Skip to main content
Statutory guidance

Picketing: code of practice

Guidance on picketing for employers, workers or members of the public who may be affected by a picket or any associated activities.

Updates to this page

From:
Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade and Department for Business and Trade
Published:
31 March 1992
Last updated:
5 March 2026
Show all updates

  1. The code has been updated to reflect the legal provisions made by the Employment Rights Act 2025.

  2. Updated the date this code is likely to remain effective until.

  3. Added explanation that this code of practice is in the process of being revised, but this version remains effective until 11.59pm on 17 February 2026.

  4. The previous Code of Practice was removed so the new, revised Code becomes definitive and the only one available.

  5. New revised code added to the page, with note in details explaining that this takes effect on 11 March.

  6. Final version of Code of Practice published

  7. Explanatory memorandum added

  8. Draft code of practice added

  9. First published.

Applies to England, Scotland and Wales

Documents

Code of practice on picketing (PDF version)

PDF, 305 KB, 21 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email digital@businessandtrade.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Code of practice on picketing (web version)

HTML

Details

This code of practice provides practical guidance on picketing in trade disputes for those contemplating, organising or taking part in a picket or activities associated with picketing.

The code has been updated to reflect the legal provisions made by the Employment Rights Act 2025. It supersedes the code of practice on picketing issued in 2024.

Sign up for emails or print this page

Related content