Smoke control area changes (SCA) – everything you need to know

Some cities across England, such as Oxford and Reading, have recently announced intentions to expand their smoke control areas (SCAs). HETAS wants to dispel any misinformation surrounding these plans and clear up any confusion you may have had about what you can do in a smoke control area.

You can still use your wood burner 

Even if you live in an SCA – or live in an area that will soon become an SCA – you are still allowed to use your wood burner. Log burners are not being banned and smoke control areas only restrict those burning poor-quality, unauthorised fuels or individuals with old, inefficient appliances. 

Smoke control area rules 

SCAs do not stop you from heating your home with your log burner, but there are a few rules you need to follow. 

In short, if you live in an SCA, you must not: 

• Emit smoke from a chimney 

• Buy or sell unauthorised fuel for use in a smoke control area unless it is to be used in an exempt appliance 

Emitting smoke from a chimney is not specifically defined in the legislation, but due to the high efficiency of modern appliances you will not need to worry about your chimney emitting smoke if you are burning responsibly in a modern Cleaner Choice wood burner. 

Unauthorised fuel is any fuel that is not listed on Defra’s Authorised/Certified Fuels list. Wood is an example of an unauthorised fuel – if you live in an SCA, you can only burn wood in an exempt appliance. 

An exempt appliance is any stove that has been approved by Defra for use in smoke control areas, following emissions tests. 

These rules will not change anything for many users. A modern appliance – such as a Cleaner Choice stove – burning quality, dry fuel being operated correctly is incredibly efficient and can continue to be used in SCAs. 

Am I in a smoke control area? 

You can find out if you live in a smoke control area by looking on the interactive map on Defra’s UK AIR website. 

The map is updated as any changes occur, keeping you informed of any changes in your area. Contact your local council to stay updated on any upcoming discussions or consultations. 

Can I get a log burner if I live in a smoke control area? 

You can still get a log burner installed in your home if you live in a smoke control area, but you will need to make sure it is an exempt appliance. Exempt appliances have been approved by Defra for use in SCAs, meeting emissions limits. 

All Cleaner Choice certified appliances can be used in smoke control areas. Cleaner Choice wood burners and multifuel stoves go above and beyond SCA requirements, meaning they produce 50% less emissions than the limits, giving you the assurance that you will not be fined as you safely warm your home. 

When purchasing your stove, make sure you stay vigilant and only purchase an appliance that follows regulations. The recent report of a major UK stove manufacturer facing enforcement action demonstrates that it is important to shop carefully when looking for your dream stove.  

HETAS Advice Hub 

The HETAS Advice Hub contains a range of trusted, professional advice to help you keep burning safely. 

From guidance on how to light a fire and winter safety advice, to how to keep your stove glass looking sparkling, our Advice Hub is constantly being updated with easy-to-understand guidance, helping you stay warm and avoid fines as the weather gets colder. 

Why are smoke control areas being expanded? 

Smoke control area expansions allow local councils to take into account population changes and new-build developments. When smoke control orders were made in the 1950s and 1960s, many areas of cities were less densely populated so were not considered and left outside the areas.  

Whilst populations in previously quieter areas may have increased, these households were not subject to SCA requirements as these were typically applied to more densely populated areas. Expanding SCAs or, such as in Oxford’s case, creating a citywide SCA, enables local authorities to impose fines on households in these more recently developed areas that are irresponsibly burning. 

Can I still use my wood burner in Oxford? 

Despite the recent announcements and letters being posted to homeowners announcing the city-wide expansion of Oxford’s smoke control area, you can still use your wood-burning stove in Oxford – but you must follow some rules. 

To use your wood burner in a smoke control area, you have to follow smoke control area requirements. Operating your stove correctly and safely, regularly maintaining your installation, and using high-quality fuel will make sure you don’t get fined for using your log burner this winter. 

Can I still use my wood burner in Reading?

Reading smoke control area changes are due to come into effect on 1 December 2024, but you can still use your log burner as usual after this date, providing you follow the requirements. 

Follow our wood burning top tips to keep warm and follow SCA requirements this winter. 

Can I still use my wood burner in Cambridge? 

Cambridge has recently published a report where it intends to hold a public consultation on the possibility of a smoke control area expansion. This consultation is due to take place between late-2024 and early-2025. We will keep you updated on the consultation as it progresses, and we encourage you to voice your opinion if you live in Cambridge. 

This consultation and possible SCA expansion do not stop you from using your log burner. You must follow SCA rules if you live in Cambridge’s current SCA, but following our top tips and keeping your installation well-maintained will help you keep warm and fine-free this winter. 

If in doubt, contact a professional 

If your stove isn’t operating the way it usually does – whether that is reduced heat output or smoke entering your room – you should contact your local HETAS Registrant to investigate. 

Faults with your installation, blockages in your chimney, or even incorrect operation can cause you to break SCA rules, risking a fine or – in some cases – a chimney fire. 

You may receive a fixed penalty notice if you emit smoke from your chimney whilst living in a smoke control area. Follow our top tips and explore the HETAS Advice Hub to keep burning safely and avoid any fines.