Foxes & The Law
Is It Legal To Shoot Foxes?
The short answer is Yes, when done correctly.
Foxes are not protected for conservation purposes in England. As the owner or occupier of the property where a problem with foxes occurs, you can decide when to control them. But you must use a professional, humane fox control service.
Foxes are not vermin; they are wild animals protected under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and you must not cause unnecessary distress or suffering to a fox - one of the reasons why foxes cannot be trapped and relocated.
Shooting foxes is a far more humane fox control method than alternatives such as snaring or blocking and destroying their earths. It’s also more effective than expensive fox deterrents that never really work. However, firearms can only ever be used in an urban environment after a thorough on-site risk assessment has been completed. Email me for professional fox shooting advice.
Read the UK government guidance here
Employing The Right Person
Firearms Knowledge And Skill
Allowing a fox control professional onto your property isn’t just about solving a problem — it’s about ensuring the job is done safely, legally, and humanely.
Firearms are powerful tools, and in the wrong hands, they create unnecessary risk. Here’s why choosing a properly trained, competent and certified firearms operator is essential:
Safety For You, Your Family, Your Staff, And Your Neighbours
Safe fox control requires precise judgment, disciplined firearms handling, and a deep understanding of ballistics and backstops. A trained marksman knows how to assess safe firing angles, avoid ricochets, and ensure no one is put at risk. Poor firearms handling can lead to accidental injury, property damage, or worse.
Compliance with UK firearms law
The UK has some of the strictest firearms regulations in the world. Anyone using a rifle for pest control must:
- Hold the correct firearms certificate (FAC)
- Use appropriate, lawful ammunition and calibre
- Operate strictly within the conditions stated on their licence
Anyone who doesn’t understand these laws could cause you legal problems if an incident occurs on your land. Using a fully certified, legally compliant operator protects you.
Humane, ethical pest control
A skilled shooter knows how to dispatch foxes instantly and humanely, avoiding unnecessary suffering. Poor marksmanship or lack of experience increases the chance of wounding, which is both unethical and potentially illegal.
Protecting your property and other animals
Professionals with real firearms experience understand how to operate safely around buildings, gardens, livestock areas, and public spaces. They’ll choose the right equipment and method to avoid damage or disruption.
Professionalism and accountability
Experienced operators — especially those with Military, Police, or wildlife management backgrounds bring:
- Discipline
- Training
- Experience
- Precision
- Risk-assessment capability
- Clear communication
- Full insurance and documentation
This ensures the work is completed to the highest standard with full accountability.
It's in our nature to do the job correctly.
In short:
Firearms are not tools for amateurs.
Letting someone without the correct skills shoot on your land puts people, pets, property, and wildlife at unnecessary risk.
Hiring a trained marksman ensures your fox problem is dealt with safely, legally, and humanely — exactly as it should be.