Under Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024

The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) has written to the Scottish Government to seek clarification regarding the forthcoming glue trap provisions contained within the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024, which are due to come into force on 1 July 2026.

Following the circulation of industry commentary suggesting that glue traps may still be permitted in certain circumstances where a “reasonable excuse” applies, the NPTA contacted the Scottish Government to confirm the correct interpretation of the legislation and ensure that pest management professionals receive clear and accurate guidance.

 

Clarification from the Scottish Government

The Scottish Government has confirmed that, from 1 July 2026, it will be an offence in Scotland to:

• Use a glue trap for the purpose of taking, killing or restraining any animal
• Set a glue trap in a manner likely to cause injury to any animal
• Supply or offer to supply a glue trap
• Possess a glue trap

The legislation does not apply to invertebrates.

Individuals found guilty of offences under the legislation may be liable on summary conviction to:

• Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months
• A fine not exceeding £40,000
• Or both

Conviction on indictment may result in:

• Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years
• An unlimited fine
• Or both

Importantly, the Scottish Government has confirmed that there are currently no plans to introduce a licensing scheme under Section 5 of the Act. While provision exists within the legislation for a licensing scheme to be introduced via secondary legislation if required, Ministers have not indicated any intention to implement such a scheme at this time.

 

Addressing Industry Commentary on “Reasonable Excuse”

Some industry commentary has suggested that glue traps may still be permitted where a “reasonable excuse” exists. Based on clarification received from the Scottish Government, the position from 1 July 2026 is that the use, supply and possession of glue traps for vertebrate animals will be prohibited, and the Government has not indicated that a general “reasonable excuse” exemption will apply.

The NPTA recognises the importance of ensuring pest management professionals are able to plan ahead and adopt appropriate alternative control methods where required.

 

NPTA Engagement with Government and Stakeholders

Following correspondence from the NPTA, the Scottish Government has confirmed that the Association has now been added to the stakeholder circulation list for pest management policy in Scotland.

The Scottish Government has also confirmed that it is engaging with industry bodies and enforcement partners, including:

• The pest management sector
• Police Scotland
• The Scottish SPCA

This collaborative approach aims to ensure awareness of the legislative changes and promote understanding of alternative pest control methods.

Kevin Lawrenson, CEO of the NPTA, said:

 

Supporting Members Through Legislative Change

The NPTA will continue to work with government departments, industry stakeholders and members to ensure clear, practical guidance is available ahead of the implementation date.

We recognise that legislative changes affecting pest management practices must be supported by clear communication and appropriate transition planning. The NPTA will provide further updates as additional information becomes available.

Members with questions regarding the forthcoming changes are encouraged to contact the NPTA technical team on technical@npta.org.uk.