Natural England has announced changes to its wildlife licensing application and reporting forms, with new digital services launching from 3 August 2026.
New online form for bird licences
From 3 August, licence holders using A08 and A09 licences to kill, take or disturb wild birds will need to use a new online return and renewal form on GOV.UK. The online service will replace the downloadable forms currently available.
The main change is that licence returns and renewals must now be completed at the same time. Anyone wishing to renew their licence will need to request renewal when submitting their report of action. If a renewal is not requested at that stage, a new licence application will be required.
Natural England says the combined form is designed to simplify the process. It brings reporting and renewal into a single service and includes step-by-step guidance, helping applicants provide the information and evidence required, including records of non-lethal action.
The GOV.UK pages for these licences will also be updated, replacing downloadable forms with online start buttons and improved guidance.
Natural England has also reminded licence users that the new A35 dormouse digital application form will launch on 3 August 2026.
More class licence forms moving online
Natural England is continuing its programme to digitise wildlife licensing services. Over the coming months, registration and reporting forms for most class licences will move online.
Users can expect updates to GOV.UK licence pages, including improved guidance and online application routes. Existing class licence registrants will receive email notifications when new forms become available.
Natural England is encouraging users to provide feedback on the new digital services through the online forms. Support remains available through the organisation's enquiries team.
The changes form part of Natural England's wider effort to make wildlife licensing applications and reporting quicker and easier to complete.
GOT QUESTIONS ABOUT BIRD LICENCES?
Members can get technical pest control support direct from the team.
technical@bpca.org.uk