Reptile Surveys in Kent
Do I need a reptile survey for my development in Kent?
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 Kent?
Kent is one of the UK’s key reptile counties, with coastal grassland, heathland patches, chalk downland, brownfield land and rural margins supporting all widespread UK species.
A reptile survey assesses an area to determine which reptile species are present and whether they could be affected by development. Ecologists search, trap, and record reptiles over time to understand their distribution. The findings help ensure that construction or land changes avoid harming wildlife and comply with planning regulations.
Planning officers in Kent often require reptile surveys when development could disturb suitable habitats or areas where reptiles may be present.
You may need a reptile survey if your project involves:
coastal development or marsh-edge works along the Kent coastline and estuaries
grassland, scrub, or rough ground across rural and urban sites
brownfield or former industrial land in towns such as Maidstone, Canterbury or Dover
rural housing, agricultural conversions, or plot subdivisions in areas like Tonbridge, Ashford or Sevenoaks
any activity flagged as potentially affecting reptiles in a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) anywhere in Kent
A quick postcode check reveals if your site sits within likely reptile habitat.
We provide reptile surveys across Kent, covering key areas including Maidstone, Canterbury, Ashford, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Dartford, Gravesend, Dover, and Folkestone.
Why Planning Officers in Kent Request Reptile Surveys
Kent 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 often delayed through validation queries, additional conditions, or seasonal survey requirements that can disrupt project programmes and lead to unnecessary redesign.
Local Case Insight
How Reptile Surveys Work
Our specialist ecology team carries out a Reptile Survey and confirms presence or risk. You receive a clear, LPA-ready report setting out mitigation and timing controls to keep your project moving.
Key Deliverables for projects in Kent:
We provide a clear, proportionate, practical approach which includes:
- Habitat suitability assessment for reptiles
- Presence/absence surveys using refugia
- Proportionate mitigation recommendations
- Practical site clearance advice (where needed)
- LPA compliant reports
- Advice on timing and site preparation
- Clear communication with your design team or contractor
We help you plan works across Kent 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 Kent? Let’s confirm your site’s requirements and keep your project on track.
FAQ - Reptile Surveys in Kent
How do I know if reptiles are on my site in Kent?
We assess the habitat conditions rather than relying on visual sightings.
For planning checks and guidance:
- Canterbury City Council Planning https://www.canterbury.gov.uk/planning-and-building/search-and-comment-planning-applications
- Maidstone Borough Council Planning https://www.maidstone.gov.uk/home/primary-services/planning-and-building/planning
- Swale Borough Council Planning https://swale.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration/find-a-planning-application
- Ashford Borough Council Planning https://www.ashford.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control
- Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council Planning https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/services/planning-and-environment/planning
When are reptile surveys carried out in Kent?
Usually April–September, subject to suitable weather.
Can I clear land before reptile surveys in Kent?
Not if condition suggests reptile habitat — we’ll advise safe sequencing.
Will reptiles delay planning in Kent?
Not with early checks and proportionate mitigation.
