Community protection Bonfire FAQs
What shouldn't be burned?
Never burn household rubbish, old furniture, mattresses, plastic packaging, garden or household chemicals, rubber tyres, or anything containing plastic, foam or paint. Plastics, rubber and polystyrene give off dark black smoke, which is toxic and bad for the environment and for health. Try to re-use or recycle as much man-made material as possible. We also offer a bulky waste collection service.
Am I allowed to burn garden waste?
Occasional bonfires of this nature are permitted. However, if you're having large or regular bonfires please consider that:
- You might cause a disturbance to your neighbours with the smoke and smell
- If you do, we may investigate and consider action to prohibit or restrict you having bonfires
We always advise people to use a greener way to dispose of waste, such as composting or, if this isn’t possible, you can take it to a waste recycling site where green waste alternatives are available – see our recycling and rubbish webpages.
What is a smoke control area?
Many parts of the UK are smoke control areas where you can’t emit smoke from a chimney unless you’re burning an authorised fuel or using exempt appliances, eg burners or stoves. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you break the rules. Find out more about smoke control areas.
We oversee smoke control areas in Shrewsbury and Market Drayton.
Are there any smoke control areas in Shropshire?
Yes, in Shrewsbury and Market Drayton.