Working together

COVID-19 Protection Levels - Argyll and Bute is lockdown, except for some islands which are at Level 3

Due to the Coronavirus situation, there are changes to a number of our services.

We will update this page with changes to services as they arise, and will continue to share information that may be of use to you, on our social media and digital channels.

Changes to the licensing process – COVID 19

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Scottish Government has introduced some changes to the licensing process which mainly relate to the extension of timescales. Updated information is available below. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact the licensing section either by e-mail at licensing@argyll-bute.gov.uk or by phone on 01546 604128.

Changes to alcohol licensing due to the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020

As well as changes to the processes for alcohol licensing, this will also affect those who currently hold licences as detailed below or those making applications in relation to:

  • Boat hire
  • Booking office
  • Metal dealer
  • Knife dealer
  • Late hours catering
  • Market operator
  • Private hire operator
  • Private hire driver
  • Taxi operator
  • Taxi driver
  • Public entertainment
  • Second hand goods dealers
  • Street trader
  • Tattooing and skin piercing
  • Window cleaner

These are known as Civic Government licenses.

Changes to Civic Government licensing in terms of the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020

Burials and cremations

Advice to the public is that immediate family only should attend funerals, keeping social distancing rules in place at all times.

Housing Support services

There are changes to how you can currently access Housing Support Services, due to the offices of HELP (housing support for 16 - 24 year olds in Bute and Cowal) and Carr Gomm (housing support for all ages across Argyll and Bute, and over 25s in Bute and Cowal) being currently closed

You can still access these services by phoning their dedicated support lines - find our full details in our Housing Support section

Building Standards and Planning and Development Services

Council offices remain closed to members of the public, following government advice on the actions we must all take to stay safe from coronavirus. We would ask anyone therefore wishing to submit documents/applications that this is done either via the Scottish Government Portal or electronically to the appropriate area office

You can find out more details of the phased resumption of site visits, and how to get in touch with Planning and Building Standards, submit comments on applications, submit casework for applications and get pre-application advice,  here on our website:

Coronavirus service changes - Planning

Coronavirus service changes - Building Standards

Private Water Supplies

Private Water Supplies (PWS) - Grants

We are currently still accepting PWS grant applications, where a suitable risk assessment already exists this will be provided to applicants with details for next steps, where a new risk assessment is required you will be advised and we will contact you as soon as restrictions enable, to make further arrangements. If you are submitting a payment request we will contact you when we are able to start visits again.

Private Water Supplies (PWS) – Risk Assessments and Sampling

Currently all sampling and risk assessment visits are suspended unless we assess there is an immediate public health need for them to go ahead. Should you contact us to arrange a visit you will be provided with guidance on alternatives or any interim action that can be taken dependant on your needs.

Private Water Supplies (PWS) – General Advice and Assistance

We continue to be able to offer advice and assistance remotely. Should you wish to contact us. Call 01546 605519, or email pws@argyll-bute.gov.uk

Access to the outdoors during Coronavirus

Guidance for the public and land managers during the Coronavirus pandemic is available on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code website