Consultation on Fish and Shellfish Farm Regulation Changes

Overview
The Scottish Government is seeking public input on proposed changes to the regulation of deposits from fish and shellfish farms. The goal is to simplify the consenting process for aquaculture operations along the Scottish coastline.

Current Regulatory Framework

At present, the responsibility for regulating environmental deposits from fish farms is divided based on distance from the shore:

• Deposits within zero to three nautical miles are overseen by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
• For farms located between three and twelve nautical miles, the Marine Directorate Licensing Operations Team of the Scottish Government takes charge.

Proposed Changes

The new consultation suggests that SEPA should take the lead role for all fish farm environmental deposits within the zero to twelve nautical mile zone. This shift aims to streamline the regulatory framework.

Additionally, the consultation will address potential amendments to marine licensing exemptions, which could help reduce regulatory duplication in aquaculture development.

Statements from Cabinet Secretary

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Mairi Gougeon, remarked:

“Innovations in technology mean that aquaculture sites can now be located further from the shore. These developments have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of marine farming by lessening interactions with wild salmonids and supporting farmed fish health and welfare. The Scottish Government proposes a consistent approach to the regulation and consenting of aquaculture development and activity right across the zero to twelve nautical mile zone. This could boost the marine fish and shellfish farming industry, whilst ensuring consistency and robust assessment of development proposals. Protecting Scotland’s marine environment is crucial and supports marine industries. The benefits to coastal and island communities could be significant and I would particularly encourage these communities to share their views before the consultation ends in December.”

Background Information

The consultation period extends for 12 weeks and will conclude on 16 December 2025. Stakeholders and interested parties can participate by accessing the official consultation page: Regulation of Fish and Shellfish Farm Deposits – Scottish Government Consultations – Citizen Space.

Image Credit: © Fish Focus