Yes, you can still buy red diesel in the UK, but only for approved sectors such as agriculture, forestry, marine, and rail transport. Using it for other purposes is illegal and can lead to fines or prosecution.
Red diesel, also known as gas oil or tractor diesel, has long been a popular fuel in the United Kingdom for off-road machinery and agricultural vehicles. However, due to the government’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and prevent misuse of fuel, the rules around red diesel have changed drastically over the last few years. Many people still wonder: can you still buy red diesel in the UK? The answer is not as simple as yes or no. It depends entirely on who you are, what you need it for, and how you intend to use it.
This detailed guide explains whether red diesel is still available, who can legally buy it, where to get it, and what the restrictions are in 2025.
Understanding What Red Diesel Is
Red diesel is essentially the same as regular (white) diesel used in cars and vans, but its dyed red and marked with a chemical identifier to make it easy to identify. The dye helps HMRC (His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) detect illegal use in on-road vehicles.
The key reason for its popularity was the lower tax rate applied to it. Because it was primarily used for agricultural, construction, and industrial purposes, the government charged a much lower duty than for road diesel. This made it a cost-effective option for businesses operating off-road machinery.
However, with environmental targets tightening, this low-tax privilege was re-evaluated. Since April 2022, the government has restricted the use of red diesel to a much narrower range of industries.
Is Red Diesel Still Available in 2025?
Many wonder, is red diesel still available? The answer is yes, but not for everyone. You can still buy red diesel in the UK, but only for specific, legally permitted applications.
The government’s crackdown means that most commercial and private sectors that once benefited from red diesel now have to switch to white diesel or other fuels. However, certain sectors can still use it legally.
Who Can Buy Red Diesel Legally?
If you’re asking who can buy red diesel, the list is now much shorter than it used to be. The government allows only specific industries and applications to purchase and use red diesel legally. These include:
- Agriculture and horticulture: Farmers and horticultural workers can use red diesel for tractors, harvesters, and other machinery used in food production and land management.
- Forestry: Vehicles and machinery used for forestry operations are permitted to be used.
- Fisheries and marine industries: Boats and ships that operate in UK waters, particularly fishing vessels, can legally use red diesel.
- Rail transport: Trains and other rail vehicles are still allowed to use red diesel for operations.
- Heating and power generation: Certain non-commercial heating systems, such as those in remote areas or on construction sites, may still use it for electricity generation or heating fuel tanks.
If your business doesn’t fall into these categories, you cannot legally purchase or use red diesel.
Can You Still Get Red Diesel for Personal Use?
If you’re an individual wondering whether you can still get red diesel for personal use, such as heating a home or fuelling a private generator, the answer is mostly no. Residential properties are not allowed to use red diesel unless it’s for very specific heating or power generation systems in off-grid locations where alternatives aren’t viable.
For domestic vehicles such as cars, vans, or motorhomes, using red diesel is illegal. The penalties for doing so are severe, including fines, fuel confiscation, and even potential vehicle seizure.
Can You Buy Red Diesel in the UK – and Where?
If your business qualifies under HMRC’s list of approved uses, you can still legally buy red diesel. So, the answer to ‘Can you buy red diesel?’ is yes, but with conditions.
The best way to source it is through a licensed fuel distributor. These companies ensure that fuel is properly dyed, stored, and delivered in accordance with UK regulations. When purchasing, you must declare the purpose for which the fuel will be used, and the supplier may request evidence that you are authorised to use it.
If you’re unsure where to buy red diesel, you can check with authorised local fuel suppliers. Many UK fuel companies, such as 123 Oil, continue to supply red diesel to eligible industries, ensuring all deliveries comply with HMRC standards.
Why the Restrictions Exist
The UK government’s move to limit red diesel use is part of its broader environmental and taxation strategy. Since red diesel is taxed at a lower rate, it was seen as a subsidy that discouraged businesses from switching to cleaner energy options.
By narrowing the eligibility, the government hopes to encourage sectors to invest in greener technologies and reduce overall emissions. This policy aligns with the UK’s target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
What Happens If You Use Red Diesel Illegally?
Using red diesel when you’re not authorised to be a serious offence. HMRC regularly conducts roadside checks and inspections on construction sites and industrial facilities.
If you are caught using it unlawfully, several penalties can apply:
- Immediate vehicle or machinery seizure
- On-the-spot fines
- Back payment of full fuel duty plus penalties
- Possible prosecution for tax evasion
The red dye in the fuel makes detection straightforward, as even traces can be found in the fuel system long after refilling. Hence, it’s strongly advised not to risk using red diesel illegally.
Alternatives to Red Diesel
For industries that lost access to red diesel, several alternatives exist:
- White Diesel (DERV): The most direct replacement, taxed at the standard rate. It can be used in any diesel engine, but it costs more.
- HVO Fuel (Hydro treated Vegetable Oil): A cleaner, renewable diesel alternative made from plant and waste oils. It’s gaining popularity among environmentally conscious businesses.
- Biofuels and low-carbon solutions: Depending on your equipment and budget, biofuel blends can help reduce emissions without the risk of legal issues.
Switching fuels might require some investment, but it ensures compliance and long-term sustainability.
The Cost of Red Diesel
Although red diesel has historically cost much less than white diesel due to lower taxes, it’s no longer as widely available. Only qualifying users can benefit from the reduced rate.
If you buy red diesel legally, you can expect to pay significantly less per litre than standard diesel. However, for most businesses, that saving is now out of reach due to the eligibility restrictions.
Final Thoughts
So, can you still buy red diesel in the UK? The answer is yes, but with major limitations. It remains available for specific industries that need it to operate essential equipment, but the average business or individual can no longer legally use it.
If you fall into a permitted category, ensure that your purchases are made through licensed suppliers and that accurate usage records are kept. For everyone else, switching to standard diesel or renewable fuels is the safest and most responsible choice.
The UK’s shift away from red diesel highlights a broader environmental commitment, pushing industries towards more sustainable practices. While the transition may seem challenging, it opens new opportunities to innovate, cut emissions, and future-proof your operations against further fuel regulation changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, red diesel is still available, but only for specific sectors like agriculture, forestry, rail transport, and marine operations. It's not available for most commercial or domestic uses.
No. Since April 2022, construction companies have been unable to use red diesel. They must use white diesel or approved alternatives instead.
You can buy red diesel from authorised fuel distributors who are registered with HMRC. Always ensure you declare your intended use when purchasing.
Only businesses in approved sectors such as farming, fishing, rail transport, and power generation can buy and use red diesel legally.
Red diesel itself isn't illegal, but using it in unauthorised vehicles or machinery is. It's only legal for use in industries approved by HMRC.
