Trading Standards

Avian Flu 

Mandatory housing measures for poultry and captive birds, which were introduced across various counties to prevent the spread of bird flu, will be lifted from Thursday 15 May 2025.

The latest risk assessment supported by the best scientific evidence shows that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry has reduced. This means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can now be kept outside.

The lifting of housing measures applies to all areas unless keepers are in a Protection Zone or Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone - these are areas where there has been a recent outbreak.

Scrupulous biosecurity is the best deterrent to stopping the spread of avian influenza. Birdkeepers are legally required to adhere to the highest biosecurity standards with an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) mandating strict biosecurity remaining in place in England, Scotland and Wales. This includes measures such as disinfecting footwear, clothing and vehicles and equipment before and after entering premises.

Bird gatherings, such as fairs and markets, remain banned.

Sale of Disposable Vapes To Be Banned 

The sale of disposable vapes will be banned in England from the 1 June 2025.

The Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (England) Regulations 2024 SI 2024 No. 1216 have now been published. 

From 1 June 2025, it will be illegal for businesses to sell, offer to sell or have in their possession for sale all single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes. This applies to:

• sales online and in shops
• all vapes whether or not they contain nicotine 

To access our Enforcement on the new legislation go to Guidance (pdf 317kb) 

If a vape is reusable, you’ll still be able sell it. For the national guidance go to: Gov.uk