Bonfires

Saturday, 14 March 2015

LITTLE ABINGTON PARISH COUNCIL
 
Every year the Parish Council has complaints about bonfires. 
This information explains the law and gives some suggestions to help prevent a nuisance being caused.
 
Under The Environmental Protection Act 1990 offenders can be taken to court if their bonfires cause a nuisance to neighbours (i.e. have an unreasonable effect on their enjoyment of their home or garden). Fines can be as high as £20,000.  If you make a complaint, you may be asked to keep a diary of events to help investigations.
 
  • DO YOU NEED to have a bonfire? Could the waste be taken to the rubbish tip, placed in your green bin or composted?
Please note these recommendations
  • DO NOT light a bonfire when neighbours have washing drying, they are out enjoying their gardens or have windows open
  • DO NOT light bonfires one hour before dusk, or leave them burning overnight. Choose the time of day and weather conditions that will cause the least inconvenience to neighbours
  • Tell your nearest neighbours before you light a bonfire so they can be prepared for any minor inconvenience that may arise
  • DO NOT burn damp grass clippings or 'green' material as this creates thick smoke
  • DO NOT burn oily rags, rubber, plastics, or other materials that could create heavy smoke or toxic fumes
  • DO NOT leave your fire to smoulder for long periods
  • Burn material quickly in small quantities so the minimum amount of smoke is created. An incinerator makes this easier
  • Choose your site carefully, away from trees, fences and windows. Have a hose-pipe and buckets of water handy for emergencies

Last updated on 14 March 2015.

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