Pollution Control - Smoke Control Area

Under the Clean Air Act 1993, some land covered by the Basildon District Council area is in a Smoke Control Area. Check the Smoke control areas map (opens new window) to see if this applies to you.

Within both commercial and residential properties, it is an offence to emit a significant amount of smoke from a chimney and to buy and/or sell any unauthorised fuel with intent to use in a Smoke Control Area. The use of barbeques, fireplaces, pizza ovens are still permitted in Smoke Control Areas, and bonfires are allowed, as long as you are compliant with the Government rules (opens new window).

Persons found to be emitting too much smoke can face a penalty of up to £300, and a fine of up to £1,000 if you burn unauthorised fuel without using Exempt appliances (opens new window).

For more information, visit Smoke Control Areas - A practical guide (opens new window).