LEGISLATION
The Government has confirmed when new restrictions on the sale and use of lead ammunition will take effect across England, Scotland and Wales.
The measures follow recommendations from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The previous Conservative government had concerns about the impact of lead ammunition on human health and the environment, and asked HSE to produce a report on the issue.
The new rules introduce a phased approach, with key restrictions coming into force between April 2028 and April 2029. The changes are intended to reduce environmental, wildlife and human exposure to lead.
What is changing
Under the confirmed timetable, most restrictions will take effect on 1 April 2029.
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Firearm type
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What is changing
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When it comes into force
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Impact on pest control
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Shotguns
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Sale and use of lead shot for live quarry and recreational target shooting banned
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1 April 2029
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May affect pest control where shotguns are used for species such as pigeons. Non-lead alternatives will be required.
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Rifles (6.17mm calibre and above)
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Sale and use of lead bullets for live quarry shooting banned
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1 April 2029
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Limited direct impact for most pest controllers, but relevant for larger calibre wildlife management.
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Rifles (below 6.17mm calibre)
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No restriction introduced
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No change
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Common pest control calibres remain permitted with lead ammunition.
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Outdoor target shooting (rifles)
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Use of lead bullets restricted unless ranges meet risk-management requirements
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1 April 2028
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Primarily affects sporting and target shooting rather than pest management.
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Airguns
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No restrictions on lead pellets
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No change
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Air rifles commonly used for pest control remain unaffected.
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The Government has confirmed that small-calibre rifles with calibres below 6.17mm, including those commonly used in pest control, will not be affected by the new restrictions.
In addition, there are no planned restrictions on the sale or use of lead airgun pellets, meaning these remain permitted for both target shooting and pest control purposes.
What this means for pest professionals
For most pest management professionals, the immediate impact of the changes is expected to be limited.
Small-calibre rifles frequently used for pest species such as rats and rabbits fall below the threshold covered by the new rules, and airgun pellets remain unaffected.
However, the wider transition away from lead ammunition is likely to continue over time as environmental concerns and regulatory pressure increase.
Niall Gallagher, Technical Compliance Manager at BPCA, said:
“The Government’s confirmation of the timetable gives the shooting and pest management sectors much-needed clarity.
“It’s particularly important for pest professionals that small-calibre rifles and airgun pellets remain outside the scope of these restrictions, as these are commonly used tools for controlling pest species safely and effectively.
“As with any regulatory change, our advice is to keep informed and review your equipment and practices well ahead of the implementation dates.”
A long-running debate
Lead ammunition has been under increasing scrutiny for a number of years due to its potential environmental and health impacts.
Concerns include the risk of lead being ingested by wildlife and the potential for lead fragments to enter the human food chain when game shot with lead ammunition is consumed.
Manufacturers are already developing and promoting non-lead alternatives, and industry bodies are expected to publish further guidance as the implementation dates approach.
BPCA will continue to monitor developments and share updates with members where changes may affect professional pest management.
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