UK households using wood burners in November face £300 fine through post

UK households trying to stay cosy as we head through autumn and towards Christmas face huge fines for using log burners. In a bid to curb air pollution, Labour Party government regulations now limit the amount of smoke that can be emitted from wood-burning stoves in smoke control areas.

The government website discloses that 'many' UK homes fall within these zones and under these rules, affected homes cannot: Violating these rules could result in fines ranging from £175 to £300. Wood-burning stoves are considered exempt appliances in these areas.

But, worryingly, that's only if they "demonstrate low smoke emissions." Fireplace experts from A World of Fires in Newcastle clarified that your wood burner must emit no more than three grams of smoke per hour to comply. "Defra argues that log burners and coal fires are among the largest sources of fine particulate matter (PM.25) in the air," they said.

READ MORE Mechanic issues warning to drivers who have 15,000 miles clocked up on car

"These tiny particles can penetrate the lungs and cause various health issues, including lung cancer, heart damage, strokes, and asthma. Domestic fires and stoves contribute to 38 per cent of PM.25 in the atmosphere, a figure disputed by the stove industry.

"In conclusion, while the UK government is taking steps to reduce air pollution and promote cleaner heating methods, they are not banning wood-burning stoves. However, it's essential for homeowners to be aware of the new regulations and ensure their stoves comply with the updated emission limits."

You can use outdoor barbecues, chimineas, fireplaces or pizza ovens in smoke control areas. If your appliance uses a chimney on the roof of a building (for example, a summerhouse), you can only burn authorised fuel unless it’s an exempt appliance.

You’re allowed garden bonfires in smoke control areas but you need to follow the rules on bonfires, the government has also gone on to warn.