Swaling
Swaling
Swaling or controlled burning is a traditional, legal activity carried out to rejuvenate heather moorland and provide better grazing for livestock. It is normally carried out in the winter months, between 1st October and 15th April.
To prevent damage to nesting birds Exmoor National Park Authority recommends that swaling is not carried out after the end of March. However, Exmoor National Park Authority does NOT licence or control burning on privately owned land, or any Countryside Stewardship Schemes involving moorland management.. The regulation of burning is carried out by Natural England which ensures that swaling is done in accordance with the Heather & Grass Burning Regulations 2021 and the specific needs of the site.
You must contact Natural England if burning on a Site of Special Scientific Interest.