Smoke control areas only refer to emissions from chimneys, not bonfires.

There are no smoke control areas in Charnwood so there is no requirement for residents to only burn smokeless fuel. 

Chimney smoke

Although it is not an offence for smoke to be emitted from a domestic chimney there are two requirements for residents to be aware of:

  • It is an offence to emit dark smoke from a chimney
  • Any emissions can be investigated if there are allegations that the smoke is causing a nuisance at another resident’s property

In both cases owners of solid fuel burning appliances can minimise problems for themselves and other residents by ensuring that the appliance is correctly installed, regularly serviced and operated according to manufacturer’s instructions.  

In addition, users should ensure that the chimney is also correctly installed, lined and sound in construction with the correct pot fitted and swept at least once a year. The chosen fuel should be dry, uncontaminated by paint or preservatives and suitable for the appliance. 

Solid fuel appliances

If you are considering installing a wood burning stove or any other solid fuel appliance you must firstly contact our building control team on

  • Tel: 01509 634924

This will be to discuss obtaining building regulations consent. 

For more advice please refer to our wood burning stove advice leaflet:

Last updated: Tue 31st July, 2018 @ 09:14