This service is managed by Enterprise and Economic Growth
Seabed and foreshore management
The seabed and foreshore around Orkney are owned, and you need permission before using them for most purposes. Crown Estate Scotland manages this on behalf of the Scottish Government, covering the seabed and coastline out to 12 nautical miles.
We take part in a Local Marine Asset Management Pilot Programme, which considers local values and priorities when new seabed agreements are being decided. This includes:
- recognising traditional and new uses of the sea
- protecting biodiversity through research and environmental protection
- supporting sustainable development
- consulting local people and organisations
- reporting marine development decisions and activity openly
How we assess applications
We consider each application against our published plans and priorities, including the Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan, adopted by Scottish Ministers in 2026, which sets out how development and activity in Orkney's waters should be managed.
Applying for a seabed agreement
- Review our marine development criteria and published plans.
- Contact our Pilot Officer with any questions. They'll log your interest and point you toward other resources you may need.
- Download and complete the enquiry form, to the best of your knowledge, and email it to us.
- We'll send you and Crown Estate Scotland a feedback form with comments or recommendations on your project.
Crown Estate Scotland may choose whether to involve our Pilot Officer in initial discussions with you, and they retain all rights and final decisions on seabed agreements and specific tenancy negotiations.
Related resources
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Seabed Agreement Enquiry Form
This document contains a questionnaire for people or organisations seeking seabed leases, licences or related agreements in Orkney’s delegated marine sectors. It asks for details about the applicant, proposed activity, location, equipment, infrastructure, staffing, local jobs, supply chains and environmental or community plans. Orkney Islands Council will assess applications and provide local advice, while Crown Estate Scotland keeps responsibility for final decisions and agreement negotiations.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
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General Operating Procedure for Seabed Agreement Enquiries in Orkney Marine Region
This document contains the process for handling seabed agreement enquiries in the Orkney Marine Region. It explains how applicants submit an enquiry, how the Orkney Islands Council pilot officer checks proposals against local plans and gives feedback, and how Crown Estate Scotland carries out its own checks. Applicants may need to make changes based on local recommendations. Crown Estate Scotland keeps responsibility for all final decisions and tells the Council the outcome.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.