Bonfire smoke contains pollutants that can have damaging health effects. Bonfires often cause discomfort, inconvenience and bad feelings between neighbours.

Any bonfire is a potential safety risk and can spread to fences and garden buildings.

Report an ongoing nuisance

You can report an ongoing nuisance caused by bonfires:-

Report an ongoing nuisance
Garden waste fires

Caution should also be taken if piles of garden waste are being used for a bonfire. These can be used as a refuge by animals, especially hedgehogs.

Garden waste should be disposed of in other ways, such as:

• composting
• shredding and recycling 

We can take formal action under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 when the burning of garden waste is:

• a regular occurrence and
• a statutory nuisance is caused

If we take action against you, you could be liable for a fine of up to £5,000.