Crofting Commission Issues Final Reminder for 2026 Annual Notice Returns
The Crofting Commission is today issuing a final reminder to all crofters that the deadline for submitting their Annual Notice is 6 April 2026.
The Annual Notice is a mandatory legal requirement. Every year, crofters are required by law to provide the Commission with specific information to confirm they are complying with their statutory duties. This includes confirming whether they are resident on or near their croft, and ensuring the land is being cultivated or put to another purposeful use. Whilst the requirement to confirm they are meeting their duties will change with the implementation of the new Crofting and Scottish Land Court Act, this year, (2026), crofters must still provide an accurate return.
With the deadline fast approaching, the Commission is urging those who have not yet responded to do so immediately. Failure to return the notice is a breach of duty and will result in further action.
Commissioner Iain Maciver commented:
“The Annual Notice is not optional; it is a legal obligation for every person holding a croft. We use this data to ensure that crofting law is being followed and that the Crofting Register is accurate. To date, many have already complied, but for those who have not, the window is closing. The Commission will be taking formal action against those who fail to return their notice by the 6 April deadline.”
How to Submit
Crofters can complete their return in the following ways:
Online: Submissions can be made quickly via the Crofting Commission’s official website, most returns take less than three minutes to complete.
Phone: Crofters can call the Crofting Commission’s dedicated Annual Notice support line on 01463 663488.
Following the deadline, the Commission will begin the process of identifying non-responders. This may lead to formal investigations into suspected breaches of duty, which can carry serious legal consequences for the tenancy or ownership of the croft.
For further information or to complete your notice online, please visit www.crofting.scotland.gov.uk.