Trail hunting, legislation and landowner risk
With trail hunting in the spotlight, CLA National Access Adviser Claire Wright explains how the latest practical guidance can help you better understand landowner liability
The UK Government has committed in its manifesto to banning trail hunting and plans to launch a public consultation in 2026. This pledge was reinforced in Defra’s Animal Welfare Strategy, published on 22 December 2025.
The CLA does not believe there is credible evidence that trail hunting, when conducted lawfully, causes harm to wildlife or animal welfare. Where allegations of illegal activity arise, the appropriate response is proper enforcement of the law, not the prohibition of a lawful activity on which many rural livelihoods depend and that many people enjoy.
Any proposed legislative change should be evidence-led and based on a proportionate assessment of risk, rather than assumption or ideology. With limited parliamentary time available, the CLA is concerned that measures of this kind risk becoming symbolic rather than effective, and that the government could better direct its efforts towards supporting rural businesses and addressing serious criminality.
The Hunting Act 2004
With trail hunting activity back under public scrutiny, the CLA has updated its guidance note on the Hunting Act 2004 (the Act). This comprehensive resource covers everything land managers need to know before granting consent for a pack of hounds to enter land in England and Wales.
There have been numerous convictions under the Hunting Act, proving that the existing law is working. Regulated trail hunts should not all be tarred with the same brush.
The legalities of hunting
Our guidance explains what is legal, exempt and illegal under the act. It also addresses a key concern among members; potential liability when consent is given for hunting activity. In 2023, two landowners were charged under Section 3 of the act – ‘knowingly permitting land to be used for illegal hunting.’ Although the case was dismissed, we have strengthened advice around landowner consent to help avoid similar situations.
Beyond the legal framework, our guidance explores practical considerations when allowing a pack of hounds onto your land. Topics include your duty of care to participants, managing public rights of way, dealing with hunt saboteurs, protecting scheduled monuments, and responding to trespass incidents when consent was not granted.
Members can download the guidance note below and explore the advice section of the CLA website for more helpful tips to help you manage your rural business.
If you have any further questions on this subject, please contact the CLA Legal Team for further assistance.
