Implement legislation relating to muirburn and revise Muirburn Code to regulate the use of all muirburn and only allow burning on peatland by exception for limited purposes.
Objective 1: Accelerate ecosystem restoration and regeneration
Priority Action 7. Ensure Grouse Moor management sustains healthy biodiversity
Legislative provisions relating to muirburn have not yet been fully implemented. The muirburn licensing system and revised Muirburn Code are scheduled to come into force in autumn 2026, as part of the phased commencement of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024 framework and associated secondary guidance. Until commencement, existing regulation and the current Muirburn Code continue to apply. The forthcoming changes are intended to introduce a more regulated system for muirburn activity, including stronger controls on when and where burning can take place, particularly on peatland, with restrictions expected to limit burning on peatland except in defined circumstances. At present, therefore, the strengthened regulatory regime is still in transition and not yet operational in practice.
Ecologically, this has high potential because muirburn directly affects peatland structure, carbon storage, and habitat condition for upland biodiversity. Limiting burning on peat soils is therefore likely to reduce degradation pressures and support restoration of bog and moorland ecosystems. However, the revised regulatory framework is not yet operational, so there is currently no evidence of reduced burning activity or measurable ecological improvement. Until commencement, outcomes remain dependent on the existing Code, which allows more permissive burning practices.
NatureScot – Muirburn Code (current guidance and status)
NatureScot – Consultation draft revised Muirburn Code (2025)
Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024
NatureScot – Muirburn licensing information
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