Can I keep a machete in my house in the UK?

Can You Keep a Machete in Your House in the UK?

As of 24 September 2025, the rules around owning certain bladed weapons in the UK are changing. If you’ve got a machete stored at home, it’s time to think twice. The government has announced that machetes — along with so-called ‘zombie-style’ knives — will no longer be legal to possess in private homes across the UK from that date.

This move is part of a broader effort to crack down on knife crime and improve public safety. Authorities have long expressed concern over the increasing availability and use of large, intimidating blades, even when kept for what some claim are “decorative” or “farming” purposes. The new legislation closes a loophole that previously allowed ownership as long as the blade wasn’t carried in public.

What does this mean for you? If you currently own a machete, you can no longer keep it at home after the ban takes effect — even if it’s locked away or never used. That said, there’s a grace period of sorts: police forces across the country are running a national hand-in campaign, allowing people to surrender prohibited blades anonymously and receive cash in return. It’s a no-questions-asked opportunity to get rid of the item safely and legally.

While some may argue that machetes have practical uses — like gardening or outdoor work — the law makes no exception for household possession after the deadline. Ignoring the ban could result in serious legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment.

If you're unsure whether your blade falls under the ban, it’s best to check with your local police force or hand it in to avoid risk. The message is clear: what once might have seemed like a harmless tool is now firmly in the category of prohibited weapons. Better safe — and lawful — than sorry.