Authorisation changes for rodenticide use in open areas
BASC is advising members of forthcoming changes to the legal authorisation of two second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARS).
New rodenticide regulations prompt training course update
A revised training course is now available to help gamekeepers and rural professionals meet new government rodenticide regulations, supported by CRRU UK and key organisations across the sector.
As of 1 January this year, the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) in open areas, other than in connection with a building, is no longer permitted.
In response to these regulatory changes, the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use UK (CRRU UK) has updated its Code of Best Practice. Product authorisation holders have revised the labelling on rodenticide products to reflect the new restrictions, too.
New certification requirements from 2026
From 1 January 2026, anyone wishing to purchase professional rodenticides must either:
- Hold a certificate from an approved training course completed within the last five years, or
- Combine an older certificate with active membership of a CRRU UK-recognised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme.
Further details on certification and CPD requirements can be found on the CRRU UK website.
Updated training course now available
In response to the updated regulations, a coalition of gamekeeping sector organisations including BASC, Countryside Alliance (CA), Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO), and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA), has worked with CRRU UK and examination provider BASIS to revise the Rodent Control for Gamekeepers and Rural Environments course.
The updated course includes a one-day training session followed by an online examination. Successful candidates will receive a certificate valid for five years, enabling them to continue purchasing and using professional-use rodenticides.
Working together on compliance
Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and gundogs and the gamekeeping sector representative on CRRU UK, said: “Working together, we’ve updated the sector’s course to reflect recent regulatory changes and incorporate the latest best practice guidance. Rodenticides remain a key control method, but they must be used only when absolutely necessary, and in the correct way. This course provides that essential knowledge along with the accreditation needed.”
Nigel Cheeseright, Chairman of CRRU UK, added: “It is good to see the proactive approach the gamekeeping sector is taking to prepare for the changes CRRU UK has initiated to strengthen professional rodenticide product stewardship. It is important for all professional rodenticide users to understand the impact the changes will have on them and take action now if they wish to purchase these products from 1 January 2026.”
How to enrol on the rodenticide training course
Gamekeepers and others working in the rural sector who need to update their certification are encouraged to attend the new course well ahead of the 2026 deadline.
For further details on CPD and certification requirements, visit the CRRU UK’s training and certification page.
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