This Order describes types of operation for the purposes of sections 14(1)(f) and 17(1)(f) of the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 (article 2). As a consequence of being so described, these operations do not require the consent of Scottish Natural Heritage under section 13 (operations by public bodies etc.) or 16 (operations by owners or occupiers of sites of special scientific interest) of that Act.

The Order also revokes the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 (Authorised Operations) Order 2011, which it replaces (article 3).

No business and regulatory impact assessment has been prepared for this Order as no impact upon business, charities or voluntary bodies is foreseen.