If you are thinking about installing a fireplace in your home or have recently moved into an abode with a fireplace, you might be wondering whether there are any regulations about using fireplaces and emitting fumes. It depends on the area that you live in, with some localities coming under SCAs (smoke control areas). This can impact whether you have a fireplace and the type of fireplace you can have. Read on for more information to help you avoid spending on a big purchase like a fireplace that you will not ultimately be able to use.
What Is a Smoke Control Area (SCA)?
A smoke control area is an area where you are not permitted to produce fumes from your chimney or any other openings. You are also banned from purchasing or selling unregulated fuel (in most cases) that could be used to create this smoke. This might be unusual to you if you have never lived in a smoke control area before, but this is part of the government’s attempts to limit pollution and create clean air throughout the UK.
Where Are Smoke Control Areas?
There are many smoke control areas throughout Wales and the UK. For instance, there are many smoke control areas around Central and Greater London, such as Enfield and Barnet. However, smoke control areas are not limited to the capital, and you can also find them in places such as Doncaster, Sunderland, and Bristol. Many of these smoke control areas are located near major cities where pollution is already rife. There are not many smoke control areas in Wales, however, apart from in and around Wrexham. This does not mean you should not be wary of air pollution, though, especially since more people are now using wood-burning fires due to the increase in heating bills and the cost of living.
How Can You Find Out If You Live in a Smoke Control Area?
If you are uncertain whether you live in a smoke control area, there are many online maps that will allow you to search for your location and will give you all the specific details related to your postcode. However, the only way to know for certain, especially since smoke control areas can change, is to speak to your local council, who will put you through to the environmental department. You will also get the chance to ask them any questions about the regulations and any concerns you may have.
What Happens If You Do Not Stay Compliant?
If you burn fuel and create smoke in a smokeless zone, you could be fined a substantial amount of money, up to £300. This amount increases if you commit more than one offence. This goes up to £1,000 if you purchase a fuel that is not approved by Defra.
What Can You Do?
If you are worried about the rules when it comes to smoke control areas, it might help you to relax by knowing exactly what you can do. For instance, you are able to buy smokeless fuels such as anthracite and gas. There is also no need to stop using your prized pizza oven or outdoor grill, and you can still get rid of your rubbish by having a garden bonfire without any issues.
You do not even have to wave goodbye to having a fireplace. Instead, there are many other fireplace options that you can enjoy without burning unauthorised fuel through your chimney. For instance, you can enjoy a gas or electric fire without any issues, as these do not produce pollution. In most cases, you will only be banned from using wood-burning fireplaces or fireplaces that thrive on regulated fuels. This means you can still enjoy the aesthetic cosiness of a fire and its flickering warmth even if you live in a major city. If you are looking for the right fireplace for your home, you should consider looking at the options offered by Bespoke Fireplace Designs. Their array of wonderful finishes will allow you to forget your heartbreak at not being allowed a wood-burning fire, and their experts will help you find the most eco-friendly options.
Then, rather than dismissing the idea of having a fireplace altogether, you should start getting your designs in place. A fireplace is not out of bounds, even if you live in a smoke control zone, and having a fireplace can greatly boost your quality of life and the aesthetics of your home. All you need to do is understand and stay informed about the smoke control areas near you.
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