Domestic Bonfires

My neighbour keeps having a bonfire. The smoke fills my garden and house, what should I do?

First, try to discuss your concerns with your neighbour or write a polite letter (remember to keep a copy).
If no improvement occurs, start gathering evidence. |Download our bonfire nuisance record sheet and record incidences. Photos (digital or otherwise) are always useful.
Next, register your complaint with the Environmental Health & Licensing Division in writing, |by email or |download and complete our online form. Remember to forward a copy of any nuisance record sheets and include any relevant photos.
We will then make contact with the person being complained about and begin an investigation. If a '|statutory nuisance' is confirmed (and there must be suitable and sufficient evidence to confirm this), then an abatement notice preventing further nuisance can be served. Failure to comply with an abatement notice is a criminal offence.

Elmbridge Borough Council subscribe to |Mediation North Surrey (MNS) services to undertake mediation within the borough. By using trained mediators problems between neighbours can be explored in a safe, sensitive and confidential manner.