Activities that would damage Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve are controlled under the LNR Byelaws. Permits are, or may be, required for activities including wildfowling, puntgunning, scientific research and photography. Also special permission is need by anyone wishing to enter the main sanctuary area which covers the mudflats in the centre of the LNR.

The rights of landowners or occupiers, rights of white fishing in tidal waters, rights to salmon netting, and rights of navigation are not affected by the Byelaws. Activities that may harm the LNR are subject to a management system including the issuing of permits and public notices that will ensure responsible and sustainable use.

The permit or public notice states to whom it applies, when it is valid for, the area the activity is allowed in and any limits (e.g. total take) that might be set. The permits are issued to individuals or groups and the public notice allows larger groups e.g. bait collectors to act in the LNR. The permits and public notice are issued by Dumfries and Galloway Council on the advice of the Wigtown Bay LNR Management Committee.

All permits must be applied for in advance, are on first come first served basis and are free of charge.