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.
There are some areas in the AIPZ in England where you already have to house your birds. From 00:01 on Thursday 6 November 2025, mandatory housing measures will be 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
Poultry are birds that are kept to give away or sell:
- eggs
- poultry products
- 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.
Check what zone you’re in on the bird flu disease zone map and find out how to house your birds safely.
In the declaration for the AIPZ in England you can read further information on the requirements for certain types of bird.
Contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) should you require any further information.

