Offshore Activities
Geological and Seismic Survey
What Consents Required for Geological and Seismic Surveys
| Consent to Survey | Required for seismic survey; high resolution seismic site survey; borehole seismic; shallow drilling; and gravity/magnetic survey. |
| Notification of Survey | Only required for new pipeline or cable route survey, seabed survey not around existing installation or pipeline; and all surveys near or within a "relevant site" under the Regulations. |
| No Action Required | Inspection, repair and maintenance survey; surveys of existing pipelines or installations; pre/post-lay environmental surveys. |
What Consents Required for Geological and Seismic Surveys
| Sensitive Area* | Other Offshore Areas | Action Needed |
| 6+ months | - | Identify if any conditions on seismic survey are detailed in licence conditions. |
| 6+ months | - | Identify if the survey is in a sensitive area or near a site designated under the Habitats Directive. Early discussion with JNCC/DESNZ advised. An EIA or HRA may be needed. |
| 6+ months | - | Identify any important fishing grounds in the area. |
| 6+ months | - | If necessary, undertake EIA and prepare Environmental Statement (ES). |
| 6+ months | - | Identify window for survey to minimise environmental impacts. |
| 2 months | - | Prepare standalone permit submission, if applicable. |
| 1 month | 3 months | Submit Consent to Survey application to DESNZ, if applicable. |
| 1 month | 1 month | Submit Notification of Survey, if applicable. |
| Survey begins. | ||
Key Compliance During Seismic Survey
| ✔ | At least 30 minutes before operations begin, visually check for marine mammals within 500 m. Use hydrophones in poor visibility. |
| ✔ | If marine mammals are present, delay survey until they move away. Wait at least 20 minutes after the last sighting before starting. |
| ✔ | Where possible, start with low energy and slowly build up power over 20 minutes. Start 500 m away from seals near platforms. |
| ✔ | Use the lowest practicable power levels throughout the survey. |