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Understanding the Rules for UK Smoke Control Areas

There has been much coverage in the local press recently around smoke control areas and the penalties for the public if they break the rules. Some of these articles give the impression that there are new rules for the use of solid fuel at home and that the fines for non-compliance have increased when neither is the case.

What is important is that you use compliant solid fuel at home and that you understand the rules, so read on to learn more about how you can ensure that you comply while still enjoying the cosy warmth of a real fire at home.

What is a Smoke Control Area?

A smoke control area is a designated zone where strict regulations are in place to reduce air pollution from smoke. These areas are crucial for maintaining air quality and protecting public health. Smoke control areas cover many urban areas of the UK, including waterways and canals, and their boundaries are controlled by the local authority.

What Types of Appliances and Fuels are Allowed?

Within a smoke control area there are restrictions on the types of fuel you can burn and the appliance you use to minimise smoke emissions.

Only certain authorised solid fuels are permitted to be used within a smoke control area. These include:

• Anthracite
•  Semi-anthracite
• Low volatile steam coal ¹

If you wish to use a fuel that is not on the authorised list, such as wood, you must use an appliance that has been exempted by Defra (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). These appliances are designed to burn fuel more efficiently and produce less smoke and include stoves, some boilers and cookers. A full list of Defra exempt appliances can be found here.

There are appliance certification schemes designed to make it easy for consumers to choose a stove that is Defra exempt. These include the clearSkies scheme – all appliances with a Level 3 and above clearSkies mark have been independently verified as being Defra exempt.

When using wood fuel in a smoke control area, in addition to the legal requirement to use a Defra exempt appliance, the SIA also recommends using properly dried wood fuel which is at or below 20% moisture content. If you buy your wood fuel, look for the Ready to Burn logo, and if you season your own wood fuel consider investing in a moisture meter to check it is ready for use.

How to Tell if You Live in a Smoke Control Area?

The most reliable method to determine whether you live in a smoke control area is through your local council. The environmental services department can confirm if your property is within a smoke control area.

There are also interactive maps² that you can use. These are provided by the UK government and are updated with data from local authorities. You can find these here.

Smoke control areas may sometimes by marked by official notices or signs in the community. Keep an eye out for these indicators.

What if my Local Authority Changes the Smoke Control Area Boundary?

Several local authorities have recently expanded their smoke control area boundaries which means that some homes that previously did not have to comply with the rules, now do.

If this affects you and you have an appliance that is NOT Defra exempt you can still continue to use it providing you only use authorised fuel.

A change in smoke control area boundaries in your locality may well be an excellent opportunity to upgrade your appliance – switching from an open fire to a modern stove can reduce emissions by up to 90%. Speak to your local retailer to find out more.

What are the Penalties for Breaking the Rules?

Non-compliance with smoke control area regulations can result in significant fines. If your chimney emits smoke in a smoke control area, you could face a penalty of up to £300 and the purchase or use of unauthorised fuel in a non-exempt appliance can lead to fines up to £1,000.¹

Persistent violations may attract higher penalties and further legal action.

A Word About Outdoor Burning

You can use outdoor barbecues, chimineas, fireplaces, or pizza ovens in smoke control areas. However, if these appliances have a chimney that connects to the roof of a building e.g. the appliance is in summer house or other garden structure, you must use authorised fuel unless the appliance is exempt¹.

There are specific rules in relation to garden bonfires which can be found here.

Adhering to the rules of smoke control areas is essential for reducing air pollution and protecting public health. By using authorised fuels and exempt appliances, you can ensure compliance and avoid hefty fines. Always check with your local council or use online resources to confirm if you live in a smoke control area and stay informed about the regulations.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone. If you have any doubts or need further information, your local council is a valuable resource for assistance and clarification.

References:

¹ Smoke control areas: the rules – GOV.UK

² Smoke Control Area Interactive Map – GOV.UK