York introduces new rules for wood burning stoves

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 17:02 · Archive

York is introducing new rules on wood burning stoves from November 1, with fines up to £300 for breaches.

From November 1, York will introduce a Smoke Control Area requiring open fires to use smokeless fuel and households to have Government-approved wood burning stoves. Prolonged smoke from chimneys attached to buildings for more than 15 minutes after lighting a fire will be banned, with repeat offenders facing fines up to £300.

The new rules replace various existing control orders that already covered about four-fifths of the council's administrative area. Stoves and solid fuel burning will not be banned outright, but the rules specify which appliances households can own and what they can burn. Wood must be properly dried and seasoned before burning, and people should look for the Ready to Burn logo indicating approved fuel.

City of York Council's environment spokesperson Cllr Jenny Kent said the changes would improve air quality and support better health for everyone in the city. Peter Roderick, the council's public health lead, said solid fuel burning emitted particles that harm everyone, especially children and older people. Council officials will work with households to understand the changes. Outdoor barbecues, chimineas, fire pits and bonfires are not subject to the new rules.

How it is being reported

• £300 fines for breaking new rules in York- what households should knowNew rules controlling what wood burning stoves people can have and what they can burn in York are set to come into force in days.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 27 Oct, 16:00
• £300 fines for breaking new rules in York- what households should knowNew rules controlling what wood burning stoves people can have and what they can burn in York are set to come into force in days.The Press (York) · 27 Oct, 16:00

In this story: York · City of York Council · Jenny Kent · Peter Roderick

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log