Bonfires

Contrary to popular belief, there are no specific times of the day when bonfires may or may not be lit.  Simplified, the law says that no one may have a bonfire if the smoke from it will cause a nuisance to other people. If someone does cause a nuisance proceedings may be taken and the person can be fined up to £5000.

It is unnecessary for most people to have bonfires.  Household waste and recyclable materials are collected.  Green bins for compostable materials are provided for the majority of the borough. 

There are four civic amenity sites across the borough. In addition to this RMBC also offer a bulky item service. 

If a bonfire is the best practical option for disposing of garden waste, the following guidelines may minimise the chance of annoying your neighbours or causing a serious nuisance. 

• Only burn dry material
• Never burn household rubbish, rubber tyres or anything containing plastic, foam or paint  
• Never use old engine oil, meths or petrol to light of encourage the fire  
• Avoid lighting a fire in unsuitable weather conditions. Smoke hangs in the air on damp still days and in the evening. If it is windy smoke may be blown into neighbour gardens and across roads
• Avoid burning at weekends and on bank holidays when people want to enjoy their gardens
• Where possible inform the neighbours of you intention to have a fire. This will give them the opportunity to shut windows, bring in washing etc
• Never leave a fire unattended or leave it to smoulder

If you're bothered by smoke then approach your neighbour to highlight the problem, they may be unaware as to the distress they are causing. If this fails, contact the Community Protection Unit who can investigate the complaint under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Last update: 29/06/2011