Do I Live in a Smoke Control Area? How to Check

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Do I Live in a Smoke Control Area?

If you use a log burner, open fire, or any solid fuel appliance, you may be wondering: do I live in a smoke control area? It’s a good question—because if you do, there are specific rules about what you can burn and what type of stove you’re allowed to use.

Smoke control areas are set up by local authorities across the UK to reduce air pollution, especially in towns and cities. If you live in one, you must follow certain restrictions when using fireplaces, stoves, or chimineas.

Here’s how to find out whether your property is in a smoke control area—and what that means in practice.

What Is a Smoke Control Area?

A smoke control area (SCA) is a designated zone where emitting visible smoke from a chimney is against the law, unless you’re using:

  • An approved DEFRA-exempt appliance

  • Authorised fuels that produce little to no smoke

These areas are created under the Clean Air Act, and breaching the rules can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

How to Check If You Live in a Smoke Control Area

The quickest way to check is to contact your local council or visit their website. Many councils have postcode checkers or maps where you can see if your address falls within a smoke control zone.

You can also:

  • Visit the official DEFRA website (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs)

  • Use the GOV.UK smoke control area guidance

  • Call your local Environmental Health team for confirmation

Smoke control areas are common in urban locations, especially in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, and many other large towns and cities.

What Can You Burn in a Smoke Control Area?

If you live in a smoke control area, you must only burn authorised fuels, such as:

  • “Smokeless” coal alternatives (e.g. Homefire, Phurnacite)

  • Dried wood with less than 20% moisture (if using an exempt appliance)

  • Manufactured solid fuels that are DEFRA-approved

Burning wet wood, standard house coal, or rubbish is not allowed. It produces excess smoke and can result in penalties if spotted by a council officer.

Can You Use a Wood Burner in a Smoke Control Area?

Yes—but only if it’s an approved DEFRA-exempt stove and you're burning the correct fuel. These stoves are specially designed to burn cleanly, producing minimal smoke. If you use a non-compliant stove or the wrong fuel, even a small amount of visible smoke could lead to a fine.

Always check the manufacturer’s specification and whether the stove is DEFRA-approved before installation or use.

What If You Don’t Live in a Smoke Control Area?

If your property isn’t in a smoke control area, you can use traditional stoves and a wider range of fuels—but you’re still encouraged to:

  • Burn dry, seasoned wood

  • Avoid household waste or treated timber

  • Keep your stove maintained and have your chimney swept regularly

  • Be considerate of neighbours and air quality

The government is tightening air pollution standards, so even outside smoke control areas, best practices are recommended.

Final Word

If you live in a built-up area, there's a good chance you're in a smoke control area—and that comes with rules about what you can burn. The best way to check is through your local council’s website or by contacting their Environmental Health department. Following the rules not only keeps you compliant but also helps reduce air pollution and protect public health.

If in doubt, stick to approved fuels and appliances, and always burn responsibly.