The otter is protected in UK, European and international law. As well as direct protection for the animals, protection is also provided for the places they use for shelter, giving birth, rearing young (holts) and resting (loafing areas) are also protected. These places are usually located on or close to the banks of rivers and streams and are usually very well hidden.

It is important that the presence of otters is identified on any development site where they are likely to be present as this will have implications for both the development and the construction process.  A Habitats Regulations licence is required for any works with the potential to disturb otters.