Reptile surveys can be undertaken between April to October however, the optimal survey periods are April to May inclusively and September to October inclusively, as during the summer months reptiles are active early in the day and can be under-recorded. Reptile surveys must be undertaken at a suitable time of day and in appropriate weather conditions. 

Where sand lizard or smooth snake are present and impacted by proposed development, a reptile mitigation licence may be required from the relevant statutory authority.

The level of mitigation that may be required is dependent upon the scale of impact caused by the proposed development and could involve seasonal restrictions to avoid impacting hibernating reptiles.