The Requirement for a Works Licence (granted by certain Harbour or Port Authorities)
Any works which are to be carried out within Harbour and Port Limits may require a Works Licence in terms of the relevant local Harbour Order. Where applicable, the purpose of a Works Licence is to ensure that all relevant consultations have been carried out and that there are no adverse effects on the safety of navigation within the Harbour or Port area. It is the applicant's responsibility to comply with this requirement. The applicant should therefore contact the relevant Harbour or Port Authority to discuss whether a Works Licence is applicable, and if so, to make an application.
The Marine Scotland Licensing Operations Team (MS-LOT) advise that, before any application for a Marine Licence to MS-LOT is made, the applicant should contact the relevant Harbour or Port Authority to seek advice. This will facilitate the effective and efficient processing of the Marine Licence application and, where applicable, will minimise duplication and/ or conflict in requirements between the Marine Licence and the Works Licence.
Please note that Works Licences may also be required for certain activities within other specific areas under the control of some Island Councils, such as Orkney and Shetland, and details may be obtained from the local authority.