FAQs

If I am in a Smoke Control Area can I have a bonfire?

Yes you can because Smoke Control Area Legislation does not cover bonfires, but you must not cause a smoke nuisance. However, it is best to avoid having a bonfire if possible because it adds to the air pollution. The alternatives are to compost garden waste or shred woody waste or take it to the amenity tip. Household waste should never be burned and should be put out for the normal weekly collection by the council. It is not an offence to have a bonfire, but it is an offence to cause a smoke nuisance to you neighbours. So there are some common sense precautions to follow to reduce the likelihood of causing a problem:

• Only burn dry material
• Never burn household rubbish, rubber tyres or anything containing, plastic, foam or paint
• Never use engine oil or petrol to start a fire
• Never burn on cold, damp days as the smoke hangs around on the air
• Never burn on a windy day, as the smoke will be blown into neighbours gardens
• Avoid burning on weekends or during the day when people are trying to enjoy their gardens or have washing hanging out

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