Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

Under s.140 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or take an animal that is a protected feature of a Marine Conservation Zone (where the act may significantly hinder the MCZ's conservation objectives). Spearfishing is therefore restricted or prohibited within designated MCZs (and equivalent Nature Conservation MPAs in Scotland, plus SACs/SPAs UK-wide). Specific site byelaws must be checked.