Glue traps
A glue trap is any trap that uses glue, adhesive material or similar viscid substances as the mode of capture to trap an animal or insect.
Sale and use of glue traps for animals is prohibited
The sale and use of glue traps for trapping animals (as defined in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986) is prohibited in Victoria. This prohibition includes use by commercial pest controllers for rodent management under any circumstances.
Sale and use of glue traps for insects is permitted with conditions
In Victoria, insect glue traps may only be sold or used if they are not capable of trapping an animal.
Glue traps sold or used for insect capture must have a cage, barrier, cover or other design features which will prevent an animal from coming into contact with the adhesive surface.
Penalties for illegal sale or use of glue traps
Under Sections 15 and 15AB of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986:
- a person must not sell a trap of a kind that is not prescribed by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019
- a person must not use a trap of a kind that is not prescribed by the Regulations and use must also be in accordance with the Regulations.
Regulation 62 in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019 prohibits the sale and use of glue traps in Victoria for animals and restricts what type of insect glue traps can be sold or used to ensure they are unable to capture animals.
The maximum penalties are:
- 240 penalty units or imprisonment for two years, in the case of a natural person
- 1200 penalty units, in the case of a body corporate
In the 2023-24 financial year, the value of one penalty unit is $192.31.
Further information
Illegal sale or use of glue traps should be reported to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Victoria Inspectorate either online or by phoning 9224 2222.
For further information contact the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.