Bonfires and Smoke Pollution
Please use the button below to report a nuisance:
There is no law against having a bonfire, but there is legislation if it causes a nuisance.
What does the law say about bonfires?
The law says you can light a bonfire at any time, as long as it doesn't cause a nuisance - there are no specific bylaws against bonfires in this area.
However, having a bonfire every day, or regularly, or a large bonfire may cause a nuisance.
It is an offence for smoke from a bonfire to drift onto a public highway as stated in the Highways Act. If this happens, contact the police.
If a bonfire emits dark smoke - as defined by the Clean Air Act 1993 - then an immediate offence is committed, and the Council can take action, including prosecution if necessary.
Bonfires and Pollution
Burning garden waste creates smoke containing air pollutants and particles. Burning man-made materials can be smelly and could release poisonous chemicals into the air.
Composting garden and kitchen waste is an alternative to bonfires.
What can I do about smoke or bonfire nuisance?
If smoke coming from another property is affecting your normal and reasonable use of your property, then it might be a 'Statutory Nuisance.'
Sometimes people are not aware they are causing a problem; try speaking to them first.
If you don't feel comfortable doing this, or if this is not successful, contact us and we may be able to help.
More Information
Please read the DEFRA Guide to Open Fires and Woodburning Stoves.