Smoke control areas

Birmingham was designated as a Smoke Control Area in 1995 to improve air quality. As a result of this, residents are only allowed to burn authorised fuels in an open fireplace or an exempt appliance.

Burning coal is not permitted in Birmingham.

Ready to burn scheme

In September 2017 the Ready to Burn scheme was launched.

This scheme identifies wood fuels that have been seasoned for up to 2 years. These contain dry wood which produces fewer harmful emissions.

The Ready to Burn scheme is supported by HETAS and DEFRA.

More information, including a list of certified wood fuel producers who have achieved Ready to Burn status is available on the Ready to Burn website.

For a quick guide, view the Ready to Burn Consumer leaflet.

Air pollution

For more information, see our causes of air pollution webpages.

Page last update: 26 September 2024