Planning constraints and protected areas

If you are planning building work or development, you must check if your site is in a protected or constrained area. These include nature sites, flood risk areas, protected trees, contaminated land, pipelines and former mining areas.

These factors can affect whether you get planning permission, what you need to submit, or how your development must be designed. We may consult other organisations before making a decision. You should check early and contact us if you are unsure.

Nature protected areas

Some areas are protected because of important wildlife or habitats.

These include:

• Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)
• Special Protection Areas (SPAs)
• Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)

If your proposal may affect one of these sites, we will consult NatureScot and consider their advice before making a decision.

Trees and protected landscapes

Trees can be legally protected in several ways:

• planning conditions may protect trees on development sites
• Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) mean you must get our permission before carrying out work. See Circular 1 2011 - Tree Preservation Orders from the Scottish Government.
• conservation areas require you to give us six weeks’ notice before working on trees

It is an offence to damage or remove protected trees without permission.

Flood risk

Flooding can affect where and how you build. In some cases, it may prevent development.

You can check flood risk using SEPA’s flood maps. For larger proposals, we recommend speaking to us and SEPA before you apply.

Contaminated land

Some land may contain harmful substances from past uses.

If you are developing a site, you must check for contamination and make it safe. We will only grant planning permission if the land is suitable for its new use.

See more information on developing on contaminated land.

Pipelines and safety zones

Some areas have high‑pressure pipelines with safety buffer zones. These may restrict development.

We will consult the pipeline operator and use Health and Safety Executive guidance when assessing your application.

Coal mining risk

Parts of South Lanarkshire may be affected by past mining.

You may need a Coal Mining Risk Assessment if your site is in a high‑risk area. This helps make sure your development is safe and stable.

More information is available on the Coal mining legacy risks page.

Take action

• check if your site is in a protected area
• review flood risk and ground conditions
• apply for planning permission
• contact us for early advice

Further guidance is available from NatureScot, SEPA, the Health and Safety Executive and the Mining Remediation Authority.