Legalize / United Kingdom / Public General Act

Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009

Type Public General Act

Publication 2009-11-12

Last updated 2026-03-25

State In force

Department Statute Law Database

Source legislation.gov.uk

articles Not indexed

Reform history JSON API

[^key-e241fbef02a7a474fe663f951bb6dc5f]: Pt. 4 applied (E.W.S) (1.1.2022) by The Norfolk Boreas Offshore Wind Farm Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/1414), arts. 1, 32 (with arts. 41, 42, Sch. 17 para. 66)

[^key-e265e27b228966dcebbd8d409056dd85]: Sch. 13 para. 5 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(b)

[^key-e2aa2e3984e54f28b68fde8d24bfeccf]: S. 237(9A) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 29(8) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-e30d5615da734e6b7ecbabb1ae67e8af]: Words in s. 238(10) omitted (1.1.2024) by virtue of The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 (Consequential Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1424), reg. 1(2), Sch. para. 70(3)(b)

[^key-e38344b4575939c797183a437eb47caa]: S. 236(2)(aa) inserted (1.4.2018) by Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 46(3)(b), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6, 9); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(j)

[^key-e3f9292cff5483135fe02769bc568df6]: Sch. 11 para. 1 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(b)

[^key-e4190031447edab099060e0ce3d77d1a]: Pt. 8 Ch. 2 applied (with modifications) (N.I.) (18.9.2013) by Marine Act (Northern Ireland) 2013 (c. 10), ss. 39(1), 49 (with ss. 1(1), 46(3), 47)

[^key-e42ae0c98c911b5c519e3b4c198a6198]: S. 9 in force at 1.4.2010 by S.I. 2010/298, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-e52e605e3b8d74a2c82bc06e1304f5f3]: S. 140 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(b)

[^key-e57723764aed9ab35d1a0845a6e44393]: Words in Sch. 6 para. 9(2)(b) substituted (E.W.) (6.9.2015 for specified purposes, 4.12.2020 in so far as not already in force) by Planning (Wales) Act 2015 (anaw 4), s. 58(2)(b)(4)(b), Sch. 2 para. 36; S.I. 2020/1216, reg. 2(b)

[^key-e59c38f93aa2e007bb042fc88e743c47]: S. 172 in force at 1.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(f)

[^key-e5c91159838ba708e6789bf1b5a93e9e]: S. 228 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 14

[^key-e5f2c2afb66b4512e8ce665f39b45681]: Sch. 2 para. 2 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-e6abef7373963aec15af9f45bdcecac7]: Sch. 18 para. 3 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 22

[^key-e6fe658cd4e2ee7157fb3172b4fdca5c]: S. 60(8)(a) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Marine Environment (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2018 (S.I. 2018/1399), regs. 1, 2(2)(a); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

[^key-e777e450879ad46caac9996d8517218a]: S. 123(3)(a) modified (30.11.2017) by The Conservation of Offshore Marine Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1013), regs. 1, 6(6) (with regs. 3, 4(2))

[^key-e7903f3568b279f8bad711929a5c8056]: Sch. 16 para. 3(1) in force at 12.1.2010 for specified purposes by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 15(b)

[^key-e79183ee16b79981e4cf24975974e897]: Sch. 13 para. 3 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(b)

[^key-e7bca56bddbebafd72c0add6fb0bbff0]: Sch. 7 para. 9 in force at 6.4.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-e81a4d4b52035a3b1e64ce285042225b]: Sch. 7 para. 6 in force at 6.4.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-e840000708109432d7e94192eb23818a]: S. 275 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 22

[^key-e8416ed0b56fd2ea9391dce34359742b]: Pt. 4 modified (23.12.2025) by The Morecambe Offshore Windfarm Generation Assets Order 2025 (S.I. 2025/1366), arts. 1, 5 (with arts. 9, 10)

[^key-e8af99b41e65e28d128f5a8d8e552e0a]: S. 295 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 24

[^key-e905f9e09823fd9a1680fb9760686f86]: S. 72 applied (with modifications) (E.W.S.) (22.4.2022) by The East Anglia ONE North Offshore Wind Farm Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/432), art. 1(2), Sch. 13 Pt. 1 para. 7 (with arts. 40, 41)

[^key-e9a80f8464932fbbad05c4a91c566361]: S. 235 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 17

[^key-e9f8d22e422ad53ff69930545f2ff0f3]: Sch. 16 para. 7 in force at 1.1.2011 by S.I. 2010/298, art. 2, Sch. para. 13

[^key-ea15ed4802e2afc344e31c2b9c69f832]: Word in s. 123(5) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 (Consequential Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1424), reg. 1(2), Sch. para. 70(2)(d)

[^key-ead9d11264fb840f4c9818f7be386d61]: S. 199(2) omitted (12.3.2015) by virtue of The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (Fines on Summary Conviction) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/664), reg. 1(1), Sch. 4 para. 102(2) (with reg. 5(1))

[^key-eb0eba5fa008db12d19d8a48cf22cba5]: Sch. 15 para. 1 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 8

[^key-eb181aad568d9f7c5647aa933efe2527]: S. 72 applied in part (E.W.S.) (5.3.2022) by The Norfolk Vanguard Offshore Wind Farm Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/138), art. 1, Sch. 10 Pt. 2 para. 2 (with arts. 41, 42, Sch. 16)

[^key-eb2a6dfec77eafaed211fbd93e610e89]: S. 24 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 3

[^key-ec20bd0cf5cdcff309e28eb79af07d51]: Pt. 4 modified (22.9.2025) by The Morgan Offshore Wind Project Generation Assets Order 2025 (S.I. 2025/1012), arts. 1, 5 (with arts. 9, 10)

[^key-ec3a26420e4631ad8acac38ad8ec1c06]: S. 121 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(a)

[^key-ecbc1b7f26e01de26626aa0ab73e58c4]: Sch. 1 para. 12 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-ecfa70ffad30fc3cdf99bc0faab22a1d]: Sch. 14 para. 8 in force at 1.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(k)

[^key-ed64de8cf15539f5e148949af3e020be]: Words in s. 292(8) substituted (E.W.) (12.3.2015) by The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (Fines on Summary Conviction) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/664), reg. 1(1), Sch. 4 para. 43(9)(b) (with reg. 5(1))

[^key-ee0b659d25aab1b339c86fdd6fc9403a]: Words in s. 137(1) substituted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 20(3) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-ee32c9dbd0dc3e1ff4f122a6d7edb3b0]: S. 316(6)(za) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 31(3) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-ee513f9f8bd8dd63348c60942f38860a]: Words in s. 142(1) omitted (23.1.2021) by virtue of Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 25 (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-ee72b2e318ae06903171f3839970b832]: Sch. 10 para. 9(5)(b) substituted (27.6.2018) by Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (c. 25), s. 272(1), Sch. 10 para. 24(3) (with Sch. 9 paras. 7, 8, 10); S.I. 2018/652, reg. 12(g)(iii)

[^key-eece9ba661fa69bb1ec4ea7798c69497]: S. 25(5)-(7) inserted (23.11.2020) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(1)(f), Sch. 10 para. 3(3) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-eee51dbfdf89aaf2f1febd52ddeb26dd]: Sch. 17 para. 3 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 21

[^key-ef4fc9f3f8820a98b6f9ab6dd02f7ccf]: S. 219 in force at 1.1.2011 by S.I. 2010/298, art. 2, Sch. para. 13

[^key-ef7b080b52db4d25ae0679d69ab0bb2d]: Words in s. 237(8) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 29(7) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-f010aa6d8c75bf92c81d56b6be8793ec]: S. 181 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2195, art. 3(2)(i) (with art. 4)

[^key-f02f19a97e28448fdf538807bc5bc5c8]: Sch. 1 para. 15 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-f06a7a336496a9933b358b2475d64d0a]: Pt. 4 modified (E.W.S.) (7.9.2016) by The Hornsea Two Offshore Wind Farm Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/844), arts. 1(2), 36 (with arts. 37, 38)

[^key-f08e78ff0ce1792bf29a64340b85b581]: Sch. 16 para. 20 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 15(i)

[^key-f0962516f16db4a1e175a00b61dccb24]: S. 26(3)(4) inserted (23.11.2020) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(1)(f), Sch. 10 para. 4(4) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-f107ebd8091e3f338048e60f17a88506]: Sch. 1 para. 11 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-f1204aa40d83897ba4b7a14ea6009c9b]: Pt. 4 modified (E.W.S.) (15.9.2016) by The River Humber Gas Pipeline Replacement Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/853), arts. 1, 39 (with art. 43)

[^key-f147181db9a8d45d033881a79edec6a0]: S. 42 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 6

[^key-f1680272fd8859ad5480b04dbd62645a]: Sch. 1 para. 23 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-f21fe3815c4868bb2be8e35974abec2a]: Sch. 7 para. 13 in force at 6.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-f285228f3e51182693eb666649e9622b]: S. 199 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 8

[^key-f2856fdc122a82f429d55f546811ab4b]: Sch. 1 para. 24 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-f32502ee77e201e9a5ca08c73829dfa7]: Sch. 3 para. 5 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 5

[^key-f33d0d3b34d5f752fd31389b4ff03f55]: Sch. 8 para. 2 in force at 6.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-f3b80e9b26d2ad873258610972670edf]: S. 73 in force at 6.4.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-f3df30d4004ee3308083d0fce421c5fe]: S. 239 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 18

[^key-f4091421f69c2aaca6d2b043c4ea1da5]: Words in s. 232(5)(h)(iii) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Natural Resources Body for Wales (Functions) Order 2013 (No. 755), art. 1(2), Sch. 2 para. 447(3)(b) (with Sch. 7)

[^key-f4720509c0a24f70b1f62fdf7c016832]: S. 238(3)(da)(db) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 30 (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-f533d5161be086e86a507d6131944081]: S. 263 in force at 6.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(b)

[^key-f5667bc79c4a4244f5fbca2c6763b26b]: S. 261 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 21

[^key-f5dd58f04b46c8357b40589a847cd56d]: Word in s. 238(2)(b) substituted (1.1.2024) by The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 (Consequential Amendment) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/1424), reg. 1(2), Sch. para. 70(2)(e)

[^key-f60fb8a3e88df614702745ed2b1b2f29]: S. 72(7)(8) excluded (E.W.S.) (22.4.2022) by The East Anglia ONE North Offshore Wind Farm Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/432), arts. 1(2), 5(14) (with arts. 40, 41)

[^key-f67e72dae989c52b6fde3e91ea41e1aa]: Sch. 14 para. 7 in force at 1.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(k)

[^key-f6ca9aaf8c048a7965e2c94de688935e]: Words in Sch. 7 para. 13(5)(a) substituted (25.5.2018) by Data Protection Act 2018 (c. 12), s. 212(1), Sch. 19 para. 159(2) (with ss. 117, 209, 210); S.I. 2018/625, reg. 2(1)(g)

[^key-f6d266c6d49dab202ca839d237b82620]: S. 72A inserted (E.W.) (24.2.2017 for specified purposes) by Environment (Wales) Act 2016 (anaw 3), ss. 77(1), 88(3)(c) (with s. 77(2)); S.I. 2017/152, art. 2(a)

[^key-f6e159f11c2ad3e74bf9568b28d935b2]: S. 7 in force at 1.4.2010 by S.I. 2010/907, art. 2(2)(d)

[^key-f72b80ae883c8b04a7d3f41cad06fce0]: Sch. 1 para. 8 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-f7b97d4b18665ac842cba852b4f14693]: Words in s. 131(8)(a) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 13(4) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-f7ca29ef00b9bf42cb9e9b7d66a8a746]: S. 113(5)(c) inserted (1.4.2018) by Wales Act 2017 (c. 4), ss. 46(2)(b), 71(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 1, 6, 9); S.I. 2017/1179, reg. 3(j)

[^key-f7ec3045c678f615a6c9bffb147a4e36]: Words in s. 147(1) substituted (1.4.2013) by The Natural Resources Body for Wales (Functions) Order 2013 (No. 755), art. 1(2), Sch. 2 para. 443 (with Sch. 7)

[^key-f893784becf81fb1621fff64a8849f2c]: S. 68 in force at 6.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(a)

[^key-f8c6eee496003964ed2233ae8575fb4a]: S. 160 in force at 1.4.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(c)

[^key-f9191e8b63131c067129044aaa39366a]: S. 282 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 22

[^key-f91c701ad70f79542db74fc7c7f2a961]: S. 314 in force at 6.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 3(2)(c)

[^key-f9796ce38acb5cbc8c2fb0cc503c803c]: Words in s. 147(1) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 26(2)(c) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-f9aa5020240523e1f410d4893c38254f]: S. 98(6)(ca) inserted (E.W.) (1.4.2017) by Environment (Wales) Act 2016 (anaw 3), ss. 80(a), 88(3)(c); S.I. 2017/504, art. 2

[^key-f9ca06d0aa9c64f6e28472e9dacc83bc]: S. 184 in force at 1.4.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(k)

[^key-f9ea49193d27c458117ccf665423ae18]: Sch. 3 para. 16 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 5

[^key-fa06489f40d74d51e5b4461574704ac1]: S. 173 in force at 1.4.2011 by S.I. 2011/556, art. 2(2)(g)

[^key-fa3ca8f0265c241397481d1d891eccd3]: S. 155 modified (E.W.) (1.1.2017) by The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/1154), reg. 1(1), Sch. 23 paras. 1(3), 2 Table 9 (with regs. 1(3), 77-79, Sch. 4)

[^key-fa88ee3b68e97790ed92955484457590]: Sch. 17 para. 1 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 21

[^key-fad96a86b7e38ae7313c8e15aff975e2]: Sch. 4 para. 4 in force at 31.3.2014 by S.I. 2013/3055, art. 2

[^key-fbe6717d9ec649f845981b294d6a8744]: Sch. 14 para. 13 in force at 1.10.2010 by S.I. 2010/2195, art. 3(2)(l)

[^key-fc432635337eac29f7b895f78da850b5]: S. 217(1) in force at 1.1.2011 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2010/298, art. 2, Sch. para. 13

[^key-fcf2f5ef5de13bb7608f9126e7b0c178]: S. 16(1)(f) inserted (1.4.2013) by The Natural Resources Body for Wales (Functions) Order 2013 (No. 755), art. 1(2), Sch. 2 para. 442 (with Sch. 7)

[^key-fd02585a3533a4054fac23ca7f8d740f]: Sch. 1 para. 17 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 1

[^key-fd6fcf5f6aeefd4e00d3d1181aa71e04]: S. 279 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 22

[^key-fd8c55b473fdba12fd2a07a9ac13303c]: S. 286 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 22

[^key-fe84304fb8ad5f2140bca4190b390e56]: Words in s. 130(2) inserted (23.1.2021) by Fisheries Act 2020 (c. 22), s. 54(4)(d), Sch. 10 para. 12(3) (with Sch. 4 para. 31)

[^key-fe9fec5210cba3251e9f51b35d97b23e]: Sch. 10 para. 6 in force at 12.12.2014 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2014/3088, art. 2(b)

[^key-ff1f29c3f70c453b48b58e22578e905e]: Sch. 16 para. 24 in force at 12.1.2010 by S.I. 2009/3345, art. 2, Sch. para. 15(i)

[^key-ff21fbeada35654f10e36b23d9ff17b9]: Words in s. 292(8) inserted (E.W.) (12.3.2015) by The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (Fines on Summary Conviction) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/664), reg. 1(1), Sch. 4 para. 43(9)(a) (with reg. 5(1))

[^key-ff3b0640c9e350fb6806246ba05a1cbc]: S. 72 applied in part (with modifications) (E.W.S.) (31.12.2014) by The Hornsea One Offshore Wind Farm Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/3331), art. 1, Sch. 8 para. 2(5), Sch. 9 para. 2(5), Sch. 10 para. 2(6), Sch. 11 para. 2(8) (with arts. 37, 38)

[^M_C_09bc69be-6001-4e79-e52d-8070530b03ed]: S. 238 applied (1.4.2024) by Regulation (EU) No. 640/2010, Art. 9C(4) (as inserted by The Sea Fisheries (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 (S.I. 2024/439), regs. 1(1), 4(10))

[^M_C_28a16c6c-8858-41cf-cc38-1c7e5a1dc4ab]: S. 238 applied (1.4.2024) by Regulation (EU) No. 1627/2016, Art. 56D(4) (as inserted by The Sea Fisheries (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 (S.I. 2024/439), regs. 1(1), 6(34))

[^M_C_4d98c5f4-4093-4163-be4a-f8e93fab52b1]: S. 75 excluded (17.7.2023) by S.I. 2023/675, art. 50(4) (as inserted by The Portreath, Portscatho and Portwrinkle Harbour Empowerment Order 2023 (S.I. 2023/680), arts. 1(1), 5(3) (with arts. 6, 7))

[^M_C_76a6070e-103b-4568-b28f-a483624a515c]: Pt. 4: power to amend or modify conferred (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 22(3), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_F_3e5fa5b7-b0cc-4097-b944-6fc51e3865cd]: Words in s. 81(1) inserted (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 20(4)(b), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_F_194c4eeb-0d64-4d9a-8211-278e877a9344]: Words in s. 81 heading omitted (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 20(4)(a), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_F_2937d2ef-985c-4658-e957-b4c562127e04]: S. 81(5A) inserted (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 20(4)(c), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_F_ed8cc276-e9eb-4ee1-be89-b1cf426d17d3]: S. 66(3A)-(3C) inserted (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 20(2), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_F_2ae08624-4428-429b-a5b8-3fa26041a396]: S. 74(4A) inserted (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 20(3), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^M_C_3c9da9d3-99fc-479a-aeeb-76e12e5d7b38]: Pt. 8: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (12.2.2026) by Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026 (c. 6), ss. 14(4)(g), 32(1) (with s. 30)

[^key-8917b30ecb8ed2efd64956ca8032d373]: S. 75 excluded (20.2.2026) by The Lyme Regis, Bridport (West Bay) and Weymouth Harbour Revision Order 2026 (S.I. 2026/62), arts. 1(1), 42(2) (with arts. 30, 51, 52)

[^key-119c5d510d663b18822abae0250db67e]: Sch. 6 para. 1(2)(da) inserted (25.3.2026) by Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (c. 55), s. 255(3)(b), Sch. 8 para. 31(2)(a) (with s. 247); S.I. 2026/169, reg. 3(f)(xi) (with Sch. 1)

[^key-9568d85d8cd70866caf6808b78bb04fd]: Words in Sch. 6 para. 1(3) substituted (25.3.2026) by Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (c. 55), s. 255(3)(b), Sch. 8 para. 31(2)(b)(i) (with s. 247); S.I. 2026/169, reg. 3(f)(xi) (with Sch. 1)

[^key-3934e22a00efba5bcca5aff69cdc513d]: Words in Sch. 6 para. 1(3) inserted (25.3.2026) by Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (c. 55), s. 255(3)(b), Sch. 8 para. 31(2)(b)(ii) (with s. 247); S.I. 2026/169, reg. 3(f)(xi) (with Sch. 1)

[^key-923a1e6e626cb4ed2e18a90ad2048fea]: Words in Sch. 6 para. 3(6) substituted (25.3.2026) by Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (c. 55), s. 255(3)(b), Sch. 8 para. 31(3) (with s. 247); S.I. 2026/169, reg. 3(f)(xi) (with Sch. 1)

[^M_C_2e0e24fc-e358-4583-a38b-2cf9beab4a36]: S. 72(7)(8) excluded (4.3.2026) by The Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind Farm Order 2026 (S.I. 2026/138), arts. 1(2), 5(12) (with arts. 42, 43, Sch. 18)

[^M_C_23bfdc49-ced6-4a12-e9b9-50482e1b996b]: S. 72 applied in part (4.3.2026) by The Outer Dowsing Offshore Wind Farm Order 2026 (S.I. 2026/138), art. 1(2), Sch. 10 para. 7, Sch. 11 para. 7, Sch 12 para. 7, Sch 13 para. 7, Sch 14 para. 7, Sch 15 para. 7 (with arts. 42, 43, Sch. 18)

General duties of public authorities in relation to MCZs

Grounds for designation of MCZs

Directions to persons as regards performance of delegated functions

Inshore fisheries and conservation authorities

Meaning of “enforcement authority”

Orders under section 98: supplementary provisions

Marine conservation zones

Regulation of nets and other fishing gear

Charging for commercial fishing licences

Power to restrict fishing for sea fish

Penalties for offences

Purposes for which tolls etc may be applied

Offences

Exemption from liability

Penalties for offences

Offences

Purposes for which tolls etc may be applied

Power to restrict fishing for sea fish

Orders prohibiting the taking and sale of certain lobsters

Protection of private shellfish beds

Prohibited implements

Taking of crabs and lobsters for scientific purposes

Prohibited implements

Limitation of licences

Theft of fish from private fisheries etc

Byelaws: enforcement

Order-making powers: supplementary

Byelaws: emergency procedures

Byelaws: compensation

Tweed and Esk fisheries

Retention of seized items

Administrative penalty schemes

Application to the Crown

Access to the coastal margin

Consequential and supplementary amendments

Power to record evidence of offences

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

Dredging in the Scottish zone

Publication of orders designating MCZs

Establishment of inshore fisheries and conservation districts

Publication of orders designating MCZs

Offences

Charging for commercial fishing licences

Grant of licences subject to conditions imposed for environmental purposes

Penalties for offences

General duties of public authorities in relation to MCZs

Grant of licences subject to conditions imposed for environmental purposes

Penalties for offences

Purposes for which tolls etc may be applied

Variation etc of orders as a result of development

Protection of private shellfish beds

Prohibited implements

Taking of crabs and lobsters for scientific purposes

Roe etc

Power to appoint inspector before making orders as to fisheries for shellfish

Enforcement

Theft of fish from private fisheries etc

Licences to fish

Byelaws: emergency procedures

Keeping, introduction and removal of fish

Marine enforcement officers

Administrative penalty schemes

The coastal access duty

Access to the coastal margin

Marine enforcement officers

Application to the Crown

Establishment and maintenance of the English coastal route etc

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

79A

(1) This section has effect in cases where a person who proposes to carry on an activity must first make both—

(a) an application to the Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland (“ the Department ”) for a marine licence to carry on that activity (the “marine licence application”), and

(b) a related application for a generating station consent (the “generating station application”).

(2) A “related application for a generating station consent” is an application to DETI for a consent under Article 39 of the Electricity Order (consent for construction, etc. of generating stations) in relation to—

(a) the activity for which the marine licence is required, or

(b) other works to be undertaken in connection with that activity.

(3) In any case where—

(a) both the marine licence application and the generating station application have been made,

(b) DETI decides (with the agreement of the Department) that the two applications are to be considered together, and

the two applications are to be considered together.

(4) Subsection (5) applies in any case where—

(a) one of the applications has been received but not the other,

(b) DETI decides (with the agreement of the Department) that the two applications are to be considered together, and

(5) In any such case—

(a) the application that has been received is not to be considered until the other application has also been received,

(b) the two applications are to be considered together, and

but this is subject to any provision that may be made by virtue of subsection (6)(c) or (d).

(6) The Department may by order do any of the following—

(a) make provision falling within subsection (7) for cases where subsection (3) applies;

(b) make provision falling within subsection (7) for cases where subsection (5) applies;

(c) make provision falling within subsection (7) or (8) for cases where DETI (with the agreement of the Department) comes to the conclusion that the marine licence application is not going to be made;

(d) make provision falling within subsection (7) or (8) for cases where DETI comes to the conclusion that the generating station application is not going to be made.

(7) The provision that may be made by virtue of this subsection is—

(a) provision that such procedural provisions of this Part as are specified in the order are not to apply to the marine licence application;

(b) provision that such procedural provisions of the Electricity Order as are so specified are to apply to that application instead;

(8) The provision that may be made by virtue of this subsection is provision modifying—

(a) such procedural provisions of this Part as are specified in the order, or

(b) such procedural provisions of the Electricity Order as are specified in the order.

(9) In this section—

“ DETI ” means the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland;

“ the Electricity Order ” means the Electricity (Northern Ireland) Order 1992;

“ procedural provisions ” means any provisions for or in connection with the procedure for determining an application.

Submarine cables on the continental shelf

Electronic communications apparatus

General duties of public authorities in relation to MCZs

Exemption from liability

Power of Welsh Ministers in relation to fisheries in Wales

General duties of public authorities in relation to MCZs

Minor and consequential amendments

Power of Welsh Ministers in relation to fisheries in Wales

Regulation of nets and other fishing gear

Orders prohibiting the taking and sale of certain lobsters

Prohibited implements

Roe etc

Power to appoint inspector before making orders as to fisheries for shellfish

Limitation of licences

Authorisation to fish

Byelaws: emergency procedures

Tweed and Esk fisheries

Application to the Crown

Isles of Scilly

The Crown

Area in which functions of Natural England exercisable

Amendments of the Harbours Act 1964

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

73A

(1) If a person is aggrieved by a decision of the Scottish Ministers to which this section applies, and wishes to question the validity of the decision on either of the grounds mentioned in subsection (2), the person (the “aggrieved person”) may make an application to the Inner House of the Court of Session under this section.

(2) The grounds are that—

(a) the decision is not within the powers of the Scottish Ministers under this Part,

(b) one or more of the relevant requirements have not been complied with in relation to the decision.

(3) This section applies to—

(a) a decision to cause, or not to cause, an inquiry to be held under section 70(1) in connection with the Scottish Ministers’ determination of an application for a marine licence to carry on an activity in respect of which a generating station application must also be made, and

(b) a decision under section 71 in relation to an application for a marine licence to carry on such an activity.

(4) An application under this section must be made within the period of 6 weeks beginning with the date on which the decision to which the application relates is taken.

(5) On an application under this section, the Inner House of the Court of Session—

(a) may suspend the decision until the final determination of the proceedings,

(b) may quash the decision either in whole or in part if satisfied that—

(i) the decision in question is not within the powers of the Scottish Ministers under this Part, or

(ii) the interests of the aggrieved person have been substantially prejudiced by failure to comply with any of the relevant requirements in relation to the decision.

(6) In this section—

“generating station application” means an application for consent under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 (consent for the construction etc. of generating stations) which falls (or would fall) to be granted by the Scottish Ministers;

“the relevant requirements”, in relation to a decision to which this section applies, means the requirements of this Act, or of any order or regulations made under this Part, which are applicable to that decision.

Applications under section 73A: requirement for permission

73B

(1) No proceedings may be taken in respect of an application under section 73A(1) unless the Inner House of the Court of Session has granted permission for the application to proceed.

(2) The Court may grant permission under subsection (1) for an application to proceed only if it is satisfied that—

(a) the applicant can demonstrate a sufficient interest in the subject matter of the application, and

(b) the application has a real prospect of success.

(3) The Court may grant permission under subsection (1) for an application to proceed—

(a) subject to such conditions as the Court thinks fit, or

(b) only on such of the grounds specified in the application as the Court thinks fit.

Dredging in the Scottish zone

Electronic communications apparatus

Meaning of “enforcement authority”

Minor and consequential amendments

Purposes for which tolls etc may be applied

Protection of private shellfish beds

Register of licences

Roe etc

Power to appoint inspector before making orders as to fisheries for shellfish

Limitation of licences

Enforcement

Theft of fish from private fisheries etc

Handling fish

Authorisation to fish

Tweed and Esk fisheries

Isles of Scilly

Natural England not to be responder for Civil Contingencies Act 2004

Regulations and orders

Access to the coastal margin

Restricting liabilities of Natural England and the Secretary of State

Regulations and orders

Area in which functions of Natural England exercisable

Area in which functions of Countryside Council for Wales exercisable

Amendments of the Harbours Act 1964

Directions

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

Power to appoint inspector before making orders as to fisheries for shellfish

Prohibited implements

Roe etc

Orders prohibiting the taking and sale of certain lobsters

Power to specify fish

Authorisation to fish

Theft of fish from private fisheries etc

Handling fish

Byelaws: emergency procedures

Handling fish

Marine enforcement officers

Area in which functions of Natural England exercisable

Establishment and maintenance of the English coastal route etc

Area in which functions of Countryside Council for Wales exercisable

Natural England not to be responder for Civil Contingencies Act 2004

Regulations and orders

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

Marine conservation zones

Report

Regulation of nets and other fishing gear

Cancellation of licence after single relevant conviction

Taking of crabs and lobsters for scientific purposes

Power to appoint inspector before making orders as to fisheries for shellfish

Use of implements of fishing

Licences to fish

Order-making powers: supplementary

Power to specify fish

Duties of the Environment Agency

Retention of seized items

Establishment and maintenance of the English coastal route etc

Isles of Scilly

Area in which functions of Natural England exercisable

Directions

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

Fees

110A

(1) The Secretary of State may charge fees in connection with carrying out functions under this Part, so far as relating to oil and gas activities for which a marine licence is needed.

(2) The fees are to be determined by or in accordance with regulations made by the Secretary of State.

(3) The regulations may authorise the fees to be determined by or in accordance with a scheme made by the Secretary of State.

(4) If the regulations provide for determining fees in connection with functions of the Secretary of State under section 67, the fees are to be those provided for by the regulations, and not those (if any) provided for by regulations under section 67(2) or determined under section 67(5).

(5) “Oil and gas activities” are activities which relate to operations regulated under any of the provisions listed in subsection (6).

(6) The provisions are—

(a) section 2 of the Petroleum (Production) Act 1934 (searching and boring for, and getting, petroleum);

(b) Part 1 of the Petroleum Act 1998 (searching and boring for, and getting, petroleum);

(d) Part 4 of the Petroleum Act 1998 (abandonment of offshore installations);

(e) Part 1 of the Energy Act 2008 (gas importation and storage);

(f) Part 4 of the Energy Act 2008 (oil and gas).

(7) See Chapter 1 for when a marine licence is needed for activities.

Size limits for sea fish

Inshore fisheries and conservation authorities

Charging for commercial fishing licences

Orders prohibiting the taking and sale of certain lobsters

Licences to fish

Limitation of licences

Enforcement

Order-making powers: supplementary

Theft of fish from private fisheries etc

Power to record evidence of offences

Establishment and maintenance of the English coastal route etc

The following is the Schedule to be inserted as Schedule 1A to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 (c. 97)—

67A

(1) This section applies where the Welsh Ministers are the appropriate licensing authority.

(2) The licensing authority may provide advice or other assistance to any person who requests it in connection with—

(a) an application which the person proposes to make to the licensing authority for a marine licence, or

(b) any other matter in respect of which the licensing authority exercises functions under this Part.

(3) The licensing authority may charge fees in respect of the reasonable costs incurred by it in connection with the provision of advice or other assistance under subsection (2).

72A

(1) This section applies where the Welsh Ministers are the appropriate licensing authority in relation to a marine licence granted under this Part.

(2) The licensing authority may require the licensee to pay a fee for—

(a) monitoring an activity authorised by the licence,

(b) assessing and interpreting the results of any monitoring of an activity authorised by the licence, or

(c) dealing with an application by the licensee for a variation, suspension, revocation or transfer of the licence under section 72.

(3) In subsection (2) “monitoring”, in relation to a licence, means monitoring carried out for the purposes of enabling the licensing authority to determine—

(a) the environmental, economic or social consequences of any activity authorised by the licence, or

(b) whether the licensee is complying with any conditions attached to that licence.

(4) The fees that may be charged under subsection (2) are to be determined by or in accordance with regulations made by the licensing authority.

(5) Regulations under subsection (4) may provide for different fees for different cases.

(6) If the licensing authority carries out any investigation, examination or test which in its opinion is necessary or expedient to enable it to determine an application by a licensee for a variation, suspension, revocation or transfer of a licence under section 72, the authority may require the licensee to pay a fee towards the reasonable expenses of that investigation, examination or test.

(7) If a licensee fails to comply with a requirement to pay a fee charged under subsection (2)(a) or (b), the licensing authority may by notice vary, suspend or revoke the licence.

(8) The suspension of a licence under subsection (7) continues in effect until the fee is paid (but this is subject to any provision made under section 108(3)(b) in relation to notices under that subsection).

(9) If a licensee who has applied for a variation, suspension, revocation or transfer of a licence under section 72 fails to comply with a requirement to pay a fee charged under this section in connection with that application, the licensing authority may—

(a) refuse to proceed with the application, or

(b) refuse to proceed with it until the failure is remedied.

107A

(1) This section applies where the Welsh Ministers are the appropriate licensing authority.

(2) Where a person is required to pay a fee to the licensing authority under this Part, the licensing authority may require the person to pay a deposit on account of the fee.

(3) The amount that a person may be required to pay under subsection (2) is to be determined by or in accordance with regulations made by the licensing authority.

(4) If a licensee fails to comply with a requirement to pay a deposit charged under subsection (2) on account of a fee charged under section 72A(2)(a) or (b), the licensing authority may by notice vary, suspend or revoke the licence.

(5) The suspension of a licence under subsection (4) continues in effect until the deposit is paid (but this is subject to any provision made under section 108(3)(b) in relation to notices under that subsection).

(6) If a person who has applied for a licence under section 67 or for a variation, suspension, revocation or transfer of a licence under section 72 fails to comply with a requirement to pay a deposit charged under subsection (2) in connection with that application, the licensing authority may—

(a) refuse to proceed with the application, or

(b) refuse to proceed with it until the failure is remedied.

107B

(1) This section applies where the Welsh Ministers are the appropriate licensing authority.

(2) When making provision under section 67(2) or 72A(4) about fees payable in respect of a type of application to the licensing authority or in respect of an activity of the licensing authority, the licensing authority must decide what provision to make by reference to the expected costs of dealing with that type of application or of carrying out that activity.

(3) The licensing authority may require a fee charged by it under this Part to be payable in advance of the activity to which the fee relates being carried out.

(4) The licensing authority may waive or reduce a fee.

(5) The licensing authority may by regulations make provision about how and when a fee or deposit charged by it under this Part is to be paid.

(6) A fee or deposit charged under this Part may be recovered by the licensing authority as a civil debt (in addition to any other action that may be taken by the licensing authority).

Advice and guidance by conservation bodies

Marine boundaries of SSSIs and national nature reserves

Establishment of inshore fisheries and conservation districts

Offences

Taking of crabs and lobsters for scientific purposes

Byelaws: compensation

Handling fish

Retention of seized items

Power to record evidence of offences

General provision about the coastal access duty

Area in which functions of Natural England exercisable

Regulations and orders

Directions

Reading this document does not replace reading the official text published on legislation.gov.uk. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies arising from the conversion of the original CLML XML to this format.

This text is published under legislation.gov.uk's own terms of reuse, not a Legalize or public-domain licence. legislation.gov.uk
Open Government Licence v3.0 (attribution required)
© Crown and database right. Derived from content available under the Open Government Licence v3.0 from legislation.gov.uk.