Which sites are exempt from BNG?

You might be pondering the question: Which sites are exempt from BNG?

Several types of developments are exempt from Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:

Existing Planning Applications: Developments with planning applications submitted before February 12, 2024 (the mandatory BNG start date) are exempt.

Developments Below the Threshold: Projects with minimal impact on biodiversity qualify for exemption if they meet certain criteria:

• They don’t affect any priority habitat.
• The development impacts less than:
  – 25 square meters of non-priority habitat.
  – 5 linear meters of habitats like hedgerows (hedgerow is a boundary line of closely spaced shrubs or small trees).
• Householder Applications: Minor building works like home extensions typically undertaken by homeowners are exempt.

Self-build and Custom Housebuilding: Small-scale self-build and custom housebuilding projects qualify if they meet all these conditions:

• No more than 9 dwellings are built.
• The total site area is no larger than 0.5 hectares (around 1.2 acres).
• The dwellings are exclusively for self-build or custom housebuilding as defined by specific legislation.

Other Exemptions:

• Developments specifically for biodiversity gain.
• High-speed rail projects.
• There may be other exemptions; it’s best to consult with the relevant authorities for the latest information.