Making an application under RIPA
Codes of practice
These help practitioners assess and understand whether and in what circumstances it is appropriate to use covert techniques.
The codes also provide guidance on what procedures need to be followed in each case. Under RIPA the codes must be approved and debated in both Houses of Parliament and published.
We are revising the codes of practice on covert surveillance and covert human intelligence sources. We have published draft codes as part of this consultation.
Read the current versions of the codes
These are the latest codes of practice under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.
All of these documents can also be purchased from The Stationery Office (new window).
Guidance on the procedures that must be followed before interception of communications can take place under those provisions.
Guidance on the procedures to be followed when acquisition of communications data takes place.
This code relates to authorisation of covert surveillance.
This code applies to every authorisation of the use or conduct of covert human intelligence sources.
This code of practice explains laws relating to investigating protected electronic information.
Please note: Following a RIPA-related consultation earlier this year, the Home Office has revised the codes of practice on covert surveillance and covert human intelligence sources.
The revised codes (below) come into force with effect from 6 April 2010 when they replace the existing ones:
- Covert Surveillance and Property Interference Code of Practice
- Covert Human Intelligence Sources Code of Practice
