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Local Government Services

A range of agencies provide public services in Shetland. The Shetland Islands Council offers all the usual local authority services and you can find detailed information on the Council’s website. The A-Z listing of services may be helpful.

Some services are also provided by Scottish Water and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Scottish Hydro Electric generally provides electricity but it’s possible to buy your power from other companies.

We’ve included information on this website about some of the ways that local economic development agencies may be able to help if you’re thinking of setting up a business. Some of the Council services you’re most likely to need before or soon after you arrive include:

  • The Shetland Library Enlarge photo

    The Shetland Library: an excellent starting point when looking for useful information about life in Shetland, it has its headquarters in this former church.

    The Shetland Library, which offers a wide range of information about every aspect of living in Shetland and also has excellent internet facilities, with up to 20 computers available for the 51 hours per week that the Library is open. Extensive software, printers and scanners are there for you to use and there’s also a hot drinks machine.
  • Electoral registration, which you need to do in order to be able to vote in elections. The telephone number is 01595 744550 and the e-mail address is assessor@shetland.gov.uk.
  • Council tax, which is paid by most residents: there are full details on the Council’s website.
  • The Education Service: there are contact details for all schools here.
  • Inter-island ferry Enlarge photo

    Inter-island ferries are operated by Shetland Islands Council.

    Internal ferry services: full details of timetables and fares are here and there are also telephone numbers for making bookings: you’ll usually need to give your vehicle registration number or your name.
  • Housing advice, which is available on the Council website, by e-mail to housing@shetland.gov.uk or by phoning 01595 744360. You can also contact the Hjaltland Housing Association on 01595 694986 or e-mail them at mail@hjaltland.org
  • The Planning Service website can help with information about planning policies, development management, building standards and heritage conservation. Alternatively, you can e-mail planning@shetland.gov.uk or telephone 01595 744140.
  • For details of refuse collection in your area, e-mail cleansing@shetland.gov.uk or telephone 01595 744800.

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