Natural England - Regulation and licensing
Regulation and licensing
Regulation affects a number of areas relating to the natural environment and Natural England's approach is set out in our Regulatory Strategy. We are implementing the Government’s regulatory reform agenda to provide a simpler and better regulatory service to our customers.
Scope of regulation
There is already considerable regulation affecting the management of wildlife, including licensing of activities.
Environmental protection is influenced by new European legislation, in particular the Environmental Damage Regulations.
There are also regulations controlling:
significant changes in the use/management of agricultural land
the management of hedges
the impact of stock on grazing land.
Regulatory Guidance and other information
All of our guidance, best practice guides and information relating to Natural England’s regulatory role is given in the List of Regulatory Guidance, Best Practice and Information 
. Each entry provides a link to the documents. Publication of this list is part of the Government’s commitment to the Code of Practice on Guidance on Regulation.
Legislation to protect the places we enjoy
There is substantial legislation relating to the designation of land to protect wildlife and geology and landscapes.
Implementation of the open access legislation contained in the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 includes regulation for temporary closure.
Natural England also has enforcement responsibilities and powers, set out in our Enforcement Policy and Strategy.
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Badgers
Badgers and their setts are protected. Advice on their management and control, including licensing.