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 the AIPZ in England from 6th November 2025 there are mandatory housing measures which mean you may also have to house your birds.
If you have more than 50 birds you must house them. This applies to all types of birds.
If you keep less than 50 birds and they are for your own use only (for example you do not sell or give away their eggs or meat), you do not have to house them.
If you keep less than 50 birds but you do sell or give away their eggs, poultry products or live birds, you must house them. These birds are known as ‘poultry’.
You can read more information on the requirements for certain types of bird in the declaration for the AIPZ in England.