Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) evaluates the likely significant environmental effects of a proposed development. It ensures these impacts are considered before making a decision.
When is an EIA required?
All Schedule 1 developments need an EIA to be completed. These developments include:
- those listed in the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017
- large-scale projects with significant environmental effects, such as:
- airports
- oil refineries
- motorways
Schedule 1 projects are normally handled by the Scottish Government.
Schedule 2 developments may require an EIA depending on size, nature, or location. Examples of these developments include:
- wind turbines
- certain industrial developments
- golf courses
- large housing proposals
The criteria for determining if an EIA is needed are in Schedule 3 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2013.
Schedule 2 projects are generally assessed by us.
How to confirm if an EIA is needed
You can request:
- Screening opinion - to confirm whether your project requires an EIA.
- Scoping opinion - if an EIA is required, this sets out the issues that the assessment must cover.
Requesting a screening opinion
A screening opinion confirms if your development needs an EIA and explains the criteria used to make this decision.
You can request a screening opinion before submitting your application or when submitting it. If no screening opinion has been issued, we will carry out screening when your application is received.
Download and complete the EIA Screening Opinion form and email it with your supporting information to eplanning@highland.gov.uk.
We aim to issue screening opinions within 21 days, unless more time is agreed.
Further information:
Requesting a scoping opinion
If you intend to prepare an EIA report, you can request a scoping opinion from the council. This clarifies the scope and level of detail required in your report.
Scoping is not mandatory but highly recommended. Missing key information can delay your application.
Download and complete the EIA Scoping Opinion form and email it with supporting information to eplanning@highland.gov.uk.
How we prepare a scoping opinion
We consult statutory bodies and relevant internal services to ensure all necessary issues are addressed.
We aim to issue scoping opinions within 35 days of your request, unless more time is agreed.