Farmers and growers need to prepare for important changes in access to professional second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). These changes were initially announced in May 2023 by the CRRU (Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use) and will take effect from January 2026. All users of professional-grade rodenticides will need an approved training certificate in rodenticide use, marking a significant shift from the previous situation where membership of a stewardship-approved farm assurance scheme was accepted as proof of competence.
Proof of Competence
From January 2026, farmers and growers must provide proof of competence in one of two ways to purchase professional-grade rodenticides:
- Complete a CRRU-approved training certificate every five years.
- Complete a CRRU-approved training certificate once and be a member of a CRRU-approved CPD scheme.
Currently, there are only two CRRU-approved CPD schemes: BASIS Prompt and BPCA Registered. From January 2026, unless you are a member of one of these schemes, certification will need to be repeated every five years.
Restrictions on use
Since the announcement in May 2023, some restrictions have already started to apply. From 4th July 2024, SGARs authorised for open-area or waste-dump use can no longer be sold. From 1st January 2025, it is illegal to use any SGAR product in open countryside, hedgerows, fields, or waste-dump sites – use is strictly limited to “in and around buildings.”
The definition of “building” has also been clarified: only permanent, enclosed structures with foundations qualify, so temporary shelters or movable structures do not count. Users must follow these rules carefully to remain compliant.
Approved training courses
A list of CRRU-approved training courses can be found at: Training & Certification – Think Wildlife. From January 2026, completion of one of these courses will be required to buy professional-strength rodenticides.
The importance of staying compliant
Failure to meet the new training and usage requirements could result in loss of access to SGAR products and potential legal liability. It’s essential to ensure your certification is current, you understand where products can be legally applied, and you follow product labels precisely.
Read more here: Professional rodenticide users have two years to prepare for changes – Think Wildlife
Further help & advice
For further help and advice on the new rodenticide rules, please contact the CXCS Farm Assurance team on 01981 590514.