An ecologist is a MCIEEM-qualified specialist who assesses the ecological value of a site and the potential impact of proposed development on wildlife, habitats and protected species. In the UK, ecology reports are required by planning authorities on the vast majority of planning applications - from new housing developments to barn conversions and demolitions. The ecologist's role begins at pre-application stage and may continue through construction into post-completion habitat monitoring.
What they do
- Carry out Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (Phase 1 Habitat Surveys)
- Survey for protected species - bats, great crested newts, otters, dormice and reptiles
- Prepare Ecological Impact Assessments for planning applications
- Calculate Biodiversity Net Gain using the DEFRA biodiversity metric
- Prepare Biodiversity Gain Plans and Habitat Management Plans
- Liaise with Natural England and local planning authority ecologists
- Advise on mitigation and enhancement measures
- Carry out post-construction ecological monitoring
When you need one
If any of the following applies to your project, an ecologist should be appointed before submitting a planning application - some surveys have seasonal constraints that can delay a project by months if not planned in advance.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) | £600 - £1,500 |
| Protected species survey (per species) | £400 - £1,200 |
| Ecological Impact Assessment | £1,500 - £5,000+ |
| Biodiversity net gain assessment | £800 - £2,500 |
| Habitat Management Plan | £600 - £2,000 |
| Hourly rate | £65 - £110 / hr |
Costs vary by site size, number of species surveys required and location. Always appoint before surveys are needed as seasonal constraints may otherwise cause project delays.
Qualifications to look for
The primary qualification for ecologists carrying out surveys for planning purposes. Requires a relevant degree, supervised experience and a professional competence assessment. Check membership at cieem.net.
Ecologists carrying out surveys for protected species such as bats, great crested newts, water voles and dormice must hold a relevant Natural England survey licence. Ask to see licence details before appointing for protected species work.
The academic foundation for MCIEEM membership. An MSc in a relevant discipline (Ecology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Management) is common among practitioners.
How to find a reputable ecologist
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need an ecologist for a planning application?
The National Planning Policy Framework requires local planning authorities to refuse applications that would cause significant harm to biodiversity that cannot be mitigated. Most applications for development on land with ecological value or near protected habitats require an ecology report prepared by a MCIEEM ecologist before the local planning authority will validate the application.
What is a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal?
A PEA (also called a Phase 1 Habitat Survey) is a desk study and walkover survey that identifies habitats and the potential for protected species. It determines whether further surveys are needed and is the starting point for almost all ecology work on development sites. Most planning authorities require a PEA as a minimum for any development on undeveloped or semi-natural land.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
From April 2024 most planning applications in England must demonstrate a 10% net gain in biodiversity value above the pre-development baseline, calculated using the DEFRA biodiversity metric. A MCIEEM ecologist carries out the baseline habitat survey and metric calculation, and prepares the Biodiversity Gain Plan required by the local planning authority.