Key facts
- Under the Theft Act 1968, picking wild mushrooms is not theft unless you do it for sale or another commercial purpose.
- Nature reserves, SSSIs and many parks and forests have their own byelaws, and some restrict or ban picking.
- When in doubt, ask the landowner or site manager.
Where it applies
| Place | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| England, most land | Personal-use picking of wild fungi is not theft | Theft Act 1968, s.4 |
| SSSIs and reserves | May be restricted; check the site | Natural England and site byelaws |
Protected sites and byelaws
Some places, including parts of the New Forest and Epping Forest, have their own rules about picking fungi. Always read the notices and the site's website before you go.
For the New Forest in detail see our region guide.
Sources
- Theft Act 1968, section 4(3) (legislation.gov.uk)
- Natural England — guidance for SSSIs (gov.uk)