Captive bird housing requirements in force from 6 November 2025
Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) is in an avian influenza prevention zone (AIPZ). By law you must follow strict biosecurity and hygiene rules to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading.
In addition, on 6 November 2025, mandatory housing measures were extended to the whole of England.
You will have to house your birds in England if you keep either:
- more than 50 birds of any species – including poultry and other captive birds
- any number of poultry where they are kept to give away or sell eggs, poultry products or live birds
You do not have to house your birds if you keep less than 50 birds and their eggs or poultry products are for your own use only.
Visit gov.uk to find out how to house your birds safely and familiarise yourself with how to spot and report symptoms. If your birds have any symptoms of Bird Flu you are required by law to report these to the DEFRA's Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200301 as its classified as a notifiable disease.
In the declaration for the AIPZ in England you can read further information on the requirements for certain types of bird.
It is also a legal requirement to register all captive birds, even a couple of hens in the garden, with the exception of birds you keep in your home. You can do this on the DEFRA website (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).
For comprehensive information and advice visit Bird flu (avian influenza): latest situation in England page on gov.uk, including advice for game keepers, those that keep racing pigeons and guidance on symptoms/death in wild birds.