Is your firewood supplier legally compliant?From 1st May 2022 the law in England for smaller scale wood fuel suppliers changed. Anyone supplying less than 2 cubic meters of wood fuel is now legally obliged to be part of the ‘Ready to Burn’ certification scheme which gives an assurance of 20% moisture or less. Wales, N. Ireland and Scotland are currently reviewing their situations.
Any suppliers supplying less than 2 cubic metres must be certified and join the Ready to Burn scheme to comply with the law. The Ready to Burn certification scheme applies to:
If you are buying loads of 2 cubic metres or more, suppliers must legally issue you with a ‘Statutory Guidance Notice’. This can be a basic flyer that explains how to dry, store and check the moisture of the wood before it is used. It must, however, include the official wording: “This wood is not suitable for burning until it has been dried. You should not burn wood until it has a moisture content of 20% or less. Wet wood contains moisture that creates smoke and harmful particulates when burnt. As well as being harmful to your health and the environment, this can damage your stove and chimney and is an inefficient way to heat your home. Dry it in a sunny, well-aired space for at least two years, keeping rain off in the winter.” |
A practical guide for using open fires and wood-burning stoves
Open fires and wood-burning stoves have risen in popularity over recent years. Smoke from burning causes air pollution which harms the health of millions.
The leaflet below, produced by Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra), provides simple guidance for those using wood burning stoves or open fires to reduce environmental and health impacts as well as benefiting you directly. |
Smoke Control AreasWhat is a Smoke Control Area?
Many parts of the UK are smoke control areas where:
In England you may have to pay a penalty of up to £300 if your local council decides your chimney releases too much smoke. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you burn unauthorised fuel without an exempt appliance. Am I in a Smoke Control Area? The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has produced a useful map that you can use to gain an idea if you are within a Smoke Control Area. Please visit the smoke control area map (scroll to the bottom of the link page and hit "ACCEPT"). Please note, this data has been provided to Defra by local authorities and is indicative only. You should always contact your local council to confirm if you live in a Smoke Control Area. |
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1901291307_ready_to_burn_web.pdf | |
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