Log burner households must follow the rules on approved fuels (Image: Getty)
All households with log burners or wood burners are being told they must buy their fuels from an ‘approved list’ or face possible fines and prosecution.
Log burners, wood burners and other kinds of traditional solid fuel fireplaces and heating remain immensely popular across the UK, especially in the wake of the trend of rising gas and electricity prices over the past decade.
This is despite the risks and links to possible conditions flagged by various charities.
But there is another thing which households using log burners need to be aware of – the strict rules about using only ‘approved fuels’ allowed by the government.
The Energy Saving Trust, in its advice to households, explains that there are certain regulations which apply to households in Smoke Control Areas, which is most urban areas in the UK.
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It says: “The regulations apply if you live in a smoke control area.
“New wood burners can’t emit more than three grams of smoke per hour.
“If your log burner is on the list of Defra-exempt appliances that produce fewer smoke emissions, you can apply for an exemption.
“You must use an approved fuel, which varies depending on where in the UK you live. See the full list of approved fuels on the Defra website.
“Look for the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo on fuel packaging. This means the fuel has less than 20% moisture and complies with Defra’s regulations.
“All new log burners must adhere to Ecodesign rules to reduce smoke and pollutant emissions. Check with the manufacturer if a wood burner adheres to Ecodesign rules.”
The list of approved fuels varies in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so you will need to check the fuels allowed where you live in the UK.
Are you in a Smoke Control Area?
“England: Most urban areas are in a smoke control area. Defra has a map where you can check if you live in a smoke control area.
“Scotland: Check the interactive map from the Spatial Hub website.
“Wales: Check the map on DataMapWales.
“Northern Ireland: Check the map on the Northern Ireland Air website.”
The Energy Saving Trust adds that fines can run from £175 all the way to £5,000 depending on the severity of the offence and if it goes to court.
It adds: “Local authorities in England have the power to issue fines starting from £175 for people breaking these rules. But the fines can go as high as £300.
You could also get a fine of up to £1,000 for using unauthorised fuel in an appliance that’s not on the Defra-exempt list.
If the situation goes to court, fines could be as high as £5,000 for repeat offenders.”