object or substance anywhere at sea

Exempt activities are listed in MCAA 2009, ss 74–77. See Practice Note: Marine licensing—exempt activities.

The requirement for a marine licence under MCAA 2009 may affect onshore and offshore energy projects, shipping, dredging, fishing, port and harbour developments and drainage activities.

Pre-Application

Following the Environment agency’s Consultation outcome: Environment Agency charge proposals from April 2018 the Environment Agency introduced a discretionary service providing marine licensing advice. A free preliminary opinion is offered. The charge for further technical advice