Reptile Surveys in Cornwall
Do I need a reptile survey for my development in Cornwall?
If your project may affect a reptile habitats, a professional survey is essential — we provide compliant reports to support planning consent.
Fast, Clear, Planning-Ready Support
Fast response
Calls answered in 2 rings, emails replied to within the hour.
Free expert advice
Clear guidance before you commit.
Cost-effective
Working in partnership with clients to ensure planning approval first time
Typical 10-day turnaround
Industry Leading Standard
Expert Team
We stay with you from first call through to submission.
Do you need a Reptile Survey in Cornwall?
Cornwall’s coastal grassland, heathland, scrub, pasture edges and disused land create suitable habitat for common reptiles including slow worms, grass snakes and common lizards.
A reptile survey assesses whether reptiles are present and evaluates the potential impacts of development. Ecologists carry out repeated surveys using refugia and visual search methods to record species and population distribution. Findings help design mitigation strategies and support planning compliance. Cornwall Council often requests reptile surveys where suitable habitat could be affected.
You may need a reptile survey if your project involves:
clearance of grassland or scrub between March–October near Truro or St Austell
development on coastal or heathland margins
works affecting hedgerows, field edges or woodland patches
infrastructure crossing rural or semi-natural land
any site flagged for reptile potential during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA)
A postcode review can indicate whether your site is within likely reptile habitat.
We provide reptile surveys across Cornwall, including Truro, Newquay, Penzance and St Austell.
Why Planning Officers in Cornwall Request Reptile Surveys
Cornwall planning authorities require reptile survey evidence where suitable habitat is present to ensure development complies with the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and national planning policy. Without early, proportionate evidence, applications are frequently delayed through validation queries, requests for further ecological information, or seasonal survey constraints that can halt project programmes and necessitate design amendments.
Local Case Insight
How Reptile Surveys Work
We take a practical, proportionate approach, carrying out reptile presence checks and habitat assessments, identifying areas of suitable habitat, and inspecting grassland, scrub, rough ground, and brownfield sites before works begin. Our Reptile Survey reports provide clear mitigation and timing recommendations, are fully LPA-ready, and outline any precautionary measures required to protect reptiles. We also give straightforward next steps for contractors, focusing on clarity and practical guidance so your project can proceed safely and confidently.
Key Deliverables for projects in Cornwall:
We provide a clear, proportionate, practical approach which includes:
- Habitat suitability assessment
- Presence/absence reptile surveys using approved refugia methods
- Targeted mitigation strategies (only where necessary)
- Timing guidance for clearance and works
- Reporting designed for LPA validation
- Next steps tailored to designers, planners and contractors
We help you plan works across Cornwall safely around reptile habitats, ensuring compliance while keeping your project on schedule.
Step 1
Schedule
Send your site details and programme. We confirm the correct level of survey.
Step 2
Fieldwork
Site walkovers, habitat suitability assessments, refugia checks, and activity monitoring for reptiles.
Step 3
Reporting
Planning-ready reports with impact assessment, mitigation options and timelines for site teams.
Step 4
Integration with other Surveys
Only if needed. PEA, EIA, and Protected Species surveys
Next Steps
Need a reptile survey in Cornwall? Let’s confirm your site’s requirements and keep your project on track.
FAQ - Reptile Surveys in Cornwall
Are reptile surveys common in Cornwall?
Yes. Coastal grasslands, heathland, dunes, and disused farmland are all habitats that can support reptiles.
Which species are surveyed in Cornwall?
Common lizards, slow worms, grass snakes, and occasionally adders are monitored.
When is survey work undertaken?
The main window is March to October, with peak activity in spring and early autumn.
How are surveys performed on rural Cornwall sites?
Artificial refuges are set out and checked repeatedly, often over several weeks, to gather reliable data.
What mitigation options are typical in Cornwall?
Habitat retention, relocation to nearby suitable areas, or phased vegetation clearance are commonly recommended.
Can reptile surveys delay planning approvals in Cornwall?
Surveys outside the active season can delay approval, so early scheduling is important.
