Households warned they face fine if they break new log burner rules this winter

25 October 2023 , 15:41

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New log burning rules are set to be brought in (stock image) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

New rules in England could mean log burner users will be slapped with fines of up to £300 or even a criminal record.

The new measures apply to homes in "smoke control areas", which cover most of England's towns and cities. If you're caught breaking these rules, you could be hit with an on-the-spot fine.

Last year, the Government banned the sale of house coal and wet wood in England to cut down on emissions and promote greener alternatives. It's estimated around 1.5 million Brits own a log burner.

Under a 25-year plan, the Government has decided to tighten the rules rather than completely ban burning fuels, as some households rely on them for heating and cooking. Experts are urging households to be careful when using their log burners at home, warning they could pay a hefty price to stay warm, LancsLive reported.

John Cutts, an expert at MeandMyGlass.co.uk, warned: "With the cold weather fast approaching, it's likely many of us will want to get warm and cosy by lighting up log burners at home, but many log burner owners are unaware of the recent implications of clean air regulations. If they're not followed correctly, thousands of Brits could face large fines and even a criminal conviction. Not only do people have to be aware of the type of log burner they're using, but also the material being burned on it. Using the wrong log burner and materials will result in a hefty penalty."

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He advised the regulations encourage owners to switch to more eco-friendly alternatives and strongly advise all log burner owners to be cautious of the materials they're using on the stove.

He warned: "That's why it's important to make sure that the materials being used adhere to the guidelines and that any stoves with glass doors are still fit to function without any cracks that could lead to fumes escaping from the burner."

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Melissa Major