As freezing temperatures hit many parts of the UK, log burners have become a popular source of home heating. However, Britons are being urged to check the type of wood they're burning or risk fines of up to £1,000.
Ecologists from Arbtech.co.uk have issued an urgent reminder as the winter weather sets in across the country and log burners become a popular source of home heating. Despite 1.9 million homes in the UK now having one, many people are still using wet or inappropriate wood, which can damage stoves, release harmful pollutants that affect health, harm the environment and result in fines.
In 2021, the then-government banned the sale of house coals and wet wood in an effort to reduce emissions and promote greener alternatives, with Defra also introducing the “Ready to Burn” certification scheme. This allows consumers to easily identify woods that meet UK standards and are safe to burn, as they must have a moisture content below 20%. However, those who breach these regulations may face a hefty fine.
Many UK towns and cities are in smoke controlled areas, meaning households can only use fuels from the Defra “authorised fuels” list or a Defra-exempt stove that can burn wood cleanly.
Local authorities can issue fines starting at £175 for those who breach regulations, with penalties reaching up to £300. Using unauthorized fuel in a non-Defra-exempt appliance could result in fines of up to £1,000. And for repeat offenders, cases taken to court could lead to penalties as high as £5,000.
A spokesperson for Arbtech said: “As temperatures drop, we want to remind households with a log burner that not all wood is safe to burn.
“Using wet, treated, or inappropriate wood not only risks fines but can also damage your home.
“Regulations are in place for a reason. By choosing the right fuel, you can enjoy the warmth of a fire safely while protecting your health and the environment.”
Woods that you cannot burn, according to Arbtech, include: wet or green wood, painted, treated or varnished wood, MDF, chipboard or plywood and driftwood.
On the other hand, woods that Brits can safely burn, without the risk of any fines, are Kiln dried or seasoned hardwood such as birch, ash, apple wood, oak and beech. This is due to the low moisture content that makes these woods burn hotter, more efficiently, and for longer, while producing less smoke and creosote.
“Ready to Burn” logs are also a safe bet as they are guaranteed to have a moisture content of 20% or less.
Other great options include natural softwoods and untreated, dry branches which are properly seasoned.