Works Licences

All marine developments, with the exception of aquaculture, require a works licence from Shetland Islands Council and operation of the works licensing and marine planning systems, on behalf of the Council, forms the principal function of the Marine Management Department.  Developments requiring a works licence range from oil pipelines and marinas to marine renewable energy projects.

Shetland is unique in UK terms in that it has local control over marine waters from Mean High Water Springs out to 12 miles through powers vested in the Shetland Islands Council by the Zetland County Council Act 1974. Originally introduced to control oil related developments this legislation has subsequently been utilised to both promote and regulate all marine development through the issuing of works licences. Applications that attract objections are determined by the Council's Planning Board.

You can view the SIC Works Licence policy here