Find out if your property is in a smoke control area

What fuel can I legally burn?

In a smoke control area, you can only burn any of the following smokeless fuels. Unless you're using an exempt appliance.

✔ semi-anthracite

✔ gas

✔ low volatile steam coal

✔ anthracite

Further information and guidance (opens new window)

How can I reduce solid fuel emissions?

To reduce the amount of pollution from burning solid fuel, make sure you maintain the appliance and that the fuel is clean and dry. Do not burn:

✗ wet fuels, for example, wet coke or unseasoned wood - the moisture will decrease the combustion temperature. This will increase emissions of pollutants including dioxins, furans, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particles and oxides of nitrogen and offensive odour

✗ contaminated fuel, for example, painted or preserved wood - this will also lead to higher pollutant emissions and make the emission odorous

Maintaining your appliances

The maintenance of solid fuel appliances such as a boiler, cooker, fireplace, stove, heater, is very important so it is safe and efficient. The following general guidelines are recommended but it is important to follow any instruction from your appliance manufacturer.

• sweep chimneys from top to bottom at least once a year, preferably carried out by a qualified chimney sweep, twice a year if burning coal or wood
• make sure you have ventilation to keep the fire burning properly and efficiently
• flue-ways at the back of any boiler should be cleaned at least once a month
• throat plates at the top of any room heater should be removed and cleaned regularly
• check and empty the ashcan regularly and at least once a day when the appliance is in use
• immediate action is necessary if you smell or suspect fumes are escaping into the living accommodation