Environment
Smoke control areas
Smoke control areas relate to the control of smoke from domestic chimneys and burning fuel in fireplaces.
Smoke control areas do not relate to bonfires.
What does it mean if my property is in a Smoke Control Area?
Only approved fireplaces burning authorised fuels declared under the Clean Air Act may be used in buildings or parts of buildings separately occupied
This means that if you could reasonably install a gas fire i.e. if you have mains gas, you cannot have an open fire in your property.
If you do not have mains gas, you can have an open fire, but it must be an approved fireplace and only burn authorised fuels that are listed in Regulations made under the Clean Air Act 1993.
More information on approved fireplaces and fuel can be found on GOV.UK
Check if you live within a smoke control area
Open fires and wood-burning stoves
Open fires and wood-burning stoves have risen in popularity over recent years. This means we now see more smoke from chimneys which has a negative effect on air quality. This can cause breathing problems such as asthma attacks and contribute to other health conditions.
This leaflet provides simple steps for those that use wood burning stoves or open fires to reduce environmental and health impacts.
It will also benefit you directly by:
- Maximising efficiency, meaning you burn less fuel
- Reducing maintenance costs
- Keeping chimneys in a better condition
Read the leaflet – Open fires and wood-burning stoves – a practical guide (pdf 484KB)