Environment

Bonfires

Report a nuisance bonfire to the Council

Go to the bonfires action section for information on how to report a bonfire to the Council.

Bonfires and the law

There are no bylaws about garden bonfires, so anyone can light one at any time and as often as they like. However, if it causes a statutory nuisance, the Council can do something about it and so can you.

If the problem goes to court as a statutory nuisance, you will need to provide evidence of dates, times and durations of the offending bonfire to prove the case.

There are laws relating to bonfires on industrial or commercial premises (including building sites). If these bonfires emit dark smoke then an immediate offence is committed and the Council can take action, including prosecution.

Bonfires can be a major nuisance to people for the following reasons:

they produce smoke and ash
they smell
they affect air quality
they may cause problems for people with asthma or chest conditions
they can stop people spending time in their gardens, opening windows or hanging out washing
they can be a fire hazard
they can reduce visibility on roads and lead to accidents

What to do if you are planning a bonfire

If you are planning a bonfire it is important that you follow the following advice to protect yourself and others.against any of the above.

burn dry material only
do not burn household rubbish, such as plastic, foam, paint or rubber
do not use old engine oil, meths or petrol to light the fire
do not light bonfires on damp, still days, or when the wind is likely to blow smoke over roads or neighbours' gardens
do not have a bonfire when people nearby wish to spend time in their gardens
do not have a bonfire when air quality in the area is less than "Very Good"
(Phone 0800 556677 to check local air quality readings)
do not leave bonfires unattended or smouldering

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