Can I burn wood in my garden UK?

According to the UK government's own website, there are no specific rules against bonfires. Instead, the law covers peripheral regulations relating to nuisance and environmental issues. There are, however, smoke-control areas or zones designated throughout the UK.

What time can you burn wood in your garden UK?

There are no set times or days for when you are permitted to have a bonfire – you can technically do so whenever you like. However, it's recommended that you choose a time in the early morning or early evening when your neighbours are less likely to be affected.

Is it OK to burn wood in garden?

Generally yes. However there are restrictions. You must not cause a nuisance to your neighbours and even then you should restrict the waste you burn to dry (not green) garden waste, clean timber, cardboard or paper. Burning other materials on an open fire may prove toxic, especially plastics, rubber, paint and oils.

Is it illegal to burn things in your garden UK?

There are no laws preventing you from having a bonfire, as long as it does not cause a statutory nuisance to other people. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 a bonfire could be causing a statutory nuisance if it occurs regularly and prevents someone enjoying their garden or opening windows.

How do I report a Neighbour burning rubbish UK?

Call 0800 555 111 or report it online at

How to Use a Garden Incinerator

Can I burn rubbish during lockdown?

"I know we all want to get odd jobs done and clean up while we have more time at home but please do not burn unnecessary fires such as household rubbish or garden waste.

Is it legal to use a garden incinerator?

When used correctly and for permitted items, garden incinerators may be used to burn waste items, as there are no laws that provide a blanket ban on burning rubbish or lighting a bonfire in your garden. However, you may wish to get rid of your garden waste by composting it instead.

Can I burn garden waste in my garden UK?

Burning domestic waste is strictly prohibited, as it will cause pollution or harm people's health. Instead, you can dispose of household or garden waste by composting or recycling it.

What are the rules for garden fires?

It's not illegal to light bonfires, and there are no official restrictions on when or how often they can be burned. The main concerns with bonfires in general however is safety, environmental damage – mainly from excessive smoke – any nuisance caused to neighbours or the public, and any danger to wildlife.

How do I complain about a Neighbours bonfire?

If you are bothered by a bonfire

They must investigate your complaint and can issue a nuisance abatement notice. You can also take private action in the magistrates' court. If the fire is only occasional, it is unlikely to be considered a nuisance in law.

Can I burn old fence panels?

There's one thing you shouldn't do, and that's burn them. Fence panels have generally been treated to help them last longer, so if you burn them, chances are you'll be sending lots of noxious chemicals into the air – a great way of making yourself very unpopular with the neighbours.

Can you burn grass cuttings UK?

Grass is not suitable for burning due to its high-water content. You will need to dry it out if you want to burn it – you can do this by spreading it out thinly to dry in the sun. Instead, you can use grass clippings around veggies and plants to deter slugs and snails.

Can you burn tree cuttings?

Burning greenwood

It is not recommended that you burn greenwood, but if you really have to, try to dry it out as much as possible first. When it comes to getting rid of moisture, every little helps.

Are fire pits legal UK?

Yes, in most instances burning wood outdoors is legal in the UK. If you are planning on burning wood in a fire pit, chimenea, or outdoor fireplace in your garden there are almost no restrictions in place.

Can I burn leaves in my garden?

Dry garden waste is also safe to burn—for example, dry leaves and old plant cuttings. Other dry waste that doesn't have any chemical or similar substances in them.

Can you burn a mattress in your garden UK?

Many people put old furniture, mattresses, or clothing on bonfires, but it's illegal to burn treated wood, tyres, plastic, rubber, and oil. These materials can give off fumes that damage the environment and health. Anyone caught illegally disposing of waste on a bonfire faces a fine of up to £50,000.

Can you be fined for having a bonfire?

The council can issue legal notices to people having nuisance bonfires. Offenders can be prosecuted and fined up to £5,000 for residential properties and £20,000 for businesses.

Do garden incinerators smoke?

Otherwise, you may find the incinerator burns faster than you can refill it. Be aware that wet material can produce much more smoke than dry material. You may want to consider your neighbours, especially if the wind will blow the smoke in the direction of their houses. Finally, a word on safety.

Can you be fined for put garden waste in normal bin?

If you are found placing general waste outside of the container, or if anyone other than those it is intended for is found using it, you could be fined up to £400.

Can you light fires on the beach?

Some beaches have pre-built fire pits, if your not that lucky then don't worry! Make sure you are far away from any dunes and combustible material. Always check your tide line and make sure you are above the high tide mark. Please Note: Not all beaches allow wild fires so remember to always check before.

Can you burn decking wood UK?

Never burn CCA treated timber as firewood in fireplaces, barbecues, wood stoves or any wood fire. Arsenic in the body accumulates in cells, which over time may lead to skin, bladder, kidney, liver, lung, and prostate cancers.