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Garden bonfires

Burning garden waste

Garden bonfires and garden incinerators are not illegal, even in a smoke control area.

There are no laws or rules about the time or day of the week they may be lit. However, if a bonfire causes a nuisance to neighbours then legal action can be taken.

You must make sure only dry garden waste is burnt.

No household waste should be burned - it is an offence under s33(1)(c) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If evidence of household waste being burned is found then legal action may be taken.

To report illegal burning or the burning of garden waste that is causing a nuisance contact Environmental Health on 01325 405111 or email [email protected].

Please consider your neighbours. If you do decide to burn garden waste make sure you only burn dry garden waste. Do not have a bonfire when:

  • People are sitting in their gardens
  • People are cleaning or decorating
  • Washing is drying on the line
  • Weather is hot and people have their windows open

Consider using the council's garden waste collection service between April and November instead. 

For more information see: 

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