What It Means for the Pest Control Industry

The Scottish Government has confirmed that the use of rodent glue traps will be banned in Scotland from 1 July 2026, following the introduction of new legislation under the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act.

While the change applies specifically to Scotland, it reflects a wider shift in how pest control tools are being regulated across the UK. For pest professionals, this development highlights the importance of maintaining high standards, adopting responsible control methods, and staying informed about evolving legislation.

The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) is encouraging pest management professionals to view the upcoming changes as an opportunity to reinforce best practice and strengthen integrated pest management approaches.

 

A Changing Regulatory Landscape

Over recent years, the regulatory environment surrounding pest control has continued to evolve. Discussions around animal welfare, environmental protection and public perception have all influenced how certain control methods are viewed by policymakers.

Scotland has now taken the step of prohibiting the use and supply of glue traps for rodent control entirely, with the ban coming into force in July 2026.

Although the legislation only applies to Scotland, pest control businesses operating across the UK will recognise that regulation in one nation often signals wider policy discussions across the sector. As such, it is important for pest professionals to remain engaged with these developments and to ensure their practices remain both effective and defensible.

 

Reinforcing Professional Pest Management

The NPTA has long advocated for a professional, evidence-based approach to pest control, where control measures form part of a wider integrated pest management strategy rather than being relied upon as standalone solutions.

Key elements of this approach include:

• Prevention through proofing and exclusion
• Environmental management and hygiene improvements
• Monitoring and inspection programmes
• Appropriate use of trapping and control methods
• Clear communication with clients on long-term solutions

By focusing on prevention and long-term control strategies, pest professionals can help reduce reliance on any single method and ensure pest management remains both effective and responsible.

 

Preparing for the Future

Although the ban does not come into force until July 2026, pest control companies working in Scotland should begin reviewing their current practices and considering how the changes may affect their operational procedures.

Preparation may include:

• Reviewing pest management protocols
• Assessing alternative control methods where required
• Ensuring technicians are trained in a range of control strategies
• Communicating regulatory changes to affected clients
• Updating risk assessments and service plans where appropriate

Early preparation will help ensure businesses remain compliant while continuing to deliver effective pest control services.

 

Supporting the Industry

As the professional association representing pest controllers and pest control businesses across the UK, the NPTA will continue to monitor developments around glue board legislation and other regulatory changes affecting the sector.

Where appropriate, the NPTA will engage with policymakers and industry partners to ensure that the voice of pest professionals is represented in discussions that affect public health, safety and the practical realities of pest management.

Members will be kept informed of any further developments, guidance or industry discussions relating to this issue.