New best practice on rodenticide use for gamekeepers and rural control

The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use UK (CRRU UK) has published an updated code of best practice, following new regulatory changes that took effect on 1 January 2025. These updates directly affect gamekeepers, pest controllers, and others using professional-grade rodenticides in the countryside.

Under the new rules, second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) can no longer be used in open areas unless directly connected to a building. A further change, taking effect from 1 January 2026, will require anyone purchasing professional rodenticides to have completed an approved training course within the past five years or maintain an older certificate with active CPD membership through a CRRU UK-approved provider.

In response, a coalition of countryside and gamekeeping bodies — including BASC, the Countryside Alliance, GWCT, the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) — collaborated with CRRU UK and BASIS to update the Rodent Control for Gamekeepers and Rural Environments course.

The revised course includes a one-day training session followed by an online exam, with successful participants earning a five-year valid certification required for professional rodenticide purchases.

“Rodenticides remain a key control method,” said Glynn Evans, gamekeeping sector representative at CRRU UK, “but they must be used only when absolutely necessary – and in the correct way.”

The course ensures both regulatory compliance and best practice application, supporting effective and responsible pest control across the UK’s rural landscape.