The majority of the borough is a 'smoke control area'. This means that it is an offence to emit smoke from a chimney. DEFRA approved appliances must only use the type of fuels specified by the manufacturer and in accordance with their own instructions.
More information on smoke control areas, authorised fuels, and approved appliances can be found on the GOV.UK website: Smoke control areas: the rules.
Burning wood, coal and other solid fuels at home emits dangerous pollution known as fine particulate matter (often referred to as PM2.5), which can be damaging to health. Exposure to particulate air pollution can also trigger the symptoms of existing health conditions.
Please think twice before burning solid fuels, to find out more visit the London Wood Burning Project website.
Is my property in the smoke control area?
When the smoke control areas were created, they covered the entire borough with the exception of parts of what are now Darwin and Chelsfield and Pratts Bottom wards. The list of street names exempt from the smoke control area (PDF - 31.2 KB) should be read alongside the borough map showing the smoke control area (PDF - 1.43 MB) as more recent developments may not be listed.
Contact us if you believe that someone is breaking the law or you need further advice or information.