Apply for a licence for restricted activities associated with the rapid eradication of invasive alien species of special concern

Licence for restricted activities associated with the rapid eradication of invasive alien species of special concern

The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019 sets out rules to prevent and minimise the impact of the introduction and spread of invasive non-native animals and plants in England and Wales.

The Order lists 66 species of special concern, whose adverse impact requires coordinated action at a European level.

The legislation makes it an offence to carry out any of the following activities with listed species, except where a licence, permit or exemption is in place:

• import
• keep
• breed
• transport (except transportation to facilities in the context of eradication)
• use or exchange
• place on the market
• grow, cultivate or permit to reproduce
• release into the environment

In limited circumstances, a licence from Natural Resources Wales may be issued to carry out restricted activities associated with the rapid eradication of species of special concern at an early stage of invasion in Wales.

If, for example, a Yellow-legged (Asian) hornet was found in Wales, the authorities may wish to seek a licence from us to release and track a Yellow-legged hornet to help detect and destroy a nest for the purpose of rapid eradication. 

Find GOV.UK guidance on the rules for animals of special concern.

Find GOV.UK guidance on the rules for plants of special concern.

Apply for a licence to carry out restricted activities associated with rapid eradication

To apply for a licence to implement measures for the rapid eradication of species of special concern at an early stage of invasion in Wales download and complete the application form.

The application must be accompanied by a detailed method statement. Download a template method statement.

If you have any questions about licences for listed species, please email: specieslicence@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

or telephone us on 0300 065 3000.

Return completed application forms by email or to:

Species Licensing,
Natural Resources Wales,
Maes y Ffynnon,
Penrhosgarnedd,
Bangor
LL57 2DW