Starting this month, households across the UK could face fines of £300 if they use their chimneys, as stricter rules around Smoke Control Areas come into force.
Although many homes built before the 1990s feature chimneys, they are often unused or sealed off. However, millions of households still rely on fireplaces, using traditional fuels such as coal or wood burners to heat their homes during winter.
Under new regulations, homes located within Smoke Control Areas can be reported to local councils if their chimneys emit excessive smoke. Offenders face an initial fine of £300, with repeat violators potentially facing criminal charges.
READ ALSO: UK property market set to rebound amid mortgage rate drop expectations
Most of England now falls under these designated Smoke Control Areas, where smoke emissions are tightly regulated. The Clean Air Act 1993 allows for fines when emissions exceed acceptable levels. According to the Act, the current limit is 5 grams of smoke per hour, plus 0.5 grams per kW of heat output. This limit is expected to drop to 3 grams per hour, though a date for the change has not been confirmed.
READ ALSO: UK property market set to rebound amid mortgage rate drop expectations
Residents are urged to monitor their chimney emissions and ensure compliance to avoid fines and further penalties as the new enforcement takes effect.
