The 2016–17 SPFL Development League was the 19th season of the highest youth Scottish football league and the third season under the "Development League" format.
The league remained at 17 teams.
All twelve 2016–17 Scottish Premiership clubs participated in the league, with Dundee United, Dunfermline Athletic, Falkirk, Hibernian and St Mirren making up the numbers.
[2] Eligible players were those born in 1997 or later, but five players of any age were permitted in the matchday squad of 18.
The result of a match between Dunfermline and Motherwell on 21 February was annulled, and a 3–0 win awarded to Motherwell, because Dunfermline fielded a player who was under suspension from the Scottish Football Association.