Bonfires
It is a commonly held belief that byelaws to control bonfires exist in many parts of the country and that bonfires are restricted to after dusk. There are no byelaws in Elmbridge that control bonfires, or in any other Council area in the UK that we know of. Byelaws can only be created where they are approved by the relevant Government Minister and we understand that approval of byelaws to control bonfires would not be approved.
There are alternatives to burning and please note that burning waste by commercial companies is generally illegal.
How do I deal with a nuisance bonfire?
Domestic bonfire nuisance advice
Industrial and construction bonfire advice
What's wrong with having a bonfire?
Air Pollution
- Smoke is produced - especially if waste is green and damp.
- Pollutants are emitted - including particles and dioxins.
- Burning plastic, rubber, fabric or painted materials creates noxious fumes and poisonous compounds.
Health Effects
The increase in air pollution can have dangerous health effects, especially on the vulnerable, such as:
- asthmatics
- bronchitis sufferers
- people with heart conditions
- children and the elderly.
Annoyance
Smoke, ash and smell from bonfires are the subject of about 30,000 complaints to local authorities each year.
The smoke from a bonfire prevents neighbours:
- enjoying their gardens
- opening windows
- hanging out washing
- entertaining outside.
Smoke also reduces visibility in the neighbourhood and on roads.
Downloads
Garden waste collection service
Home composting
Recycling centres
