Agriculture & Farming UK-wide

Biocides and Pesticides Authorisation

Get HSE CRD authorisation for biocidal and pesticidal products.

Guide summary

You must get authorisation from HSE's Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) before selling biocides or pesticides in Great Britain. Apply for active substance approval first (takes 12 to 36 months), then product authorisation (takes 6 to 12 months). Failing to do so can lead to an unlimited fine and up to 3 months in prison.

  • Apply for active substance approval before product authorisation
  • Active substance approval takes 12 to 36 months
  • Product authorisation takes 6 to 12 months for a full dossier
  • Low-risk products may qualify for simplified authorisation (60 days)
  • Active substance approval costs £50,000 to £500,000+
  • Biocide product authorisation costs £5,000 to £30,000
  • Pesticide product authorisation costs £2,000 to £15,000
  • Authorisation lasts 10 years
  • Get a parallel trade permit to import EU-authorised products
  • Unauthorised supply risks unlimited fine and up to 3 months in prison
On this page

Related guides in COSHH

Biocidal and pesticidal products cannot be placed on the GB market without authorisation from HSE's Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD). This is a two-stage process requiring active substance approval before product authorisation.

Product types requiring authorisation

  • Biocides: Disinfectants, preservatives, pest control products, antifouling
  • Pesticides: Plant protection products for agriculture and horticulture

Post-Brexit transition

Products authorised under EU regulations before Brexit retained their authorisation. New products or renewals now require GB-specific authorisation from HSE CRD. Parallel trade permits are needed for importing EU-authorised products.